Mick Abel Bio
McLean Stine “Mick” Abel is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Minnesota Twins of Major League Baseball (MLB). He has previously played in MLB for the Philadelphia Phillies. Abel was selected by the Phillies in the first round with the 15th overall pick of the 2020 MLB draft and made his MLB debut in 2025.
Early Life and Background
Mick Abel was born on August 18, 2001, in Cedar Mill, Oregon, USA. Growing up, he showed a strong interest in baseball, participating in local leagues and helping his Cedar Mill Little League team secure a state title. Abel attended Jesuit High School, where he excelled as both a first baseman and a starting pitcher. His sophomore season was marred by an injury to his non-throwing shoulder, which required surgery and limited his playtime. Despite this setback, he rebounded in his junior year, achieving a remarkable 10-0 record with a 1.26 earned run average (ERA) and striking out 111 batters over 72.1 innings pitched. He also contributed offensively, batting .294 with 12 runs scored and 14 runs batted in (RBIs), leading his team to a state championship. His outstanding performance earned him the title of Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year and recognition as a Junior All-American by MaxPreps.
Path to Baseball
As he entered his senior year in 2020, Mick Abel was named a preseason All-American by both MaxPreps and Baseball America, solidifying his status as a top prospect for the upcoming MLB draft. He was ranked as the fourth-best collegiate prospect in the nation and had committed to play at Oregon State University after his freshman year of high school. Although the 2020 season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Abel continued to garner accolades, being named the Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year once again. His impressive high school career set the stage for his entry into professional baseball.
Mick Abel Career
Early Career (2021-2024)
Mick Abel began his professional career in 2021 with the Low-A Clearwater Threshers, where he made 14 starts, finishing with a 1-3 record and a 4.43 ERA. He faced challenges during the season due to a shoulder injury but managed to strike out 66 batters over 44.2 innings. In 2022, he was promoted to the Jersey Shore BlueClaws of the High-A South Atlantic League, where he had a solid season, posting a 7-8 record with a 4.01 ERA and 103 strikeouts over 18 starts. His performance earned him a promotion to the Reading Fightin Phils of the Double-A Eastern League. Abel made a strong impression in his Double-A debut, allowing only two runs and striking out eight batters in six innings. In 2024, he played for the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs, where he struggled with a 3-12 record and a 6.46 ERA, leading the league in losses. Despite these challenges, he was added to the Phillies’ 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 draft.
Breakthrough (2025)
Mick Abel’s breakthrough came when he made his major league debut as the starting pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies against the Pittsburgh Pirates on May 18, 2025. In a remarkable performance, he threw six scoreless innings, striking out nine batters without issuing a walk. This performance tied him with Curt Simmons for the most strikeouts in an MLB debut by a Phillies pitcher since at least 1901. Over his six starts for the Phillies, Abel posted a 2-2 record with a 5.04 ERA and 21 strikeouts across 25 innings.
Notable Works and Milestones
Abel’s signature moment came during his MLB debut, showcasing his potential as a formidable pitcher in the league. His early achievements, including being the highest-selected high school pitcher for the Phillies since 2001, highlight his promising career trajectory.
Mick Abel Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Mick Abel has received recognition for his performances, including being named the Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year multiple times during his high school career.
Mick Abel Awards Won
Mick Abel’s notable achievements include winning the International League Pitcher of the Year Award in 2025, reflecting his growth and potential as a professional pitcher.
Mick Abel Family
Information regarding Mick Abel’s family is currently not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about Mick Abel’s personal life, including relationships or children, are not publicly disclosed at this time.