Carlsbad, N.M. – Nolan Perry, a native of Carlsbad and the #2 prospect in the Toronto Blue Jays organization, took the mound Saturday for his seventh start of the year with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, the Double‑A affiliate of the Blue Jays. The Fisher Cats faced the Hartford Yard Goats in a game that highlighted Perry’s steady climb toward a Major League debut.
Prospect ranking and recent performance
MLB.com lists Perry as Toronto’s top pitching prospect and the second‑overall prospect in the entire organization. In his latest outing, Perry emphasized a disciplined approach, saying, “I really try not to focus on the hype. I just go out there, do my job, help my team win and try to put up as many zeroes as I can.” The pitcher’s focus on control and routine has paid off, as he posted a solid line of innings pitched, strikeouts, and a low earned‑run average.
Overcoming injury and rebuilding
Perry missed most of the 2024 and 2025 seasons after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He credits the lengthy rehabilitation process with making him a stronger, more thoughtful pitcher. “It’s not just about throwing the ball as hard as I can,” he explained. “It’s about having a plan, a routine, and executing it.” The improvements in his velocity and command have boosted his confidence, and he believes the work is paying dividends this season.
Local roots and role models
Growing up in Carlsbad, Perry looks up to fellow hometown pitcher Trevor Rogers, who currently throws for the Baltimore Orioles. He also admires Hall of Fame legend Nolan Ryan, noting the shared name and Ryan’s reputation for dominance on the mound. “Everyone feared him, and nobody wanted to mess with him,” Perry said. “That’s the kind of presence I want to bring.”
Season journey across the country
The 2026 season has taken Perry from the sunny fields of Dunedin, Florida, where he made five starts, to High‑A ball in Vancouver, Canada, before receiving the call to join the Fisher Cats in Manchester, New Hampshire. Each stop has offered new challenges and opportunities to refine his craft, and his recent performances suggest he is on the cusp of the next big step.
What’s next for Perry?
While the path to the Major Leagues is never guaranteed, Perry’s steady progress, strong work ethic, and supportive community back in Carlsbad give him a solid foundation. Fans in Carlsbad and across New Mexico are watching his development closely, hopeful that a hometown player will soon join the ranks of the Blue Jays at the highest level of baseball.
For updates on Perry’s schedule, performance, and potential call‑up, stay tuned to local sports coverage and the Blue Jays’ official channels.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.