Portsmouth's Ryan Minckler begins professional baseball career with Washington Nationals

WEST PALM BEACH, Florida - Ryan Minckler's dream came true last Tuesday when he was drafted by the Washington Nationals in the 19th round of the 2024 MLB First-Year Player Draft.

More: Portsmouth grad Ryan Minckler picked by Washington Nationals in MLB draft, plans to sign

Six days later, Minckler, a 2021 graduate of Portsmouth High School, put ink to paper at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches and officially joined the Washington Nationals in a ceremony at the organization's Spring Training complex.

"I think that was the moment that it all kind of hit me, that this is really happening," Minckler said of Monday's signing. "It was honestly surreal. It was something that makes it completely official. "It was insane to put my signature down on that piece of paper and have this officially begin."

Minckler was joined by his parents, Andy and Rin, and Nationals officials at Monday's signing.

Minckler will remain in Florida for a development camp "for at least the next couple of weeks," and was told there's the possibility, for him to move up the minor league system as the summer continues.

"Depending on how I'm throwing down here, and how my arm is, there's a chance ... to get to High-A (Wilmington)," Minckler said.

Minckler made three starts with the Sanford Mainers of the New England Collegiate Baseball League this summer. He struck out 18 over 14 innings, and allowed five earned runs on seven hits. After beginning his collegiate career at the University of Virginia, Minckler pitched the last two years at Niagara University. This season with Niagara, Minckler had a record of 5-2 with 53 strikeouts over 51 1/3 innings.

Minckler hit the transfer portal after the college season ended when Niagara head coach announced he was leaving the school and becoming the next head coach at William and Mary. Minckler, on June 30, committed to Arizona State University; 16 days later he was selected by the Nationals and decided to forgo his final two years of college eligibility to begin his professional career.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Portsmouth's Ryan Minckler begins professional baseball career with Washington Nationals