Josh Naylor of the Seattle Mariners celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against the Toronto Blue Jays during Game 2 of the ALCS. Getty Images

The tryout began at Bishop Strachan Park in Thornhill in 2009, when a little guy who seemed too young showed up at the baseball diamond with his father. Article content

The kid was 12 years old. Article content Article content

Most of those at practice were 16 or older.

“He was the youngest player we ever had,” said Danny Bleiwas , then the head coach of the Ontario Blue Jays. “We weren’t sure what to do with him so we decided why not let him hit and let’s see what he’s got.

“He went in to hit against an 18-year-old pitcher. I think the kid was throwing about 75 miles per hour. It didn’t seem right to be honest. But as we’re watc

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