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WCL Unveils “Legends of the WCL” Video Series

Today the West Coast League (WCL) proudly announces the launch of its captivating new video series, Legends of the West Coast League, showcasing WCL alumni who have ascended to Major League Baseball stardom. The inaugural episode highlights the inspiring journey of Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan, a notable WCL graduate currently making waves as a Gold Glove winner and dangerous slugger.

Legends of the West Coast League brings fans an exclusive look into the remarkable careers and experiences of former WCL players now excelling on the grandest stage of professional baseball. Each episode explores the pivotal role the West Coast League, one of North America’s premier collegiate summer baseball leagues, has played in shaping the careers of these rising stars.

Kwan, who batted .400 in his 2016 stint with the Corvallis Knights, is the first featured legend in this groundbreaking series. Kwan’s journey from the WCL to Major League Baseball stardom serves as a testament to the League’s 20-year commitment to developing top-tier baseball talent.

“We are thrilled to introduce Legends of the West Coast League, a series celebrating the development and achievements of our esteemed alumni,” said WCL Commissioner Rob Neyer. “Steven Kwan’s story is just the beginning. This series will showcase the league’s impact on shaping future baseball stars and highlight the exciting pathway from the WCL to the Major Leagues.”

Here is the full schedule for the entire series:

Tuesday May 7 – Steven Kwan (Corvallis Knights)
Thursday May 16 – Mitch Haniger (Corvallis Knights)
Tuesday May 21 – Phil Maton (Kelowna Falcons)
Tuesday May 28 – Shane Bieber (Cowlitz Black Bears) & Eli Morgan (Yakima Valley Pippins)
Thursday May 30 – Jarren Duran (Walla Walla Sweets)
Tuesday June 4th – Matt McLain (Bellingham Bells)
Tuesday June 11th – Kyle Manzardo (Portland Pickles)

The 2024 West Coast League Season kicks off on May 31!

Legends of the West Coast League will be available for viewing on the WCL’s website (westcoastleague.com) and all social media channels. Fans, players, and baseball enthusiasts alike are invited to celebrate the success stories of these exceptional young athletes.

For more information about the series and upcoming episodes, please visit westcoastleague.com or follow @WCLBaseball on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

About the West Coast League: The West Coast League is the West’s premier summer collegiate baseball league. Encompassing Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, and now Alberta, the WCL showcases pro prospects from major collegiate conferences around the nation. Every summer, the League features unparalleled fan and player experiences, with North America’s best baseball weather and a mix of classic and modern ballparks, all backdropped by the sport’s most stunning scenery. The 2019 MLB amateur draft began with former Corvallis Knight Adley Rutschman selected with the overall No. 1 pick by the Baltimore Orioles, and the 2022 draft featured two West Coast League alumni, Brooks Lee and Gabriel Hughes, among the first 10 picks.