Grade 4 students at Gregory A. Hogan Catholic School were greeted recently by a pair of Toronto Blue Jays pitchers, including one who can throw a baseball over 100 miles-an-hour.
Nate Pearson and Jacob Waguespack were the virtual guests of honour in Ms. Jamie Laing's French Immersion class earlier this week.
“I entered a contest and won the virtual class visit,” said Ms. Laing. “I am overjoyed by the exciting and positive experience for my students. It was so much fun to see their smiling faces throughout the event!”
Students asked the players questions and took part in some physical activities and baseball skill development, led by another member of the Blue Jays organization. The students also had a chance to meet Ace, the club's mascot.
“It was really cool to meet Nate Pearson and Jacob Waguespack!” said Everett. “They were super cool and I think it was really nice that they took the time to meet with us.”
“It was so much fun!” said Liam. “I miss playing baseball so much right now, so being able to do this was awesome.”
Gregory A. Hogan Principal Daniela Mezzatesta said it was wonderful to see the pure joy on the students’ faces as they ran through the drills and exercises.
"They even danced before having some time to ask the players questions. I know this experience will live on in the students’ memories for years to come!”
Pearson, 24, appeared in five games for the Jays last year and is ranked 10th on the 2021 Top 100 MLB prospects list.
Waguespack, 27, has appeared in 27 games over the past two seasons with Toronto, sporting a record of 5-5 with an ERA of 5.08.