The Arizona Fall League (AFL) provides baseball’s rising talents a platform to prove themselves, and for Kody Huff, it has brought an added layer of personal significance. The Cleveland Guardians prospect, who starred at Horizon High School in Scottsdale, Arizona, finds himself back in familiar territory. In Friday’s Arizona Fall League matchup, Huff showcased his abilities with a three-hit game and impressive defensive work, throwing out two runners on the basepaths. The game, held at Surprise Stadium, gave Huff an opportunity to play in front of family, with his grandparents in the stands to witness his performance as he helped the Saguaros secure a 10-9 victory over the Scorpions.
Baseball is woven into the fabric of the Huff family, with several members having played or worked within the sport at various levels. Kody’s father, Tim, spent two seasons in the Blue Jays’ minor league system before transitioning to scouting, where he has since served as a national crosschecker for multiple Major League Baseball (MLB) clubs. The family connection doesn’t stop there; Huff’s uncle Ken played in Single-A for affiliates of the Twins and Diamondbacks, while his uncle Kevin had a distinguished career at the University of Arizona. Baseball excellence is also embedded in the culture at Horizon High School, where Huff joined a line of alumni who have gone on to reach the Major Leagues.
Huff’s exposure to the sport from a young age, thanks to his father’s career in baseball, set the stage for his own journey. “I’ve been raised around baseball my whole life,” Huff explained. “My dad’s been in professional baseball for a long time, so I got to see it from a young age and kind of find my own love for the game as I was growing up.”
Despite his potential and the attention he garnered in high school, Huff opted to put his professional aspirations on hold. Selected by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 32nd round of the 2019 MLB Draft, Huff instead honored his commitment to Stanford University, valuing the chance to grow and develop on both athletic and academic fronts.
Before stepping onto Stanford’s baseball diamond, Huff’s baseball journey took him to an unexpected place: Alaska. In a move that speaks to his determination and adaptability, Huff joined the Mat-Su Miners, a powerhouse team in the Alaskan Summer League. While the league’s rugged environment and remote location might seem unconventional for a rising baseball star, Huff viewed it as an invaluable experience. “It got me really ready for some adversity,” Huff said, reflecting on his time in Alaska. The experience not only prepared him for the challenges of college baseball but also showcased his ability to adapt and perform under different circumstances.
At Stanford, Huff continued to refine his skills, becoming a reliable player known for his versatility and baseball IQ. His time with the Cardinal allowed him to further develop his defensive skills and improve his hitting approach, solidifying his reputation as a promising catcher.
The Arizona Fall League is an ideal arena for prospects like Huff. Often described as a “graduate school” for top minor league talent, the AFL brings together promising players from every MLB organization. The league has a long history of showcasing future stars, with alumni that include Hall of Famers like Derek Jeter and Mike Piazza. For fans and scouts alike, it offers a chance to glimpse future MLB talent in a more intimate setting, often under the warm desert sun.
For Huff, the league presents an opportunity to not only showcase his skills but also to connect with his roots in Arizona. Playing in front of family and friends while representing the Guardians in the AFL adds an extra layer of motivation and pride. He knows the importance of making the most of his time in the Fall League, especially in a competitive field where every performance is closely watched by scouts and coaches.
Huff’s journey through high school, collegiate baseball, and the Arizona Fall League is a testament to his commitment and resilience. His performance in the AFL serves as a valuable opportunity to display his skills and versatility, both at the plate and behind it. As he continues his path toward the major leagues, the lessons he has learned from his family’s baseball history, his college experience, and his time in the AFL will undoubtedly serve him well.
For the Arizona Diamondbacks and other MLB teams, players like Kody Huff represent the future of the game. With a blend of talent, determination, and a deep connection to the sport, Huff’s potential is clear, and he remains a prospect to watch closely. His Arizona roots, coupled with his performance on one of baseball’s most important stages for prospects, make Huff a compelling figure as he seeks to turn his lifelong passion into a successful MLB career.
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