WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Patrick Corbin is one of the newest Nationals at spring training in Florida.
The pitcher signed a $140 million contract in the off season after most recently pitching for the Arizona Diamondbacks.
But did you know that Corbin almost wound up not playing Major League Baseball?
When Corbin was in high school, his dad suggested he try out for the baseball team. He refused saying he’d rather just play baseball with his friends.
The Nationals pitcher was more serious at the time about basketball and football, and he was pretty good at basketball.
Corbin broke his high school’s record for most 3-point shots made in a game. He was that good.
But Corbin didn’t completely shut the door on baseball. His friends convinced him to try out for the baseball team his junior year of high school.
Corbin showed up for tryouts in jeans!
While he might not have looked the part, he definitely had the tools. He could throw a ball 80 mph in high school.
After an undefeated high school career, and two successful seasons at the junior college level, the Angels drafted the pitcher.
Corbin made his MLB debut in 2012 with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
In his first off season as a major leaguer, Corbin slept in the basement of his parents' house, and officiated youth basketball games.
The following season, Corbin made his first All-Star team.
Now he's a two-time All-Star and a key piece of the Nationals rotation.