Former UMaine Standout Helps Astros Reach World Series, Wins ALCS MVP

Former University of Maine Baseball standout and current Houston Astros starter Jeremy Peña has had his fair share of home run highlights this year. However, his latest just helped his squad reach the World Series.

It was an absolutely incredible blast for the youngster, who is having a mind-blowing playoff run.

Peña was named ALCS MVP after last night's win over the New York Yankees, which ended up being the clincher for the Astros. The rookie finished the four-game series with 3 home runs, 4 RBI, and an average over .350. He now finds himself headed to the World Series in just his first year on the squad.

Peña is a tremendous story to begin with. The Rhode Islander was drafted out of high school in the 39th Round of the 2015 MLB Draft by the Atlanta Braves. However, Peña opted to go to college in hopes of improving his game and chances. He would play three years in Orono and was an absolute stud.

After an exceptional run at UMaine, Peña was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2018 Draft by the Houston Astros. Three years of solid play in the minors gave him the opportunity to take over for the exiting All-Star Carlos Correa at starting shortstop. Those are quite the gigantic shoes to fill.

However, Peña performed solidly in his rookie season. He finished with a batting average of 2.53, with 22 home runs and 63 RBI. He also had one of the highlights of the year when he went yard for his first career home run as his parents were being interviewed.

Peña joins a nice list of former UMaine baseball players that have reached the Major League level. It includes Billy Swift, Mike Bordick, and Mark Rogers, just to name a few.

The Astros now face off against the Philadelphia Phillies in the World Series. We wish Jeremy the best of luck in the following round. And, if he plays like he has in the first two rounds, the Astros should be in very good shape.