Northwestern Alum Ruchim Begins Pro Career With Boomers
SCHAUMBURG, Ill. — The two-time defending Frontier League Champion Schaumburg Boomers, presented by Wintrust Community Banks, announced the signing of Kyle Ruchim June 25, prior to that night’s game against the Joliet Slammers.
Ruchim, 22, made his professional debut that night and registered a single in his first Frontier League at-bat. Later, he also notched a 2-RBI double which sparked a Boomers rally in the middle innings.
It was certainly a shock for the rookie, being told he would be starting in left field two hours before first pitch. He immediately notified his dad, and brought his family from nearby Buffalo Grove to witness his first start in a Boomers uniform.
“It’s always nice to have the support of my family at the games and to be close to home. It’s just a comfort zone for me,” Ruchim explained. “I might have had about 10 family members actually come out to that first game.”
The successful debut was validating for Ruchim, who joined the Boomers after shoulder surgery forced him off the mound and into the field with the Wildcats. The long rehabilitation process cost Ruchim his entire 2014 season, but taught him patience and gave the young prospect a further appreciation for the game.
Ruchim ended his collegiate career with a .325 batting average and six home runs while pitching, playing outfield, and also seeing time as an infielder. He was drafted in the 39th round of the 2014 MLB Amateur Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals as a second baseman.
“I was very surprised (to not be re-drafted),” Ruchim said. “I had been talking to some clubs throughout the year. I think a lot of teams were a little concerned with my shoulder surgery I did have in 2014 but that’s why I’m here. I’m here to play some ball and hopefully get picked up.”
The Boomers (16-23) return to Boomers Stadium June 30 for a three game weekday series against the Frontier Greys before welcoming the Evansville Otters to Boomers Stadium for a 4th of July weekend set. Ensure your place in the fun by calling (847) 461-3695 (FOWL). All games can again be heard on AM 1410 WRMN with the voice of the Boomers, Tim Calderwood. Broadcasts begin with a 15-minute online only highlight show followed by a 15-minute pre-game radio show.
More Info: The 2013 & 2014 Frontier League Champions and 2013 Organization of the Year, the Schaumburg Boomers are an independent professional baseball franchise based in Schaumburg, Ill. The Boomers have captured the back-to-back titles for the Village of Schaumburg and for team owners’ Chicago Personal Injury Attorney Patrick A Salvi and his wife, Lindy Salvi. The Boomers specialize in providing fun, affordable family entertainment and will be hosting the 2015 Frontier League All-Star Game on July 15th. For more information, visit www.boomersbaseball.com.
