Anyone familiar with Liberty Athletics knows that there is no shortage of talent produced on the mountain — but it’s always special to see some of our favorite athletes move on to shine that light in other parts of the world.
This week was pretty monumental for that, as we saw two former Flames finding themselves in the spotlight where they are now playing on some of the biggest stages in professional sports.
From Liberty Mountain to the Major Leagues
With the Toronto Blue Jays in the midst of their first World Series appearance since 1993 (a prediction I got right BTW), one player is making history as the first former Flame to play in the esteemed event.
Mason Fluharty was a relief pitcher for the Liberty University baseball team from 2020-2022, playing three seasons before being drafted by Toronto in 2022.
Fluharty bounced around playing for minor league affiliates until being called up last March where he earned his first MLB win against the Washington Nationals.
Not long after, he earned his first career save against the Los Angeles Dodgers, striking out Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani — and I’ll bet the Blue Jays are hoping to see a repeat of that in this series.
Well, that’s a relief
Fluharty’s number was called once again in September, just in time for his first postseason debut. His performance from the rubber against the Seattle Mariners helped punch the Blue Jays’ ticket to the World Series.
“Everything’s easier in the big moments. … You’re just going out there and competing to the best of your ability,” Fluharty told the MLB Network. “I’m just so thankful that it happened. Thankful I got put in the opportunity to do that. … It’s definitely a great moment in my career.”
Fluharty took the mound for Toronto in Game One of the World Series Oct. 24 where he struck out one batter in the 11-4 win.
Peter and the Pacers
Former Liberty Basketball standout Taelon Peter made his NBA debut on opening night with the Indiana Pacers Oct. 23.
The rookie saw 17 minutes of playing time where he made his first NBA bucket to add 3 points to the board for Indiana. Peter was 1-of-2 in 3-pointers for the night, but this is only the beginning for him.
Igniting Indiana
After a well-earned trip to the NBA Finals in June where the ‘Cers let their chance at their first league title slip away, Indiana is searching for a comeback this season. Though it’s far too early in the season to determine whether they have a shot at enacting their revenge, I am excited to see what Indiana’s roster does this season.
Peter has a long road ahead of him if he wants to become a consistent starter for the Pacers, but mark my words — in time, Peter will become a household name.
White is the sports editor.