taylor University Pitcher Signs with Houston Astros, Cites Community as Key to Success
UPLAND, Ind. – Taylor university baseball pitcher Cade Pentecost has signed a professional contract with the Houston Astros organization, becoming the latest Trojan to pursue a career in professional baseball. Drafted in the sixth round, Pentecost’s journey to the pros was uniquely shaped by the strong community fostered within the Taylor athletic program, a factor he credits as vital to his success.
Pentecost’s story highlights a growing trend in collegiate athletics where athletes increasingly prioritize program culture and personal well-being alongside professional aspirations. Unlike many programs focused solely on preparing athletes for the next level, Taylor emphasizes building lasting relationships and a supportive environment.
“A lot of people from the outside, they see the sixth-round pick, but if I didn’t have the time after games playing tennis with my wife, I don’t know if I would’ve wanted to get drafted,” Pentecost said. He was married before his sophomore season, balancing rigorous training and competition with personal life. Observers could find him dominating on the mound with a seven-inning, 12-strikeout performance against conference rivals, then relaxing with his wife on the tennis court just hours later.
The emphasis on community at Taylor stands in contrast to the “revolving door” often found in larger athletic programs,where athletes frequently transfer in pursuit of professional opportunities,hindering the development of deep,lifelong friendships.
“From what people know about Taylor, it’s built by community,” pentecost shared.This sense of belonging was evident at his wedding, where he was flanked by his three brothers and three teammates. He reciprocated the support a few years later, standing beside his roommate at his wedding.Pentecost will now begin training at the Astros’ facilities in West Palm Beach in preparation for spring Training. Despite access to first-class facilities and a decorated coaching staff elsewhere, he anticipates returning to Taylor this fall and winter to train with his former teammates and coaches. “I’m itching to get back to school to train as all my friends are there,” he explained.This commitment to community, Pentecost’s experience demonstrates, is “the Taylor difference.”
