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Blue Jays Select Sickles' Wilson

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By ADAM ADKINS

The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 6, 2008

TAMPA - Kenny Wilson has never been to Canada. If things shake out the right way, the Sickles High product's first trip to the United States' neighbor to the north could be for something really special: his Major League Baseball debut.

The Toronto Blue Jays selected Wilson in the second round of Thursday's amateur draft, spending the 63rd overall pick to scoop up the speedy outfielder.

"Growing up, this has always been my dream. Ever since I was 2 years old, I wanted to play professional baseball. Now, I've been given the opportunity to fulfill that dream, and I just feel so blessed and lucky to be given this opportunity," said Wilson, the only local player selected during Thursday's first six rounds.

"Getting that phone call was beautiful."

Wilson was a Tribune All-Hillsborough County first-team selection this season after hitting .400 with eight doubles, two homers, 14 RBIs, 37 runs scored and 26 stolen bases. He also was selected as a Florida Athletic Coaches Association all-star and helped the West team to the 30th annual FACA Baseball Classic title, scoring four runs in the championship game May 24 in Sebring.

Wilson signed a baseball scholarship with the University of Florida during spring break, but he said Thursday "it's all but a done deal" that he would forgo his college eligibility and sign with the Blue Jays.

Wilson said he would accept the slot recommendation signing bonus for the 63rd overall pick, which he said was $644,000.

"I never thought something this great could happen to me," Wilson said.

Soon, Wilson will turn his attention toward making the climb through Toronto's farm system, which could begin with a minor-league stint with the Dunedin-based Gulf Coast League Blue Jays, he said.

Wherever the start, Wilson is just thankful to have the opportunity.

"I worked really hard to get where I am," Wilson said. "Hard work, a little bit of luck and dedication will take you a long way."

Reporter Adam Adkins can be reached at (813) 657-4533 or aadkins@tampatrib.com.

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