The Dodgers love drafting young prospects who have multi-sport backgrounds, bloodlines that link to high levels of baseball, and a skill set that translates into versatility, especially when it’s combined with a plus amount of athletic ability. As a matter of fact, I might be going out on a limb here, but I would have to think all organizations are looking for those types of prospects. In other words, they’re all looking for the next Cameron Decker, a prospect in the Dodgers organization who has all of the above.
Decker was drafted by the Dodgers in the 18th Round of the 2022 Draft and is starting to show just how exciting his potential is.
He was considered the “Barry Bonds” of High School baseball back in Indiana because no team wanted to throw to him knowing the type of damage he was capable of. In fact, to begin his Senior year at North High back in Evansville he hit 3 home runs in his first 4 at-bats, and six home runs in his first 3 games. Â
Earlier this year, on August 3rd to be exact, as a professional, Decker also had maybe the best game of any Minor Leaguer for the season of 2024, and maybe of all time. He made history by setting an all-time franchise record for RBIs in one game for the Quakes by knocking in 10 runs. He knocked in those 10 runs by pounding out 6 hits, including 3 doubles and a home run. When it was all said and done, he had 12 total bases and had set a Quakes franchise record for RBIs in a single game.
It’s a memory he will never forget
It was a fun day, for sure, and I think however long I play this game, I’m gonna remember that night forever. Having Kendall in front of me, and doing what he was doing was cool, but it wasn’t really in my mind, it was just kind of another game where I was trying to have good at-bats.Â
By the last one I kind of just blacked out at that point, but it’s really a credit to my teammates as well to be able to have that many opportunities with runners on base.
If you can’t tell, Decker is extremely humble and is always quick to praise his teammates and those around him. He learned that from the folks he grew up around, those who have a history in this game, one that makes you either humble or about to be humbled.
Approach
Decker has “light-tower” power, and it’s very impressive, but his approach is equally as impressive. Typically speaking the Indiana youngster is very good at staying up the middle and using the big part of the field, and that should work to gathering hits beyond just hitting majestic home runs.Â
Here’s what he said about his approach and where he learned it.
Going into my Senior Year I was really comfortable with where my swing was at, so I was like, how can I get the most out of my approach, and what do I need to do with each at-bat?Â
Honestly, I had to think right field foul pole because of the arms are like 80, and it’s rare when they get to the 90s. So I think having that approach keeps me in the zone for a longer period of time, so I’m better able to stay on the off-speed pitches.Â
Background
Decker was fortunate to learn from some folks very close to him who had a lot of experience with baseball and high-level competitive athletics. They taught him a great perspective, and, above all, how to be a good person.
My grandpa played in the Reds system with Pete Rose and was roommates with him in Spring Training, so I’ve heard a lot of Pete Rose stories. So, really, him sharing the way that he played the game motivated me to realize how I need to handle my business when it comes to the game of baseball.
Having a good support system has really helped, and obviously my dad has done so much for me, and he was a great player too, and he’s pushed me and motivated me. I also had a cousin who was drafted by the Cubs, Jeff Goldbach, so having that type of experience around makes all of this easier.
Turning Pro
Decker had committed to the University of Central Florida (UCF), to play baseball, and was actually already on campus when he was drafted. So, having already settled into such a great place of Orlando, Florida, it was going to take an offer that was simply too good to resist. And, that’s what he got when the Dodgers drafted the talented young Decker in the 18th Round of the 2022 Draft.Â
I went the route with no agent, so it was just my dad and I. I knew I wasn’t going to be a Day 1 or 2 guy, but I had a pretty good idea that I might go on Day 3. I got that call from Mitch Schulewitz, who is the Area scout, and it was super exciting.Â
In Case You’re Wondering
You might be wondering why you’re just now hearing of Cameron Decker and his immense talent in the Dodgers organization. That would be because of setbacks, which are hopefully all in the past. The talented youngster got his feet wet in 2022 after being drafted, but then hurt his hand in 2023 which forced him to miss all but 69 at-bats of that season. It was frustrating for him, but it did give him the chance to gain a great perspective and appreciation for his opportunity.Â
The rehab process plus the perspective he had gained set him up for a great season in 2024, something which he had.Â
Positional Versatility
Decker played a lot of 1st base this past season, and outfield as well, but he grew up playing shortstop and was a successful athlete in multiple sports. So, he has the athletic ability to become very versatile in terms of the possibilities of where he could play defensively. That will surely give the organization a better chance to find places for him to play and to continue to find the best ways to maximize his offense.
Here’s what he had to say about his defensive versatility.
I think being versatile is a good thing, for sure being able to play multiple positions like someone like Chris Taylor. Growing up playing shortstop, basketball, and football I always felt like I was an athlete, so being able to move around really helped me.Â
Growing up playing shortstop, even though I might not play it in the future, I think was necessary for me to be the best baseball player I could be. And, whatever gets my bat in the lineup is what I want to do.
Moving Forward
Put Cameron Decker in your Rolodex, and put him in whichever part of it you choose, because this dude has “serious” talent. He has a multiple sports background, baseball bloodlines, a humble perspective and a quiet confidence that’s going to allow him to continue to grow.Â
I could not be more excited to watch his progress through the next couple of years.Â
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