Isaac Collins Celebrates MLB Milestone with Family at Target Field
Target Field buzzed with excitement as the Collins family gathered to support Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Isaac Collins, a Maple Grove native, during a recent game. This marks Collins' first full season in Major League Baseball, and the atmosphere was electric.
"I just remind myself each day that this isn't here forever," Collins shared, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the moment. "You gotta take it one day at a time and soak it all in and have fun with it."
Collins' journey to the big leagues began at Creighton University, where he honed his skills before being drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the ninth round of the 2019 MLB Draft. The path to MLB was not immediate; it took years of perseverance and dedication.
At 27, Collins has made significant strides with the Brewers, boasting a batting average of .254 after a series against the Twins. His consistent performance has solidified his role in the team's lineup.
"Five-and-a-half years or so in the minor leagues. A lot of sleepless nights. A lot of questioning if this is the right path and if I should be doing something else," Collins reflected on his early career struggles. "But I just stuck with it and kept taking it one day at a time. Made the adjustments whenever they needed to be made, and it paid off."
"A lot of good memories," Collins reminisced about his football days. "Definitely would not be here without those moments. Coach [Matt] Lombardi was one of the best coaches I've had. Very integral part in who I am as a person and as an athlete."
The weekend proved fruitful for Collins, who recorded four hits and three RBIs in front of a supportive crowd. However, it was a bittersweet moment for fellow 2016 Mr. Baseball finalist Matt Wallner, now with the Twins.
"We played against each other since we were 10-11 years old," Collins smiled, recalling their competitive history. "Forest Lake kid. I always remember him. He was the tallest kid on their team, and he threw gas when we were 11 years old. He's been killing it. Having a great career so far. I played Michael Busch the other day. It's always cool to see other Minneapolis kids in the big leagues."
As Collins continues to make his mark in MLB, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.
