THE DREAM CONTINUES



Pleasanton alumnus Matt Shannon is another step closer to reaching the major leagues.

The Toronto Blue Jays selected the Angelo State pitcher in the 12th round of the MLB Draft on Wednesday.

“It was just incredible,” Shannon said. “There’s no words to explain it unless you go through it yourself…It was unbelievable hearing my named called.”

Shannon, who graduated from Pleasanton High School in 2014, credits his hometown with setting his baseball foundation.

“I really learned how to love the game and play it the right way here in Pleasanton,” he said. “[Former Eagles coach] Chris Ingram was a great guy and really taught me how to play.”

Angelo State played a significant role in his development as well, Shannon said.

“The head coach out there, Kevin Brooks, he really knows how to push people,” he said. “He was a big part. Of course, our pitching coach, Travis Lawler, he showed me everything. My best friend Graylon [Brown] really taught me how to pitch too.”

The right hander said he will forgo his senior season and sign with the Blue Jays organization.

Shannon left for Florida on Friday to begin his new journey in the minors. He will train in Florida until next week before heading to Canada.

Shannon will be assigned to the Vancouver Canadians, the Blue Jays’ Class A Short Season team.

“It’s just a small-town dream that a lot of people have and not a lot of people get to fulfill,” Shannon said. “I’m thankful it was me.”

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