Elon University's baseball program has a rich history of producing talented players who go on to excel at the professional level. Two such standouts are Ty Adcock and Cam Devanney, who recently returned to their alma mater to reconnect with the current Phoenix squad and share their experiences navigating the minor leagues.

Chasing the Dream: Adcock and Devanney's Path to the Pros

Collegiate Dominance and the MLB Draft

Cam Devanney and Ty Adcock were key contributors to Elon's 2019 CAA regular season championship team, a memorable year that saw them both get drafted into the MLB. Devanney was selected in the 15th round by the Milwaukee Brewers, while Adcock went in the 8th round to the Seattle Mariners. Their collegiate success and professional aspirations were evident even then, as they returned to campus that October to visit the coaching staff and current players, eager to relive their glory days and impart their wisdom.

Overcoming Adversity in the Minors

The transition to professional baseball has not been without its challenges for Adcock and Devanney. Adcock faced early setbacks, battling shoulder and elbow injuries that led to stints on the injured list and even Tommy John surgery. The COVID-19 pandemic also forced him to sit out the 2020 season. However, Adcock's unwavering dedication and determination have paid off, as he made his MLB debut with the Mariners in 2023 and has since spent time with the Tigers and Mets organizations.Devanney's journey has been a steady climb through the Brewers and Royals farm systems. After a breakout 2022 season with the Biloxi Shuckers, he earned a promotion to the Triple-A Nashville Sounds and was later traded to the Kansas City Royals. His power has continued to be on full display, as he led the Omaha Storm Chasers in home runs and RBIs in 2023.

Representing the Red, White, and Blue

One of the highlights of Devanney's professional career thus far has been his selection to the USA Baseball team for the Premier12 tournament. This opportunity to don the Team USA uniform and compete on the international stage is a testament to his hard work and the recognition of his talents by the national program.

Giving Back to the Next Generation

Despite their focus on their own professional aspirations, Adcock and Devanney have not forgotten their roots at Elon. During their recent visit, they made a point to connect with the current Phoenix squad, offering advice, sharing their experiences, and even participating in practice. This mentorship role is invaluable for the young players, who can learn from the successes and challenges faced by their predecessors.Adcock, in particular, has embraced the opportunity to give back, spending time in the bullpen and imparting his knowledge to the pitchers. Both players understand the importance of supporting the next generation of Elon baseball players, as they once looked up to the alumni who came before them.

Cherishing the Elon Experience

As Adcock and Devanney continue to navigate the ups and downs of professional baseball, they fondly reflect on their time at Elon and the memories they created. They emphasize the importance of embracing every moment and not taking the college experience for granted, as it is a unique and special time that can never be replicated.The camaraderie, the team-oriented environment, and the opportunity to play alongside talented teammates are all aspects of their Elon days that Adcock and Devanney cherish. Their advice to the current Phoenix players is to savor the journey and make the most of their time on campus, as these experiences will shape their future both on and off the field.