Yes, Ross Atkins did play baseball at both the high school and collegiate levels, demonstrating a significant history with the sport before his career in baseball management.
Early Baseball Journey
Ross Atkins cultivated his baseball skills as a pitcher during his formative years. He played for Coral Gables Senior High School in Coral Gables, Florida, a city located adjacent to Miami. His talent on the mound was evident early in his development.
Collegiate Career and MLB Draft Experience
After graduating from high school in 1991, Atkins continued his athletic and academic pursuits at Wake Forest University, where he consistently served as a pitcher. His performance at the collegiate level drew attention from professional organizations, leading to his selection in the Major League Baseball draft.
The table below summarizes key aspects of his playing career:
| Level / Event | Institution / Team | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| High School | Coral Gables Senior High School | Pitcher | Played in Coral Gables, Florida |
| College | Wake Forest University | Pitcher | Attended after 1991 high school graduation |
| MLB Draft | Florida Marlins (1994) | Drafted Player | Selected in the 69th round; did not sign a professional contract |
Although he was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the 69th round of the 1994 Major League Baseball draft, Atkins ultimately did not sign with the team. This decision marked the conclusion of his active playing career at the professional level, but his extensive background as a pitcher provided him with invaluable firsthand insight into the game, laying the foundation for his future executive roles within baseball.
