Clarkin joined the AFL's Surprise Saguaros without having worked in a game that counted since Aug. 7, 2014. He also has made just one start above low Class A, but he wasn't daunted by the challenge of facing older and better hitters in Arizona.
"As much as it is a surprise to be here this young, I can compete here," Clarkin said. "I know I can."
In his first two starts for the Saguaros, Clarkin had been true to his word. He has looked rusty while yielding 11 hits and six walks in eight innings, but he has battled to strand 13 of those baserunners.