On a stage designed for baseball’s biggest stars, a 17 year old pitcher delivered one of the most unforgettable moments of the tournament.

Brazilian pitching prospect Joseph Contreras, a high school standout from Blessed Trinity Catholic High School in Georgia and the son of former World Series champion José Contreras, stunned fans during the World Baseball Classic when he faced Team USA superstar Aaron Judge with the bases loaded.

Days before the matchup, Contreras had confidently told teammates he hoped to face Judge if the opportunity came. When Brazil found itself in a tense inning against the United States, that prediction suddenly became reality.
With the bases loaded and the crowd buzzing, the 17 year old right hander stepped onto the mound staring down one of the most feared power hitters in baseball.

Contreras attacked immediately.
On a blazing inside fastball, Judge was jammed so badly that his bat shattered on contact. The crack of the wood echoed through the stadium as fragments of the bat flew across the infield.
Judge managed to get the ball on the ground, but it was weakly hit. Brazil’s infield quickly turned an inning-ending double play, escaping the jam and sending the Brazilian dugout into celebration.

The performance only added to the rising buzz around Contreras. The Blessed Trinity ace recently helped lead the Titans to a Georgia state championship and is already committed to pitch for Vanderbilt Commodores baseball, a powerhouse program known for producing elite pitchers.

Baseball scouts have watched Contreras closely not only because of his electric arm but also because of his bloodline. His father, José Contreras, was a key pitcher for the Chicago White Sox during their championship run in the 2005 World Series.

Now, it appears the next generation is ready to make a name of its own.

Photo Creds:( The Mirror US)