Three College Offers. Two Cy Young Winners.

Last Saturday, I had the opportunity to attend the Baseball Writers’ Association of America’s annual awards gala - a night dedicated to honoring the very best performers from the previous MLB season. The room was filled with legends of the game, media members, and players whose names are etched into baseball history. Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani were celebrated as MVPs. Paul Skenes and Tarik Skubal took home the Cy Young Awards. It was a reminder of just how elite the highest level of baseball truly is.

At first glance, Judge and Ohtani feel like obvious success stories. They look like superstars. Their size, talent, and hype made it easy for the baseball world to envision greatness early on. But the same cannot be said for Skenes and Skubal - now widely considered the two best pitchers in the game.

Combined, Paul Skenes and Tarik Skubal received just three college offers out of high school. Three. Skenes had two opportunities. Skubal had one. That’s it. Let that sink in.

Today, they’re recognized as the best pitchers on the planet. That contrast is a powerful reminder for every athlete, student, creator, or dreamer who feels overlooked. Not everyone blooms on the same timeline. Not everyone gets the early validation. And not everyone’s path is obvious to scouts, coaches, or decision makers.

Being a late bloomer does not mean you’re behind.

Being underestimated does not mean you lack potential.

And hearing “no,” “not yet,” or “we’ll pass” does not mean the story is over.

For Skenes and Skubal, only a handful of people were willing to take a chance on them. But they took a bigger chance on themselves. They showed up. They worked. They trusted the process when there was no spotlight and no guarantees.

During his acceptance speech, Paul Skenes captured that journey perfectly:

“No matter where you come from, no matter how long the road feels, no matter how many times you hear ‘not yet’ or ‘not possible,’ keep going. Bet on your work, trust the process, and don’t let anyone else define your ceiling. I’m here right now because I don’t understand the word ‘can’t.’”

That’s not just a quote for pitchers. That’s a message for anyone grinding in obscurity, waiting for their opportunity.

Your ceiling is not determined by how many offers you have.

Your future is not dictated by early opinions.

And your calling doesn’t require universal belief - just relentless commitment.

Keep going. The work will speak.

Thank you for checking out this edition of the Big League Perspective Newsletter! Be sure to share with a friend, teammate, or kid who may benefit! In the meantime, be sure to connect on social media @billythebatboy. 🙌