"I'm incredibly grateful to play professional baseball," Hinchliffe said in a release from La Salle athletics. "A year ago this was something I never thought was possible, and to be given the opportunity to play for the hometown Phillies is amazing. I can't wait to wear the Philadelphia 'P' on my chest."
The Pottsville native pieced together a breakout campaign during his senior year this season, tying the program record for saves in a season with 13. He also was recognized nationally and was named to the Golden Spikes Award and NCBWA Stopper of the Year Award watch lists at mid-season.
In 28 appearances out of the bullpen, Hinchliffe posted a 2.27 ERA to go along with a 1.29 WHIP and a .181 batting average against. His 13 saves tied him for 11th most in the nation at the D-I level.
Hinchliffe began his career with the Explorers as an outfielder but transitioned to the bullpen prior to his junior season. He was named Philadelphia Baseball Review's Reliever of the Year and also earned All-Big 5 honors.Philadelphia! You’ve given me so much over these past 4 years and I guess you’re not done with me yet. A year ago I never would have thought playing professional baseball was even possible but with the help of my family, friends, coaches, and teammates today it is. Go Phils! pic.twitter.com/Q2F6NMXfSL— Connor Нinchliffe (@hinchy0) June 7, 2019
According to Baseball Reference, Hinchliffe will be just the 15th product of La Salle to ever play professionally here in the United States. The most successful alum, based on WAR at the Major League level, is hurler Tom Filer who posted a 2.2 while pitching for six seasons spanning the late 1980s into the 1990s.
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