MLB: From West Sac to Wrigley Dreams — Freddy Rodriguez Drafted by the Chicago Cubs

West Sacramento’s own Freddy Rodriguez is headed to the big leagues—and the MainEvent.News family couldn’t be prouder.

The hard-throwing right-hander was officially selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 20th round of the 2025 MLB Draft, going 601st overall after a breakout season with the University of Hawaii Rainbow Warriors.

Rodriguez, who transferred from Cal Poly, dominated the Big West this season with a 7-2 record, 3.10 ERA, and 52 strikeouts across 52 1/3 innings. He led Hawaii with 26 appearances, earned two saves, and showcased elite control with just 16 walks.

Where he really shined? Home turf. At Les Murakami Stadium, Rodriguez was nearly untouchable—posting a 5-1 record with a 1.59 ERA, while racking up 39 strikeouts to just five walks over 34 innings. Talk about a pitcher you can count on when it matters most.

Before electrifying fans in Hawaii, Rodriguez made noise nationally as West Coast League Pitcher of the Year with the Portland Pickles, going a perfect 6-0 with a 1.02 ERA and 54 strikeouts over 44 innings last summer.

🧢 Quick Stats:

• Drafted: Round 20, Pick #601 – Chicago Cubs - July 15, 2025
• School: University of Hawaii (via Cal Poly)
• Position: RHP
• Record: 7-2 | 3.10 ERA | 52 Ks | 1.09 WHIP
• At Home: 5-1 | 1.59 ERA | 39 Ks | 34 IP
• WCL (2024): 6-0 | 1.02 ERA | 54 Ks (Portland Pickles)

🎤 MainEvent.News | Backstage Take

We’re extra fired up about this one—Freddy Rodriguez is a West Sacramento native, which makes him part of our hometown DNA here at MainEvent.News.

Watching one of our own make waves on the national stage is beyond exciting, and trust us—we’re just getting started. We’ll be following Freddy’s journey closely, bringing you clubhouse updates, behind-the-scenes insights, and exclusive conversations as his Wrigleyville chapter begins.

This isn’t just a proud day for the Rodriguez family—it’s a proud day for West Sac, the 916, and every underdog with a fastball and a dream. Congratulations, Freddy—we’ll be watching, supporting, and covering every pitch along the way.