The ’24 Columbia Fireflies are gearing up for an exciting upcoming season. There will be a mix of new and returning faces on the field for first-year manager Jesus Azuaje when the Fireflies start the season. They’ll start on the road in Augusta to take on the GreenJackets at SRP Park for a three-game series April 5th-7th. After the quick road trip, Columbia returns to Segra Park to host the Myrtle Beach Pelicans for a six-game homestand from April 9th through the 14th.
Blake Mitchell is set for his Low-A Debut this week
Early in the year, all eyes will be on first-round pick, catcher, Blake Mitchell. The 6-1, 202 lb nineteen-year-old was selected with the eighth pick of the 2023 MLB draft. Mitchell was a highly touted prospect out of Sinton HS, and was a two-time Gatorade Texas Player of the Year (22-23). His combination of patience, power, and ability to drive in runs will surely make him an asset to the Fireflies lineup and to the organization moving forward. He is the Royals’ #1 prospect ranked and ranked #94 on Pipeline’s Top 100 list. Mitchell brings plenty of promise and possesses a strong arm behind the plate.
As a pitcher in high school, his fastball reached 97 MPH. That arm should be on display early defensively in what is usually a steal-heavy Carolina League. Mitchell’s presence on the team is sure to bolster their offense and defense, and fans should be eager to see what he can do on the field. In his senior year at Sinton HS, he batted .425 with 6 HRs and 41 RBIs in 41 games with a 1.497 OPS. In 13 games in 2023, Mitchell slashed .147/.423/.176 for ACL Royals with 17 free passes and 14 Ks. As Mitchell prepares to embark on his professional career, fans are eager to see him in action and witness the impact he will have on the franchise’s future.
Fellow 2023 draftee, Blake Wolters, will also headline the Columbia roster
Also making his debut will be Blake Wolters, the second-round pick in this past year’s draft. He was selected 44th overall. A strong spring has landed him as the Royals’ number seven prospect on the latest MLB pipelines top 30 list. The 6-4, 200 pound right-hander is 19 years old, out of Mahomet-Seymour High in Illinois. Pairing the duo of Blakes together offers a bright future. Returning infielders, Austin Charles, Lizandro Rodriguez, and Daniel Vazquez will make for a solid infield. Newcomers Jhonny Pedomo, Derlin Figueroa, and Chris Brito join the infield squad as well. Milo Rushford will join Erick Peña, Erick Torres, and Brennan McNair in the outfield. McNair has spent time at short second and third in years past, so this is an interesting move. Dionmy Salon is back behind the plate for another year as well.
The Fireflies staff have been working hard in the off-season to prepare for the upcoming season, and their dedication and determination are sure to pay off on the field. Fans can expect an exciting and competitive season from the Fireflies, with Mitchell leading the charge behind the plate. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the team, the upcoming season is sure to be one to remember in Columbia. So, mark your calendars and get ready to cheer on your ’24 Fireflies!