Dunedin Blue Jays Pitcher Austin Kates Plays Baseball in Honor of His Late Father

Austin Kates' Baseball Journey

• ⚾ Austin Kates is a pitcher for the Dunedin Blue Jays, experiencing his first year as a professional baseball player.
• 👨‍👧‍👦 He credits his family's support as a crucial factor in his success, though he deeply misses his father.

Remembering His Father, Roger

• 💔 Austin's father, Roger, passed away three years ago while Austin was in college, a significant loss that deeply affected him.
• 💬 He recalls his father as a constant source of advice and encouragement, always there to lift his spirits.

A Special Father-Son Connection on the Field

• 🌟 In Austin's first home game after his father's passing, he hit a home run and felt his dad's presence, a key moment he cherishes.
• ☁️ When facing challenges, Austin looks up, finding comfort and support in the belief that his father is watching over him.
• 🧤 He feels his father's presence most strongly when pitching, dedicating his efforts to pitching for Roger.

Dedication and Pride

• 💪 Austin intends to dedicate the rest of his baseball career and his life to his dad, knowing he is still watching and proud.
• 📈 He is having a successful start to his professional baseball career, ranking third on the team in strikeouts and innings pitched.