Dalton Pompey drives in run in first major-league plate appearance with Blue Jays

On a night the Blue Jays' offence exploded for 11 runs against the Chicago Cubs, rookie Dalton Pompey stepped into the batter's box for the first time in his major-league career and didn't wait long to get in on the action.

The switch-hitting Pompey, a Mississauga native, entered the game with one out in the 8th inning as a pinch-hitter for Edwin Encarnacion and took his first big league hacks from the left side. On a 1-1 count, he whacked a groundball to first base and was out on the play, but it was enough to score Anthony Gose from third for Pompey to record his first career RBI and help the Jays close out an 11-1 win.

It was an emotional moment for Dalton's mom, Val, and dad, Ken, as they watched their son realize a lifelong dream just a few minutes from where he grew up.

"I was nervous, I'm not going to lie," Pompey told the Canadian Press. "My arm was shaking before I went up to bat and I just had to collect myself, take a deep breath and try to stick with my approach, it was hard. Even the first pitch, I didn't really see it. Just had to collect myself, try to put the ball in play and good things happen.

“I know my mom and dad are proud of me and I’m proud of them. They’ve supported me right from the start.”

The 21-year-old outfielder, who is known for his speed, had made four appearances as a pinch-runner during his time brief time with the Blue Jays as a September call-up before his first plate appearance on Wednesday night. Next on his list: his first major-league hit and major-league start.