Page 34 September 2016 KACHINA Quality Dry Cleaning 602-955-5540 3926 E. Indian School Road Arcadia Family Owned & Operated Since 1959 Home & Office Pickup & Delivery Available By Nick Smith In early June, Sam Huff faced a difficult decision. The former Arcadia High School catcher had an offer to play this baseball season for G rand Canyon University, where he felt a strong connection to the program and coaches. However, all of his life he’s wanted to be a professional baseball player and the major league draft was right around the corner. “It’s definitely a difficult decision,” Huf f told Arcadia News in April. “A lot of it will depend on the round I get drafted in. But it’s a hard decision for sure.” On June 8, Huff wasn’t sure where he was going. He had good communication with the Texas Rangers in the past, but also thought the Seattle Mariners might be interested. Then his phone rang. “I answered and was asked if I was ready to join the Texas Rangers,” said Huff. “My heart stopped and I couldn’t stop smiling. I’d been waiting my whole life for this chance.” Huff was drafted in the seventh round, selected by the Rangers as the 219th overall pick. He was the first Arizona high school player taken in this year’s draft. “My goal was to get drafted in the first 10 rounds,” said Huff. “And that ended up happening. I talked with my family about the choice and I decided to go with the Rangers. It was a tough decision but I was ready to get started in rookie ball.” Huff is now in Surprise, Arizona, working on his catching with coaches. He says he’s eating healthy and getting better at his game every day but admits it’s a transition being away from friends and family. “I miss my family but it’s actually been nice to meet new people,” said Huff. “I’m with a lot of guys who speak a different language, guys from the Dominican Republic. But it’s been great to get to know them because we’re bonded by our love for baseball. They’re chasing their dreams just like me.” Huff will continue working on his catching skills until the fall. Then he’ll wait for spring training. “They’re taking it slow with me and easing me in,” said Huff. “They want me to keep being a catcher, which is what I want too. I’m just excited to be one step closer to the big leagues.” Texas Rangers draft AHS Star