Boyce Tossed Aside Risk For His Country In WBC

SYDNEY, Australia—Jimmy Boyce knew that the moment he threw a pitch for New Zealand at the World Baseball Classic Qualifier, it would mark the end of his high school playing career.

Leaving his team at Mount Si High in Snoqualmie, Wash., to represent his country of birth at the international tournament in Australia, the 18-year-old righthander understood that playing with or against professional athletes—Boyce doing both—is a violation of the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association rules, making him ineligible to return to the Wildcats when the qualifier comes to an end.

“I knew, but that’s a risk I wanted to take,” Boyce said. “That’s something I wanted to do for my country. I think there’s no greater feeling than that … This means absolutely more than anything. I’ve been growing up playing for New Zealand all my life and I’m not going to stop.”

The decision was an easy one for the young hurler, who said he wrestled over it for just five minutes before jumping on board to suit up for the Diamondblacks, looking to help his squad qualify for next year’s WBC.

“I’m not surprised,” New Zealand manager Chris Woodward said. “I had him last year on the 21-and-under team. I know what Jimmy’s all about and Jimmy’s one guy who I don’t care if he was 14. The way he pitches and the way he competes, I would trust him every time.”

Boyce understood the consequences of his actions long before throwing 1 1/3 scoreless innings and getting the win against the Philippines on Friday, after watching his brother and New Zealand teammate Joe face similar issues in the past. While he can appeal the ruling, Boyce is uncertain that a decision would be made before the high school season comes to an end, and he is happy with his choice.

“It wasn’t in the back of my mind today,” Boyce said. “What was at the front of my mind was that catcher’s mitt. I knew that I was going to be ineligible once I threw that pitch but it was not a big deal to me. I’d take this any day over high school sports … Today was great. It was a good day.”