Sun Oct 06 03:32:00 UTC 2024: ## Bendigo Baseball Prodigy Wins MVP and Rookie of the Year in Debut Season
Callum Bolton, a 17-year-old pitcher for the Strathfieldsaye Dodgers, has achieved an unprecedented feat in the Bendigo Baseball Association, winning both the Division 1A MVP and Rookie of the Year awards in his first full season. Bolton, who only took up baseball in 2021 after giving up football due to foot injuries, has quickly made his mark on the sport.
His impressive rookie season, which included standout performances like shutout games against Falcons and East Bendigo, helped the Dodgers secure the Division 1A Grand Final title, defeating the Falcons 2-0. Bolton credits his success to the support of his teammates and coaches, particularly Lachie Dennis and Brett Ritchie.
Bolton’s love for baseball stems from his enjoyment of bat-and-ball sports, and he relishes the challenge and constant action of the game. “It’s not like cricket where you can get clean ripped first ball and that’s it,” he said. “In baseball, you always have another chance, and no matter where you are on the field, you’re always in the game.”
Following his outstanding season, Bolton will be playing Summer League with Essendon, aiming to further his baseball career. His ultimate goal is to earn a scholarship to play at an American college, a dream he hopes to achieve with hard work and dedication.
First Piper 