Let’s talk about a name you probably haven’t heard yet but might want to keep an eye on—Tyler LaPorte. The Atlanta Braves quietly added him to their minor league system, and while it might not be making headlines just yet, this could be a sneaky little move worth paying attention to.
From College Infielder to Full-Time Pitcher
LaPorte isn’t your typical minor league signing. The guy’s almost 28, which, in baseball years, isn’t exactly “prospect” territory.
But here’s where things get interesting—he’s a converted pitcher. Yep, back in his college days at Southern University, he was primarily an infielder and a good one at that.
Over two seasons, he posted an impressive .349/.389/.489 slash line and even took home SWAC Co-Player of the Year honors in 2019. But when it came to pitching? Just four appearances. That’s it.
Fast-forward a few years, and LaPorte is a full-time reliever grinding his way through the independent leagues.
The transition wasn’t exactly smooth sailing at first—like a lot of position players who try to make the switch, there was a learning curve.
But in 2023, things started clicking when he joined the Windy City Thunderbolts of the Frontier League.
A Breakout Season in 2024 Caught Braves Attention
Then, in 2024? Boom. He takes off. In 39 games, he racks up 52 strikeouts over just 35.2 innings, gives up a single home run, and locks down 13 saves as the team’s closer.
Not too shabby for a guy who wasn’t even pitching full-time a few years ago. Those numbers caught the Braves’ attention, and now he’s got a shot to prove himself in their system.
Can LaPorte Follow in Ligtenberg’s Footsteps?
Now, let’s be real. Is LaPorte the next big thing? Maybe, maybe not. But the Braves have a history of finding diamonds in the rough from the independent leagues—just look at former closer Kerry Ligtenberg.
And here’s a fun fact: If LaPorte eventually makes his way to the big leagues, he’d be the sixth former Thunderbolts player to do so.
So, while this might just be a low-risk signing for depth, it’s the kind of under-the-radar move that could turn into a great story down the line.
Keep an eye on him—if he keeps progressing like he did in 2024, we might just hear his name in Atlanta sooner.
