NYC Official’s Nephew Drafted by Arizona Diamondbacks, Switches Allegiance

Joe Ariola, a talented pitcher and nephew of Queens Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola, was selected in the seventh round of the MLB Draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks, signing for a bonus of $274,100. The young athlete, who played three seasons at Wake Forest University, is already making a name for himself in professional baseball.

Standing 6-2 and weighing 190 pounds, Ariola is recognized for his impressive left-handed pitching, with a fastball that can reach between 93 to 97 mph and an almost unhittable curveball. His aunt expressed pride and emotion about his achievement, saying, “He’s very special to me because he’s my godson, and it was his dedication and perseverance that brought him here.” She also highlighted his potential: “He has achieved the dream of every Little Leaguer.”

During high school at Chaminade, Ariola’s exceptional talent was evident — striking out 80 batters in just 34⅔ innings and giving up only one earned run in his freshman year. His journey faced challenges, including a canceled sophomore season due to COVID-19 and Tommy John surgery, which sidelined him for his last two high school years. Nonetheless, his skills secured him a scholarship to Wake Forest, a renowned baseball program.

Commentators have noted Ariola’s promising upside, despite some control issues in college. He expressed excitement about joining the Diamondbacks’ minor league system to further develop, especially after a notable stint with the minor-league affiliate of his childhood favorite, the Yankees. Ariola pitched impressively for the Trenton Thunder in the MLB Draft League, describing the experience as very comfortable and welcoming on the same field where legends like Derek Jeter and Aaron Judge played.

He shared his enthusiasm about his future in baseball, eager to improve his control and continue his journey in professional sports, leaving behind his Yankees fandom for his new team.