While a former Pella baseball great determines his next step in baseball, his high school career ended four years ago with one of the most impressive streaks in state history.

When Grant Judkins stepped off of a high school mound for the last time — at Principal Park no less, he did so having not given up a run in his final 39 in ⅔ innings, 3rd most all-time in Iowa High School baseball history in terms of a scoreless streak. In fact, he’s on that list twice, as during his junior year, he gave up no runs over a 35 inning span — which is the 6th best ever scoreless pitching streak.

Grant says he looks back at his days at Pella High School fondly, especially now that he’s on the cusp of what could be a chance in professional baseball.

“Definitely the state tournaments are up there in my top memories,” Judkins says. “But I think being with the guys every day, and just enjoying the game and having a great time with everyone, I think that just tops everything else. I had a great experience at Pella and I’m grateful I’ve had that opportunity and it’s just been awesome, and really sent me to the spot I’ve gotten to.”

Judkins was widely regarded as the best Iowa High School baseball player in his senior season at Pella in 2016, earning Iowa Gatorade Player of the Year and Iowa High School Baseball Coaches Association Player of the Year that season, and has been a top of the rotation starter for the Iowa Hawkeyes in both his junior and senior seasons, the latter of which was cut short by COVID-19. Judkins awaits a decision to either continue his career at the professional level if he’s drafted, or to return to Iowa after earning eligibility relief from the NCAA.

Hear from Judkins on the Radio Sports Page on Wednesday at 6 p.m. on 92.1 KRLS.