In that seven-day span, Huntzinger went 10 straight innings without allowing a run in two starts. He surrendered just seven hits while striking out 11 opposing batters. He also only issued one walk and picked up the win in the Spinners’ season opener, defeating Tri-City 4-2.

In his next start, Huntzinger struck out four in five innings without allowing a run against the Vermont Lake Monsters.

However, as the seventh player and sixth pitcher all-time in Pendleton Heights’ program history to be drafted, Huntzinger says the thrill of his first Class-A start won’t soon fade.

“I’ve never thrown in front of 5,000 people,” he noted on throwing the home opener at LeLacheur Park. “There were people everywhere. It was a different atmosphere. It was a lot different than playing in Florida (Gulf Coast League). Finally, getting to play under the lights was like playing real baseball again. It was a lot of fun, and there was a lot of adrenaline, getting the ball for opening day. I got a chance to show what I can do.”