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Edited by: TJVNews.com
In an unprecedented moment for baseball, Assaf Lowengart, the first-ever Israeli-born position player, is set to make his historic debut with a professional baseball team in the United States. The New York Boulders, located just a short distance from Monsey, have activated Lowengart as their starting shortstop. This evening, the Frontier League’s East Division leaders will open a three-game series against the New Jersey Jackals at Hinchliffe Stadium in Paterson, NJ, marking a significant milestone in Lowengart’s career and for Israeli baseball.
Lowengart’s journey to this moment is both remarkable and inspiring. Having already earned the distinction of being the first Israeli-born position player to sign a professional contract with an American baseball team, Lowengart has a rich history of international competition. He was a vital member of Team Israel in the 2023 World Baseball Classic and showcased his talents on the global stage during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The New York Boulders’ manager, TJ Stanton, announced this afternoon that Lowengart will don the number 10 jersey as the team’s starting shortstop. This evening’s game will not only mark Lowengart’s professional debut but also his first appearance in the highly competitive Frontier League. The excitement surrounding his debut is palpable, with fans eagerly anticipating his performance.
Lowengart’s first home game is scheduled for Thursday at Clover Stadium in Pomona, where the Boulders will host the Jackals for a twi-night doubleheader. This homecoming game is expected to draw significant attention as local fans and the broader baseball community come to witness this historic moment.
Lowengart’s signing earlier this year was a significant milestone, but his journey in baseball has been extensive and decorated. He has competed at the highest levels of international baseball, representing Israel with pride and distinction. His participation in the World Baseball Classic and the Tokyo Olympics has solidified his reputation as a skilled and dedicated athlete.
Reflecting on his journey, Lowengart shared his enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunities baseball has provided him. “The game of baseball has taken me around the world and one of my stops was working out with Team Israel and playing an exhibition game against the Boulders at Clover Stadium before the Olympics in 2021,” Lowengart recalled in February. “I am thrilled to be able to return now and begin my professional career in New York.”
Lowengart’s remarkable journey began in his teen years when he emerged as a star on his junior teams in Israel. His talent and dedication quickly caught the attention of scouts, leading him to play college baseball for one season each at San Joaquin Delta College and SUNY Sullivan Community College, followed by two seasons at Mansfield College of Pennsylvania. His diverse collegiate experience honed his skills and prepared him for the challenges of professional baseball.
In 2019, Lowengart played a pivotal role in helping Israel’s national team make history by winning three tournament games to secure a spot in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. His performance was nothing short of stellar, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure on the international stage. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Israeli baseball, elevating the sport’s profile in his home country.
The following year, in 2021, Lowengart led Israel to a silver medal in Italy during the week-long World Baseball Classic (WBC) tournament. Demonstrating his prowess as a versatile power hitter, he led the tournament with 13 RBIs and four home runs. His outstanding performance not only secured a medal for Israel but also cemented his reputation as a formidable player in international baseball.
Shawn Reilly, Team President of the New York Boulders, expressed his enthusiasm when Lowengart signed with the team. “I am thrilled to have Assaf join the Boulders this season,” Reilly stated. “He is an exceptional young man and an exciting player. He personifies the type of player we want on the Boulders. We have a special bond with our local Jewish community, and Assaf will give them an extra reason to cheer the Boulders this season.”
Lowengart’s signing with the Boulders not only marks a personal achievement but also strengthens the team’s connection with the local Jewish community. His presence on the team is expected to inspire and attract more fans, creating a unique and supportive environment at Boulders’ games.
Jordy Alter, president of the Israel Association of Baseball, also shared his excitement about Lowengart’s accomplishment. “I am delighted for Assaf, the Boulders and their fans, and for all of Israel baseball,” Alter said. “To see Assaf get to fulfill his dream of playing professional baseball with the Boulders, who have long been friends of Israel baseball, and for young players in Israel to see that hard work can pay off like it has for Assaf is a great situation for all.”
As Lowengart prepares to make his professional debut, the anticipation and excitement are palpable. His journey is a source of inspiration for young athletes in Israel, showing them that dreams can indeed become reality through hard work, dedication, and perseverance. For the New York Boulders, Lowengart’s addition to the team brings not only his exceptional talent but also a deeper connection to the local community and the broader international baseball landscape.
Lowengart’s debut represents more than just a personal achievement; it signifies the growing influence and reach of baseball in Israel. His success serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes in Israel and showcases the potential for Israeli players to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
As Assaf Lowengart steps onto the field, he carries with him the hopes and aspirations of a nation. His journey from representing Israel on the international stage to making his professional debut in the United States is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication. The baseball world will be watching as this historic chapter unfolds, celebrating a new era of international diversity in the sport.
Lowengart’s debut with the New York Boulders is a significant milestone not only for him but for the entire Israeli baseball community. His achievements highlight the growing prominence of baseball in Israel and the potential for future generations of Israeli athletes.
