A Heartfelt Shift in Loyalty
New York City Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola recently made headlines with her decision to switch her loyalty from the Mets to the Diamondbacks. This heartfelt change is prompted by the selection of her nephew, Joe Ariola, in the MLB Draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks. A life-long Mets fan, Ariola has embraced her new allegiance passionately, declaring, “I’m changing my hat. I’m sorry. Blood is thicker.” The significance of family connections underscores her shift, highlighting how personal achievement can transcend sports rivalry.
Joe Ariola, standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 190 pounds, exhibited remarkable skills as a left-handed pitcher. He played three seasons at Wake Forest University before being drafted in the seventh round as the 213th pick, which comes with a signing bonus of $274,100—an impressive sum that nearly doubles his aunt’s income as a city council member. This substantial financial backing is a testament to his potential, reflecting the high expectations set for him in his professional career.
Ariola’s aunt, Joann, expressed deep pride in her nephew, calling him “very special” not only as a family member but as her godson. His journey to this point has been marked by hard work and determination, a narrative that resonates with many aspiring athletes. Joann’s description of Joe serves to amplify his potential; she shares that he can throw between 93 to 97 miles per hour with a virtually unhittable curveball. Her enthusiastic support showcases the emotional bonds within family dynamics, especially when one member achieves their dreams.
Despite his evident talent, Joe faced significant hurdles during his athletic journey. He had an outstanding freshman year at Chaminade High School, where he amazed coaches and peers alike by giving up just a single earned run and striking out 80 batters in only 34 2/3 innings. The excitement surrounding his performance was palpable; Coach Joseph Caso recalled it as akin to discovering a hidden lottery ticket. However, setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent Tommy John surgery hindered his progression, causing him to miss critical high school seasons.
Despite these challenges, Joe’s remarkable skill earned him a scholarship at Wake Forest University, a notable baseball program. During the recent draft, MLB announcer Jim Callis referred to him as an “upside play,” acknowledging some struggles with walks but also emphasizing the intriguing potential he possesses. Joe agreed with this assessment, expressing optimism about joining the Diamondbacks’ minor league system, where he aims to refine his control on the mound and harness his abilities effectively.
Although he grew up a Yankees fan, Joe recognizes the unique opportunity presented by being drafted by the Diamondbacks. He reflects positively on his recent experience pitching for the Trenton Thunder, a former minor-league affiliate of the Yankees, where he thrived and felt welcomed. Nevertheless, his allegiance to the Yankees has shifted alongside his aunt’s newfound support for the Diamondbacks, marking the beginning of a new chapter in an evolving family narrative steeped in sports and achievement.
