Rum Bunter Radio Episode 32: Meet Pittsburgh Pirates Prospect Bligh Madris

PORTLAND, ME - MAY 27: Bligh Madris #7 of the Altoona Curve looks on during the eighth inning of the game between the Portland Sea Dogs and the Altoona Curve at Hadlock Field on May 27, 2019 in Portland, Maine. (Photo by Zachary Roy/Getty Images)
PORTLAND, ME - MAY 27: Bligh Madris #7 of the Altoona Curve looks on during the eighth inning of the game between the Portland Sea Dogs and the Altoona Curve at Hadlock Field on May 27, 2019 in Portland, Maine. (Photo by Zachary Roy/Getty Images)

In this episode of Rum Bunter Radio the crew brings on Pittsburgh Pirates prospect Bligh Madris to talk about his journey, life and the game of baseball.

Born in the baseball rich desert paradise of Las Vegas, Nevada, Pittsburgh Pirates outfield prospect Bligh Madris set his goals high, aspiring to be like the guys in his area making it to the big leagues and thriving.

Receiving instruction from former major league talent, Madris had the chance to grow up training with guys like Joey Gallo.

As a late bloomer in high school, he didn’t think about the opportunity to play at the next level until Colorado Mesa, a junior college in Grand Junction, Colorado, offered him an opportunity to continue playing the game.

After breaking his hand during a bunt attempt, Madris rehabilitated appropriately and caught fire during summer ball in Kansas after his freshman year. This led to boosted confidence, and success in the season to come where Bligh emerged as one of the leaders on his team.

This led to a ninth-round selection by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2017 first year player draft. Bligh describes the draft process, and the moment when he got the call every youth baseball player dreams of.

Throughout the second half of the episode the guys discuss Madris’ time in the majors and what it is like to be a part of the Pirate organization. Madris gives his take on Double-A Altoona, and talks about why there is a sense of community at every level in the farm system.

This week of Rum Bunter Radio will feature two interviews, one with former catcher and AT&T SportsNet analyst Michael McKenry, along with Madris.

Batten down the hatches, clear the decks episode 32 of Rum Bunter Radio is here! Listen to Madris’ journey to the pros and what is to come in his future.

Schedule