Former Huntingdon star to play in Texas League All-Star Game

Former Huntingdon star to play in Texas League All-Star Game

TULSA, Okla. – Former Huntingdon All-American Joseph Odom is looking forward to his first minor league All-Star Game.

Odom is one of eight Arkansas Travelers and one of two catchers on the North roster for the Texas League All-Star Game. The Double-A All-Star Game will be played on Tuesday at 7:05 p.m. (Central) at ONEOK Field in Tulsa.  

"It's huge to be picked for my first All-Star Game," Odom said. "I worked hard in the offseason, I've made big strides defensively and offensively and it feels good to be recognized.

"Going to the All-Star Game with so many teammates just makes it better. Baseball is a fun sport, especially when you're winning. It's been fun to be a part of the success we're having this year."

This is Odom's second season in the Seattle Mariners' organization after being drafted in the 13th round by the Atlanta Braves in 2013. Odom played in 75 games last season with the Travelers, Seattle's Double-A affiliate.

"I'm so proud of Odom making the All-Star Game," Huntingdon head coach D.J. Conville said. "It's great to see his hard work, determination and outstanding ability all be acknowledged. He is a first-class person and he is very deserving of this."

The Travelers lead the North Division of the Texas League with a 48-26 record and clinched the first-half championship earlier this month. Arkansas also won the first-half division championship last season.

In 49 games this season, Odom is batting .247 with 42 hits, 20 RBIs, 13 runs, two home runs and six doubles.

"It's been a really good year," Odom said. "We clinched the North side of the Division pretty early, our pitching staff has been dominant and our hitters have been coming through. This is a good team to be a part of and a good pitching staff to work with.

"Individually, my goal is to stay as consistent as possible, offensively and defensively. The main thing that separates this level from the next level is consistency. For the team, we hope to keep winning games and carry it right on into the playoffs."

Click here for more information on how to follow Tuesday's All-Star Game.