Matthew Fisher Makes History as Philadelphia Phillies Select Indiana’s Top Baseball Prospect

A Dream Realised for Evansville’s Baseball Prodigy

Matthew Fisher made history when he was selected 221st overall in the seventh round by the Philadelphia Phillies in the Major League Baseball draft on 14 July. The Memorial High School graduate became the first Tiger chosen since 2002 and only the third in programme history to be drafted straight out of high school.

Less than a month after graduating, Fisher became the first Memorial player to earn Indiana Gatorade Player of the Year honours. The 6-foot-3, 208-pound right-handed pitcher’s fastball touches 95 mph, making him one of the most exciting prospects from the region.

Outstanding High School Performance

Fisher’s senior season demonstrated his exceptional abilities on the mound. He posted a 6-0 record with a 0.76 earned run average and 61 strikeouts and 11 walks in 36⅔ innings for Memorial, which finished 19-4 in the spring. He was rated a top 50 prospect by MLB.com and ESPN, with the former ranking him as the fifth-best prep pitcher in the country.

At his best, Fisher works at 92-93 mph and touches 95 with a high-spin fastball that features good carry with natural cut. His arsenal also includes impressive secondary pitches, demonstrating the complete package scouts seek in young talent.

A Critical Decision Awaits

The next step for Fisher is choosing professional or college baseball, as he could sign with the Phillies or report to Indiana University. The deadline for any player to sign a contract, unless they’ve exhausted their collegiate eligibility, is 30 July.

Fisher’s selection represents a significant moment for Evansville baseball. Evansville has produced only four first-round draft picks in MLB history: Tony Moretto (Harrison, 1975); Andy Benes (Central, 1988); Steve Obenchain (Memorial, 2002); Preston Mattingly (Central, 2006), making Fisher’s achievement all the more remarkable for the local community.

Looking Ahead

Whether Fisher chooses to begin his professional career immediately or develop his skills at Indiana University, his future in baseball appears exceptionally bright. His combination of physical tools, competitive success, and work ethic positions him as a player to watch in the coming years. For young athletes across Indiana, Fisher’s journey from sleeping with his baseball glove as an infant to being drafted by a Major League organisation serves as inspiration that dedication and talent can transform childhood dreams into reality.