In an insightful episode of "Dodger Heads" presented by Dodger Blue.com, host Jeff Speigel welcomes a special guest, Dodgers prospect John Rooney. Rooney shares his journey from Schaghticoke, New York to becoming a promising name in the Dodgers' farm system.
Rooney excelled in both baseball and basketball at Hoosic Valley. Despite the strong inclination towards basketball, he chose to pursue baseball, recognizing his unique talent in the sport.
Rooney's transition from a high school star to a college athlete wasn't straightforward. Initially committed to Sienna, he eventually landed at Hofstra University, thanks to a chance observation by the Hofstra coach during a men's league game in Long Island. This unconventional recruitment path turned out to be a defining moment in his career.
Discussing his college years, Rooney reflects on his initial struggles and the breakthrough junior year, where he achieved the second-best ERA in the country. This dramatic improvement, he explains, stemmed from a surge in confidence and a better understanding of his game, further developed through his experience in the Cape Cod League.
Drafted by the Dodgers, Rooney's professional career had its ups and downs. A transition from starting pitching to the bullpen in 2022 marked a turning point, with Rooney embracing the change as an opportunity for growth. This shift, coupled with a revamped pitching strategy focusing on two-seamers and cutters, significantly improved his performance.
Looking forward to the 2024 season, Rooney is optimistic about making his major league debut. He appreciates the Dodgers' patient approach to his development, allowing him to evolve into a pitcher ready for high-stakes games, including potential World Series appearances.
In closing, Rooney expresses excitement about the upcoming Spring Breakout game, an all-star game featuring Dodgers prospects. Despite some uncertainty about the game's format, he is honored to participate and looks forward to showcasing his skills.
Check out his interview here!