From Independent Ball to the Majors

I spent last season working for the London Rippers, an Independent baseball team in London, Ontario, Canada. During my time with the organization, my eyes were opened to just how much talent is in the league, including former Minor Leaguers and players who haven't yet been given that big league opportunity. Caleb Thielbar spent all of 2011 pitching in the American Association Independent League with the St. Paul Saints. The Twins saw how impressive he was with the Saints--he posted a 2.54 ERA with 62 Ks over 49.2 innings pitched--and signed him before the 2012 season.

What makes this story even more impressive, however, is that Thielbar was recently called up to the show after an excellent 2012 campaign at Triple-A Rochester. He made his Major League debut this week, pitching a perfect scoreless seventh and eighth inning en route to a 5-1 loss against the Braves.

It just shows you that hard work, determination and dedication truly pays off.

Congratulations for never giving up and reaching your dreams, Caleb!