Can a cricket player's skills translate to the MLB? We might see in the near future.
The latest rumors indicate 12 MLB teams - the Chicago Cubs, New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates, Tampa Bay Rays, Cincinnati Reds, Texas Rangers, Houston Astros, San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres, Detroit Tigers, New York Mets and Oakland Athletics - scouted Kieran Powell, who has played international cricket for the West Indies from 2011-2014.
Adam Berry of MLB.com reported the rumblings of each team's involvement on Wednesday while David Waldstein of the New York Times initially reported Powell's interest in transitioning to baseball.
According to Waldstein, Powell has not played international cricket since June of 2014 due to a dispute with the West Indies cricket federation. While many believe that might be a reason for his interest in baseball, Powell says he's always been curious in terms of the challenge of "pursuing cricket's diamond-shaped American cousin."
Powell has been training at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla., for the past five weeks, says Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Waldstein adds the 25-year-old began a "baseball immersion program" over the summer to help begin his transition to the sport.
Is this a good idea for the teams scouting him? I mean, I'm sure it can't hurt. He's already worked out for the Mets and Brewers, so it appears as if he's gaining some traction.
As a star batsman for the West Indies, it's surely possible he can adapt to the MLB, at least on the offensive side of the ball. He's also a left-handed hitter, so there's certainly appeal if he can effectively showcase his abilities.
I mean, have you ever seen those cricket bowlers throw the ball? They take a running start, crow hop and heave that rock of a ball as fast as they can. And they throw a ton of different pitches with precision from 66 feet away.
Here's more on his potential transition to baseball:
And check out this blast from Powell during his cricket days:
