EASTON, Pa. – JP Woodward (Baltimore, Md./Boys Latin) has signed a free agent contract with Philadelphia Phillies' organization. 
 
Woodward is coming off his junior season on College Hill, one cut short by COVID-19. The 6-6, 215-pound left-handed pitcher finished with a 2-1 record, striking out a team-high 22 batters over 20.1 innings, including a career-high 12 strikeouts at Davidson. 
 
The Economics major made 12 starts as a sophomore with a 5.90 ERA in 68.2 innings en route to a 5-7 record. As a rookie, he led the team with a 4.78 ERA in 17 appearances, striking out a batter per inning in 26.1 innings. 
 
"The last few months have definitely been stressful not really knowing what would happen with all the changes to the draft and this entire process. Sometimes it's hard to stay focused on the moment, but it just goes to show that it all happens for a reason," Woodward reflected. "And to Lafayette and all the amazing people I have come across along the way, you have no idea how grateful I am to have had such an amazing three years. I will always cherish my time on the diamond, in the classroom, late nights in Skillman — every single moment."
 
"It has been inspiring to watch J.P.'s development over the past three years — from the kid that showed up on campus to the pitcher, teammate and man we see today," said Lafayette head baseball coach Tim Reilly. "JP's hard work and determination have earned him an opportunity to fulfill his dream of being a big league ballplayer. I'm so grateful this guy is a Leopard and that I was able to experience this part of his journey."
 
Woodward's initial destination in professional baseball will depend on whether there is a minor league season in 2020, but could also start with the fall instructional league. 
 
"It still doesn't feel real that this all is going on, but I'll be ready whenever it's safe for everybody to show up," Woodward concluded.