A Melbourne teenager has signed a lucrative professional contract with the Yankees that will make him a millionaire before he can legally drive.
Brandon Stenhouse, 17, has realized a childhood dream, inking a six-figure deal with the Bronx Bombers. The right-hander could go from suburban pitcher to global star after signing the deal this week with American scouts who flew to Australia to see him play.
“It’s still sinking in and I was a bit nervous signing the contract but it is a dream come true,” he said. “I was never sure it was going to happen.”
Stenhouse started playing tee-ball at 4 years old and caught the eye of scouts in the past two years by consistently clocking pitching speeds approaching 93 mph. With at least two other MLB clubs circling, Yankees scouts gave Stenhouse his ticket to the big time on Monday along with an educational scholarship and a bag of merchandise including the club’s famous cap.
Proud dad Dave Stenhouse said the sky was the limit.
“It’s a good opportunity, but I don’t think it will hit him until he gets over there,” he said.
“He got a big bag full of stuff which I think made him the happiest, and mum and dad are happy too since we don’t have to pay for anything anymore.”
Stenhouse will report to Yankees spring training camp in Florida in April for two weeks of orientation before returning to Melbourne to complete his high school final exams. He will then move to the United States full-time to live his dream. The teen sensation, who plays in the Victorian league for Cheltenham Rustlers, was signed by the Yankees after a standout performance at the Under 18 National championships in Canberra.
Yankees Australian scout John Wadsworth said the young arm would be given “every opportunity” to become a star.
“I have been waiting for many years to see if Brandon Stenhouse had the physical and mental makeup to be considered as a possible Yankee,” he said.
“I am pleased to see just how far this young man has progressed and his future is exciting to us all.”
Stenhouse will join fellow Victorian player Adam Silva on the Yankees’ books this year.
This article originally appeared on News.com.au.