Windeler Selected by the Twins

Toronto, ON — Toronto Mets Alumni, and current UBC left handed pitcher, Niall Windeler was chosen by the Minnesota Twins in the 19th round of the 2019 Major League Baseball Draft on Wednesday afternoon.
 
 

The Toronto Ontario native has enjoyed a magical 2019 season. The 6’4 210 Lefty was nothing short of dominant all season. April 20, 2019, Windeler threw the first nine inning no hitter in program history. After a solid Post Season run, he was named the NAIA West Pitcher of the Year, to go along with an All-NAIA West All-Star team selection. Windeler is very quick to give credit to his Coach Chris Pritchett. “He is very knowledgeable, and he helped me figure out everything. He’s the biggest reason I went to UBC,” says Windeler. 

After a successful 2019 season it is not surprising to see his name called on Draft day according to his Toronto Mets Pitching Coach Chris Kemlo. “He was always working, always wanted to get better, always wanted to talk pitching,” says Kemlo. “He was a bulldog and big game pitcher with us (Toronto Mets). He enjoyed his craft and enjoyed being on the mound. He attacked and went after guys and was someone you felt comfortable giving the ball to in any situation. Even if he thought he was Kevin Durant off the field at times,” Kemlo says with a laugh.

On Draft day Niall was very fortunate to have great company. “I was watching the draft tracker on my computer when I got the call, they (Minnesota Twins) were going to take me. I watched the selection with my dad,” Windeler explained. Windeler understands that this accomplishment was not done on his own. “The first people that came to mind were my parents, Windeler explains, they have given me everything and have been with me every step of the way.”

Before the Major League Baseball Draft, before UBC, and before the Toronto Mets, Niall Windeler was a member of the North York Blues and Etobicoke Rangers Organization. He hasn’t forgot about playing the game when he was younger. “My favourite moment playing baseball as a kid was winning the Nationals (Baseball Canada) as a member of Team Ontario with my North York Blues teammates.” 

Niall is now at the beginning of a brand-new baseball journey for himself, a journey that the Toronto Mets Baseball Club will be keeping a close eye on. Congratulations Niall, we wish you all the best.

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