Millie Schoepe-Evans, of Fairfax, and her husband James Evans are the proud grandparents of Ross Detweiler, 21, of Missouri, who signed a $2.15 million contract to play baseball for the Washington Nationals organization. As a pitcher, Detweiler averages throws of 90-95 mph.
“I don’t think that too many people experience this kind of excitement. We were just one of the lucky people to experience this,” said Evans. “To me it was a very pleasant and heartwarming surprise.”
Detweiler, 21, is a left-handed pitcher and played baseball for Missouri State University. He was the No. 6 draft pick in the first round for professional baseball. For now Detweiler will play for the Gulf Coast Nationals in Florida, the Rookie Level team in the Nationals' organization.
“He has been playing since he was a little kid, in T-ball," said Schoepe-Evans, a retired CIA officer. "There are not that many left-handed pitchers and he has always been out there playing baseball.”
Added Evans: “He just wanted to play ball. He played in high school and the scouts looked at him then, and he played for college and they looked at him."
His proud parents, Gail, 58, and Rick Detweiler, of Wentzville, Mo., have gone to every game he has ever played and helped him in any way they could.
Detweiler lived, ate, and breathed baseball, and while his grandparents weren't able to attend every game, they are happy that he has become successful.
“He is living his dream. This doesn’t happen to every family on the street, village, or even city,” said Schoepe-Evans.
In the long run what does Schoepe-Evans want for her grandson? “I hope he stays with the Nationals until he’s an old man and pursues his love. I hope he gives his total support and energy to the Nationals to make them a top team.”
Schoepe-Evans is an active member of the Slovak Society and president of the Westbrook Civic Assocation.