Josh Blum’s Historic Journey at The Emery/Weiner School
Josh Blum continues to carve a unique path for The Emery/Weiner School (EWS). Two years ago, he made history as the first alumnus to be drafted by a Major League Baseball team when the New York Mets selected him in the 16th round out of USC.
Team Israel’s World Baseball Classic Roster
Earlier this month, Blum solidified his place in EWS history by becoming the school’s first player to earn a spot on Team Israel’s roster for the World Baseball Classic.
Excitement for Opportunity
“I am super pumped up about it,” remarked the EWS Class of 2021 graduate in an interview with the JHV. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. Playing at this level is one of the biggest thrills.”
Competition Ahead
Team Israel is set to compete in Pool D, which includes the Dominican Republic, Netherlands, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. The games will be held from March 6 to 11 at LoanDepot Park, home of the Miami Marlins.
Team Dynamics
Local Ties and Baseball Journey
At just 22, Blum has an impressive record, going 5-0 with five saves while playing for the Class A St. Lucie Mets before his promotion to the High-A Brooklyn Cyclones last season. He will receive his 2026 assignment following the Mets’ Spring Training in St. Lucie.
A Houston Astros fan since childhood, Blum was only five when Brad Ausmus last donned an Astros jersey. Ausmus now serves as the bench coach for the New York Yankees and will manage Team Israel. Blum, who grew up attending Congregation Beth Yeshurun and became a Bar Mitzvah in 2016, chose to attend Emery/Weiner to follow in his siblings’ footsteps. “It was an easy choice. My experience there has deepened my Jewish identity, which is vital to me and my family.”
