Jhonkensy Noel made a memorable Major League Baseball debut with an exciting first at-bat. Despite being one of many rookies to make their debuts this season, Noel’s at-bat was particularly eventful. In the second inning on Wednesday, he faced Baltimore Orioles starter Grayson Rodriguez and held off from the first pitch for ball 1. He then fouled-tipped a 97 mph fastball and lost his bat in the process. But that setback didn’t stop him from hitting a home run into the home bullpen at Camden Yards on the next pitch.
Noel finished the game 1-for-4 with the home run and two strikeouts. Although he did not have a perfect performance, his efforts were impressive, and he showed off his power as he hit 18 homers in just 65 games before being called up to the majors. According to MLB Pipeline, Noel is ranked as the No. 26 prospect in Cleveland’s system, with his power being his standout tool. The Columbus Guardian’s Triple-A team watched Noel open his MLB career with a homer during a rain delay and cheered him on every step of the way.
