Originally published October 22, 2020.

The Tampa Bay Rays are making their second-ever trip to the Fall Classic as they beat the Houston Astros to earn their way to the World Series.

On the team are two prior Monarchs, Matt Quatraro and Ryan Yarbrough. Matt Quatraro is a bench coach for the Rays but during his playing time, he was a threat at the plate while playing multiple positions in the field which included first base, third base, and outfield.

In 1994, Matt batted .413 and then .416 in 1996 and also led ODU to CAA (Colonial Athletic Association) Championships 1994, 1995, and 1996 and three straight NCAA Tournament appearances.

Ryan Yarbrough is a large piece of that sensational bullpen that has been extremely reliable the whole season.

Ryan’s gutsy performance in game three of the American League Championship came as a starter where he gave the team 5 strong innings which included five strikeouts and only giving up two earned runs while picking up the win. Ryan and Matt look to contribute to the Rays, looking for the franchise’s first-ever World Series Championship.

Two other Monarchs are catching headlines and showcasing their skills in the NFL. Eagles WR Travis Fulgham and Indianapolis Colts WR Zach Pascal are becoming dependable receivers for their teams in the NFL.

In week six Zach Pascal reeled in four grabs for 54 yards which included a 17-yard touchdown reception from Philip Rivers. The Colts trailed by 21 points to the Cincinnati Bengals and then the Colts went on to outscore the Bengals 31- 6 winning the game 31-27.

Travis Fulgham and the Eagles fell a little short in their comeback to the Baltimore Ravens in week six, but Travis continued to get an increase in playing time while he shows electrifying play at wideout.

Travis caught six passes for 75 yards which included an 18-yard touchdown reception from Carson Wentz.

As Old Dominion University continues to grow and make efforts to keep young local athletes here, the list of players continues to grow of former Monarchs making their way into the pros.

It’s great to see names added to the list of Justin Verlander, Oshane Ximines, Taylor Heinicke, among others of the fine athletes who not only spent time in their collegiate career racking up astonishing statistics but also spent hours in the same seats that we as the student body sit in for our classroom lectures. Go Monarchs!