By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

RESERVE – In his own words, Bryton Trepagnier is living his dream.

The East St. John standout hoped his name would be called in this past week’s Major League Baseball Draft. On Thursday, it became a reality, as the right-handed fireballer was selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 41st round, at selection 1,237.

“It’s a good feeling. I was waiting for that phone call all day,” said Trepagnier by phone Thursday. “I’ve waited my whole life for this.”

Trepagnier, a signee with Bossier Parish Community College, said he was awaiting a contract offer from the Pirates organization to officially decide his next stop.

When Trepagnier began his senior season, he says he didn’t believe he would be drafted this summer. But after taking part in some pro workouts, he realized he was beginning to turn heads.

“I started gaining interest. As the year went on, I had a pretty good idea that I’d be selected,” said Trepagnier. “And this is just a dream come true.”

Ryan Sims, who coached Trepagnier in all four of his seasons at East St. John, said it’s easy to see why his star would catch the eye of those at the next level.

“He’s 6-foot-4, 18 years old, and throws it 91 miles per hour,” said Sims. “He’s got a skill set that, if he continues to progress like he has, is going to be very valuable to a team someday.”

But Sims says that Trepagnier brings more to the table than just his on field ability.

“I’m proud of him, but baseball’s just part of it,” Sims said. “To see him come here as a 14-year-old wide eyed kid and to see him become a quality young man is what I’m most proud of.

“Every coach we played against wanted him on their team. They talk about what a good, mild mannered kid he is. Someone that always has a smile on his face. He’s a quality player and person. No matter what he does, college or pro, he’s going to do well.”

Trepagnier, who is currently playing summer ball in the Hammond area (an elite squad as his “Bill Hood” team boasts four other Major League draftees) says he’s already looking forward to playing in the minors.

“Working my way up, playing on better fields and in better parks, I’m just looking forward to it all,” he said.