Blake Parker
Blake Parker stood out as a multi-sport athlete when attending Fayetteville Public Schools in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s. He excelled at football but it was baseball diamond that he racked up honors and accolades. In 2002, Blake played on the baseball team that was state runner up. In 2003, he was a part of the state championship team and was named the Most Valuable Player. He was also selected to All-State and All-American teams as a senior.
Blake played baseball at the University of Arkansas from 2004-2006. The Razorbacks played in the 2004 College World Series. He was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in 2006 and remained a Cub until 2015. Parker was not recognized as a pitcher at Fayetteville High School or the University of Arkansas, but has made a name for himself as an accurate closer in the Major Leagues playing for the Seattle Mariners, New York Yankees, and currently with the Los Angeles Angels.
Blake was quoted saying, “I’m just a country boy from Arkansas.” It is evident this country boy still likes to come home. In the off season he can be found helping out at Fayetteville High School and working out with the team.