Mick Abel, the former 15th overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, has moved up the Phillies prospect list and landed at #2. The 6’5″ right-hander out of Oregon has a mid-to-upper-90s command fastball with a glove game to match. Mick took some time to show off his two Nike SHADO Elite J’s from this year and answer a few questions for us.
Abel collected two super clean players in 2023. The first is an all-black two-piece that adds red trim and baby blue accents. A subtle look that blends beautifully. The second has a gray base with black binding, piping and laces. The double V mesh and red on the Swoosh/liner make for a winning combination.
Q and A
Question. Growing up in Oregon, what does it mean to be a Nike athlete?
“It means the world to me. I’ve always worn Nike growing up, so it’s a dream come true.”
Question. Do you put anything special on your gloves? (Someone’s name, date, Bible verse, etc.)
Answer: “I wrote ‘CP’ on my gloves this year. My close friend and teammate Corey Phelan passed away in the fall after battling cancer, and this is one way I can have him on the mound with me.”
Question. What’s the biggest adjustment you’ve had to make since being drafted?
Answer: “The biggest change has been my routine on the days I’m not playing. I always have to follow my routine to stay healthy and in a good place mentally.”
Question: Biggest piece of advice you would give your younger self.
“I would tell myself to control what I can control on the mound. Don’t worry about what’s out of your hands or the game will quickly fall on you.”
Be sure to show Mickey some love and give him a follow on IG! Let us know any other questions you’d like to see us ask in our Talking Gear Series below.