5 Players Who Went From Indy Ball to the Majors
Most professional baseball players follow the same pathway to Major League Baseball: first get drafted, then play through the minor league to eventually be called up to the majors. However, for some baseball players, the path takes a slightly different turn, with some initially entering independent baseball leagues.
These independent leagues aren’t affiliated with the MLB organization, but they provide a great way for players to continue strengthening their skills and work towards a spot on an MLB roster.
Here are some stories of popular players who spent time in Indy Ball:
Daniel Nava:
Daniel Nava went un-drafted out of Santa Clara University, then signed with the Chico Outlaws of the Golden Baseball League in 2007. While there, he was able to work on his skills and grow his abilities, leading to the Boston Red Sox purchasing his contract for just $1. In 2010, Nava had his very first MLB plate appearance, where he hit a grand slam on the first pitch he ever saw in the majors.
Nava went on to have a multi-year MLB career and became a World Series champion, which is proof that independent ball can produce everyday major league players.
Rich Hill:
In contrast to Nava, Rich Hill was a first-round pick but struggled in the majors due to injuries.
In his mid 30s, he signed with the Long Island Ducks of the Atlantic League. Through his time in Indy Ball, Hill was able to go back to the basics and strengthen his pitching skills, which helped him get noticed by MLB scouts again.
Hill became an MLB starter again and played for multiple teams, where he even made postseason starts. Hill’s story shows that Indy Ball isn’t just for prospects, but also for veterans who need to reconnect with the sport to continue giving it their all.
Jonathan Pintaro:
In a more recent case, Jonathan Pintaro was an undrafted player coming from Division II baseball and spent time with the Glacier Range Riders of the Pioneer League. With this team, he was limited in exposure and didn't have much organizational backing, so he focused on dominating hitters.
This caught the attention of the New York Mets, who decided to sign Pintaro mid-season. He quickly worked his way up through the minor leagues and joined the team's major league team.
J.C. Escarra:
J.C. Escarra was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 2017 and spent many years working his way through the minor leagues before the team released him in 2022. After no immediate offers from other teams, Escarra went to Indy Ball, where he was able to refine and improve his skills. Eventually, he caught the attention of the New York Yankees, where he signed a minor-league deal.
Escarra was able to earn a spot on their roster as their backup catcher, showing the importance of never giving up on what you want.
Jake Gatewood:
Jake Gatewood was a first-round draft pick who was projected to be a top prospect and future legend in the league. Unfortunately, injuries stalled his development, and the turnover on the team led to him leaving affiliated baseball. He joined Indy Ball in 2024, where he learned he needed to be competitive and fight for his chance to get back into the MLB. Gatewood led the Atlantic League in RBIs with over 30 home runs.
The New York Yankees signed Gatewood in 2025, with him showing off his skills in both Double-A and Triple-A, demonstrating that you can always get a second chance when you are determined to do so.
The Takeaway:
There are now 4 Indy Ball leagues that have partnered with the MLB, making the road to the majors easier for those in the independent leagues. Independent leagues are spaces for players to focus on strengthening their skills and becoming major league-ready without the pressure. Not only is it a place for rookies to be noticed, but it also acts as a second chance for veterans who are struggling to stay in the MLB.
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