Making his first collegiate appearance with Maryland and playing in his first game since 2015, Terrapins junior pitcher Billy Phillips entered the team's second game of a doubleheader against Tennessee on Sunday in the sixth inning. Phillips has been battling leukemia since high school and finally had the opportunity to make his long-awaited debut, and he did not disappoint.
The 6-1 lefty struck out the first batter he faced, then followed that up by rolling a double play to end the inning. He was swarmed by teammates as he walked to the dugout, each giving him a hug, recognizing the journey he's been on and his courage in the face of adversity.
Maryland lost the game but won the series, starting the season 2-1 in the opening weekend of the season. The Terps will return to action on Wed., Feb. 21 against William & Mary.
Watch Phillips' impressive return to the mound below.
Billy Phillips stomped Leukemia. Now watch him pitch.
— Maryland Baseball (@TerpsBaseball) February 19, 2018
Strikes out the first collegiate batter he faces and then rolls a double play.
What a moment. #BP15 pic.twitter.com/ADnwEfPxy3
