Former Illini hurler Cody Sedlock has probably gone through an emotional roller coaster this past week.
On May 28th, he was called up from the Norfolk Tides to the Baltimore Orioles. A day later, he made his very first appearance for the parent team. He came in relief and pitched three innings against the Boston Red Sox. He gave up five runs but did strike out three batters.
However, two days after that on May 31st, he was optioned back to AAA Norfolk. What does this mean? Sedlock remains on the Orioles’ 40-man roster but is currently removed from their 26-man active roster.
Regardless, of all that has happened, I wanted to recognize Cody’s achievement and indeed celebrate this moment. Knowing his talent and makeup (and the Orioles need for good pitching), I don’t doubt he will be back up on the active roster in no time.
Sedlock is the first former Illini to debut in the Major Leagues since Joey Gerber who joined the Seattle Mariners in 2020.
Cody came to the Illinois program highly touted as a freshman and he didn’t disappoint. Sedlock played for Illinois from 2014-2016. In those years, he put together a 10-6 record while compiling a 2.96 ERA. He struck out 175 batters in 164 1/3 innings. His junior year, he was awarded the Big Ten Pitcher of the Year based on his 5-3 record and 2.49 ERA plus a total of 116 strikeouts.
Sedlock was drafted by the Orioles in 2016 and moved up the Orioles farm system. He split time between AA and AAA in 2021 and this year he played in Norfolk AAA before being called up. The organization must have been impressed with Cody’s 35 strikeouts in 29 1/3 innings.
By the way, this feature piece done by MLB.com about Cody’s debut is worth a read.
Bear down, Cody! Hope to see you at the Camden Yards again soon!
Massey earns honors
Sedlock isn’t the only former Illini who is having some success in pro ball. Former Illini infielder Michael Massey who was just promoted to Double-A this year, just earned his second Texas League Player of the Week award while playing for the Northwest Arkansas Naturals.
After earning his 2021 Gold Glove, he is also earning his keep with the bat. Massey is now hitting .328 with 8 homers and 44 rbis.
Something tells me that it won’t be long before Massey gets promoted to Triple-A.