April 15, 2026
Right-handed pitcher Danny Thompson Jr. has joined High-A Vancouver for his first full season of pro ball. Thompson, who got a brief taste of pro ball last summer with Low-A Dunedin; talks about the transition between the two levels.
“It has gone smoothly. Obviously, making it to the next level is pretty cool,” said Thompson. “As far as competition and all that, it’s honestly the same thing. You go out there – I do what I do best, and I focus on the next outing after that. I’m just taking it one outing at a time. I’d say the talent is a little bit better than Low-A.”
Pitching 7 1/3 innings so far for High-A Vancouver; Thompson has racked up 11 K’s and is maintaining a WHIP of 0.68.
Working primarily as a long reliever in 2026, Thompson shares what he likes best about his role.
“I like it,” explained Thompson. “I love being in the game as long as possible to help the guys keep runs off the board. It’s like any other part of the game. By me being in the game, I’m giving us a shot to win.”
Entering pro ball with a three-pitch mix of: a 4-seam fastball, a slider, and a changeup; Thompson has also added a curveball to his repertoire over the off-season.
“I’ve added a curveball since last season. I call it a curveball, most people would probably call it a sweeper,” stated Thompson. “I think it’s developing really well. At first whenever you add a new pitch, it feels a little weird. Throughout the off-season and spring training, throwing it more, I’ve become more comfortable with it.”
Thompson feels it plays well with his other pitches, “I do feel it plays well with my other pitches,” Thompson added. “I’m focused on locating all of my pitches the best I can. Whenever I’m in the bullpen or in a game, that’s my main focus. Once I’m in a game, it’s let it fly, find the mitt, and let it do its thing.”
The righty talks about the hitters he has faced in High-A, “I’ve noticed they’re a little more aggressive,” said Thompson. “When it comes to facing anyone else, it’s sticking to the plan. I’m sticking to my strengths and competing.”
Thompson enjoyed his first spring training, “I’d say it was a little overwhelming at first, getting to the complex and seeing everyone in the organization,” stated Thompson. “It went pretty smooth, I’d say. Seeing the big leaguers there every now and then was pretty cool to see. A lot of first time things for me but overall it was pretty cool.”
If Thompson continues to pitch well, he might get the bump up to Double-A New Hampshire before the end of the season.
“I’m hoping to get to another level maybe Double-A before the season wraps up,” Thompson added. “My main focus is putting as many zeros as possible up on the board.”
Be sure to follow Danny Thompson Jr. as he continues to put up zeros in 2026.