After striking out seven out of 15 batters, Gage Eastlick earned an invite from an Under Armour representative to attend the Under Armour Preseason All-American Tournament Jan. 19-20.

The Tournament is a showcase tournament that features the best high school players across the country. In order to be invited, a player must attend a try-out or tournament hosted by Under Armour with their team. Eastlick was recognized for his performance at the 2018 Under Armour Southwest Championship 16U in Los Angeles, and he received an invitation through his dad’s email Aug. 2.

“Both my dad and I thought that it was just another generic showcase email, but the next day I asked my travel ball coach about it. He said that there was no way that I was missing this showcase and that it’s the real deal,” Eastlick said.  

Eastlick was the only one chosen from his travel team, Sacramento Sports Center.

“Of all the Under Armour showcase events held all over the country all summer long, they chose the top 100 players from all of their tournaments. Gage was one of the best on the best,” Sacramento Sports Center assistant coach Ryan Lovering said.

The tournament was took place in Mesa, Arizona. Eastlick and his team, Pacific, competed at the Chicago Cubs’ spring training facility Jan. 19 and at the Oakland Athletics’ spring training facility Jan. 20. There were 32 teams in attendance.

Before the tournament, Eastlick had talked to a San Francisco Giants scout at his airport terminal. Additionally, scouts from the Colorado Rockies and Chicago Cubs watched Eastlick’s games.

Despite batting 0 for 5 in entire tournament, Eastlick faced 15 batters during his three innings pitched against New England and struck out seven while allowing one hit and three walks.

His dad, Mr. Rick Eastlick said, “I was excited for him and just proud of him for being recognized for his hard work on the field.”

by BLAKE WONG