Who is Blade Tidwell? Meet Mets rookie pitcher with unique name, high velocity

Blade Tidwell got the call for the first time.

The New York Mets right-hander was called up to the big leagues to make his MLB debut on Sunday. He will start the first game of New York's doubleheader against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Tidwell will likely be sent down after the game, but he'll first get his chance at the highest level.

Here's what you need to know about Tidwell:

Who is Blade Tidwell?

Blade Tidwell is a 23-year old right-handed pitcher for the New York Mets from Tennessee. 

He was born in Columbia, TN, went to high school in Loretto, TN and then played college ball at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

Tidwell is 6-foot-4, 207 pounds.

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What is Blade Tidwell's real name?

Blade Tidwell does in fact have Blade in his name, but it's not his first name.

Tidwell's legal name is Janzen Blade Tidwell.

How fast does Blade Tidwell throw?

The 23-year old Tidwell touched 99 miles per hour with his four-seam fastball in the spring.

He also has a sinking fastball in the mid-90s.

Tidwell also throws two types of sliders, one that resembles the new fad pitch, the sweeper.

Blade Tidwell minor league stats

Tidwell had made six starts this season at Triple-A Syracuse and compiled a 5.00 ERA and a 1-2 record.

Last season, he had a 2.41 ERA at Double-A and a 5.93 ERA at Syracuse.

Tidwell has spent four seasons in the minors since being taken in the second round out of Tennessee.

And on Sunday, he makes his major league debut.

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