Sundays with Sondheimer: The pitcher who can sing

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On Sundays this summer, I’m presenting my favorite videos from those I’ve shot over the last three years and telling the back story.

Today, it’s Cody Buckel, the former Simi Valley Royal pitcher. In 2009, as a junior, Buckel elected to join the school’s production of ‘High School Musical.’ He gave up time on the baseball field to practice his singing and acting.

It was so refreshing to see a teenager deciding to be a teenager and make the most of his high school experience.

It did not hurt him in baseball, and he showed he was a talented singer too. He went on to become a second-round draft pick of the Texas Rangers last year. He’s pitching in Single-A ball.

Here’s Buckel showing off his singing, acting and baseball skills.

-- Eric Sondheimer