Twenty-two year old LHP Kevin Warunek was selected by the Phillies in the 18th round of the 2024 draft from Longwood University in Farmville,Virginia. Kevin pitched three seasons at Longwood - in his freshman campaign he was a weekend starter before becoming a valuable option out of the bullpen his final two years. In three collegiate seasons he appeared in 38 games (14 starts as a freshman) and pitched 87 innings posting 60 strikeouts and a 4.97 ERA. In 2024 he had a 2.49 ERA in 12 games (21.2 IP) with 25 strikeouts.
Kevin graduated from Patriot High School in Nokesville,Virginia where he posted a 1.19 ERA with 21 K’s over 17.2 IP his senior season and held opposing hitters to a .212 batting average.
After being drafted by the Phillies he came to the complex in Clearwater for workouts and has yet to appear in an official game. He’s been slowed by an elbow issue but has worked with the rehab team and is now back throwing regular bullpen sessions on target for upcoming minor league spring training. Kevin participated in both the Fall and Winter High Performance Camps.
I recently had a chance to ask him a few questions - here’s our interaction.
At Longwood you both started and relieved - any preference?
“I personally just want to pitch. Despite being a reliever for the last two years, I will do whatever I’m needed to do whether that be as a starter or a pen guy.”
Did you have any indication that the Phillies would draft you? How did you find out you had been drafted and what was your reaction?
“I was pretty new to the draft scene. My junior year was the year that got eyes on me. When I was drafted it was a little surreal, it’s like one of those things that’s like “oh that doesn’t happen to me that’s something you see in a movie.” I saw my name on the draft board and it didn’t settle in until I arrived with the other draft guys in Philly.”
Did you have a favorite player you rooted for or one that you tried to emulate?
“While in college, I always found myself watching left handed big leaguers; seeing what they do well and whether it was something that would work for me. One of those guys was Jose Alvarado.”
If you had a chance to meet a current Phillies major leaguer who would you most like to chat with?
“Being from northern Virginia, I watched Bryce Harper a lot with the Nationals. I think it’s pretty sweet and surreal being in the same organization with him.”
You’ve been to two High Performance Camps now - what are your impressions regarding the Phillies approach to teaching the combination of baseball, conditioning, nutrition and mental skills?
“I’d say the Phillies do an incredible job. They have amazing resources and people that are here to work with you and help achieve your goals as a professional athlete. Putting on mass was a big goal of mine and right away the dietitians gave me a game plan and I’ve seen the results. Not only for me, I’ve seen results for numerous guys at these camps. Truly phenomenal work.”
What is your pitch arsenal and what goals have you set for this coming season?
“I’m a four-seam, slider, changeup mix. A big goal of mine this season is to just show up ready to learn. First professional season there’s going to be highs and lows, but I believe keeping the headspace clean and open minded will be the key to success.”
I thank Kevin for answering my inquiries. We wish him well this season and in years to come and look forward to seeing him in game action.
Happy Day, Happy Baseball ⚾️
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