Billy Fleming’s season is in full swing.
In the month of July he’s batting .328. Fleming is the cleanup hitter for the Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees – the second highest valued sports franchise in the world – according to Forbes.
Fleming’s recent efforts have earned him the Eastern League Player of the Week.
(photo: pinstripedprospects.com)
It’s been an eventful journey for Fleming thus far. The 24-year-old Churchville, Pa., native wasn’t selected in the 2014 MLB Draft.
Never receiving that call is something that motivates Fleming to this day, but it’s his time in high school to which he credits his success. He was a two-sport athlete back at Council Rock South.
“Playing football in high school absolutely helped me get to where I am,” Fleming said.
Fleming’s high school baseball coach, Greg Young, also believes playing two sports helped.
“Billy was so much better at baseball after he started at quarterback for the football team,” Young explained. “Due to the leadership qualities he learned throughout the football season, his baseball game got taken to the next level.”
Vincent Bedesem, the Golden Hawks football coach, agreed with his fellow colleague.
“There was a connection within both sports that made Billy what he is today,” Bedesem said. “He played shortstop exactly like he played quarterback.”
At 24 years old, Fleming has already exceeded expectations since signing with the Yankees as an undrafted free agent. Fleming wants current Council Rock athletes to learn from his time at the high school.
“It’s smart not to be locked into one sport. It’s a testament to why I play so many positions now,” said Fleming, who plays all over the infield at Arm and Hammer Park. “I’m used to rolling with the punches and being uncomfortable.”