Garrett Hawkins, a promising pitcher from Biggar, Sask., has recently been included in the San Diego Padres’ 40-man roster, marking a significant step towards his dream of reaching the major leagues. This roster spot secures Hawkins an automatic invitation to the Padres’ upcoming spring training camp in Phoenix, Ariz., scheduled for February.
Having faced various challenges along his journey to professional baseball, Hawkins’ dedication and talent have not gone unnoticed. Raised in Biggar, he transitioned to playing in Saskatoon at the age of 14, where he showcased his skills in local teams. According to Jordan Draeger, owner and head coach at Going Yard Baseball Academy, Hawkins stood out not only for his physical prowess but also for his meticulous attention to pitching details.
Despite experiencing disruptions due to the pandemic during his scholarship at the University of British Columbia, Hawkins seized the opportunity to play in the MLB Draft summer league in New Jersey. Subsequently, the Padres drafted him in the ninth round of the 2021 MLB June Amateur Draft. However, Hawkins faced a setback with a pitching elbow injury that required Tommy John surgery in 2023, followed by a year-long recovery at the Padres’ training facility in Arizona.
Returning to the field post-surgery, Hawkins transitioned from a starting pitcher to a reliever, a move that proved successful. His impressive performances in the minor leagues led to him being named the Padres’ minor league pitcher of the year and ultimately earning a spot on the 40-man major league roster. Hawkins, now focused on the upcoming spring training camp in Arizona, continues to hone his pitching skills, including his fastball, slider, and work on a splitter.
Being part of the 40-man roster not only grants Hawkins access to the big league spring training but also streamlines his path to potential call-ups from the minors. As he prepares to face big league hitters in Arizona, Hawkins remains grounded, emphasizing the importance of readiness and seizing opportunities when they arise.
Throughout the winter, Hawkins is diligently training in Saskatoon, maintaining a rigorous routine to be in peak condition for the challenges that lie ahead. With unwavering determination and a strong work ethic, Hawkins is poised to make his mark in the major leagues, staying focused on the game he loves and the distance of 60 feet six inches between the mound and home plate.