Kirkland is fertile ground for baseball players to begin their careers and launch themselves into the college world and beyond.

There are many locals who have notched success, and Matt Scheffler and Andy Cosgrove — both catchers — are two of the guys who have recently done great things on the diamond.

Representing both of the Kirkland high schools, Scheffler graduated from Lake Washington and participated in the College World Series with Auburn University, and Juanita’s Cosgrove was selected to play in the 2019 Can-Am League versus Frontier League All-Star Game along with three of his fellow Southern Illinois Miners.

Scheffler finished his season with 12 doubles, two homers and 28 RBIs, including a .989 fielding percentage. He nailed three hits in Auburn’s two games in the CWS in Omaha, Nebraska. At press time, Cosgrove was hitting .290 with six doubles and 11 RBIs in 24 games played during his first year with the Miners. In his 179.1 innings behind the plate, Cosgrove — who has played in the Minnesota Twins’ minor-league system — sported a 1.000 fielding percentage.

How lucky those guys are to be able to play the game they love past their prep years and onto a grander stage. Childhood dreams are coming true as they roll into each day. They’re smiling away as they pop their fist into their glove and unleash a crisp swing of their bat.

Many other Kangs and Rebels — and future high-schoolers — are feeling the same way wherever the ball bounces along their path. Little League today and who knows what is awaiting them down the line. Wedge your helmet on tight, step up to the plate and take a crack at what’s coming your way. Connect and succeed.