From Reading to Philly: Matt Vierling's Success

(Reading, PA) – R-Phils Opening Day center fielder Matt Vierling got the call every ballplayer dreams of this past Saturday, as the 24-year-old made his Major League Debut with the Philadelphia Phillies. He becomes just the third player this season to get the call after beginning the year in Double-A.

In the midst of a west coast road trip, Philadelphia selected the contract of Vierling and gave him his first MLB at bat, which he made the most of. Pinch hitting in the 6th, Vierling slapped a single for his first hit, snagged second for his first stolen base, and then came around for his first run.

Despite the moment being so sudden, Vierling seemed to do it all with composure, as he told the writers of Phillies Nation “I don’t really like thinking too far into the future about stuff. … Just every day going out there and doing what I have to do and trying not to get too complicated and keeping it simple.”

Although there was no season in 2020, Vierling proved to be ready for his next step to start 2021, dominating in his time with Reading. He led the team in average (.345), on-base percentage (.422), slugging (.644) and OPS (1.065) in 24 games with the club, while also playing a solid outfield. Between center and right field, Vierling recorded 40 putouts and 4 assists with a perfect fielding percentage. Reliability in the outfield was especially needed from Vierling, as he was the only outfielder listed on Reading's Opening Day roster.

After spending the first month and a half of 2021 with the Fightins, the St. Louis native had a whirlwind of a week. On Tuesday, June 15, Vierling got promoted to Triple-A, and met the team in Worcester for a series against the Red Sox. In three games, Vierling transitioned easily, going five for twelve with an RBI and a walk. Then just four days later, Vierling packed his bags and met the Phillies in San Francisco.

A quick fan favorite at America’s Classic Ballpark, Matty V was always signing autographs and taking photos with fans in the plaza. His lively and positive personality shined both on the field and in the clubhouse. With a story as exciting as Vierling’s, who began the week as a Fightin and finished it as a Phillie, it just adds to the rich history of tomorrow’s stars getting their chance today with the R-Phils.

Alongside the impressive showings of Nick Maton and Luke Williams, the Phillies continue to receive meaningful production from homegrown talent, as four of the five Major League debuts for the Phillies spent time in Baseballtown.

In his first professional season, Vierling made the Phillies confident in their pick, as he hit .321 in 62 games between Lakewood and Williamsport. In 2019, he moved up to Clearwater and notched an even 100 hits in 118 games.

The Notre Dame product became the 93rd Irish player to make their MLB debut, after compiling an impressive career with the team. In 166 games in three seasons, Vierling finished his career with a .300 batting average on 194 hits, 30 doubles, 23 homeruns and 114 RBIs. This was enough to raise his draft stock from the 30th round out of high school to a 5th round pick in 2018.

The Reading Fightin Phils congratulate Matt Vierling for his successful Major League Debut and wish him the best of luck in The Show!