Griffin Canning, the New York Mets pitcher, owes much of his success to the sacrifices of his parents, Kevin and Julie Canning.
It was their guidance, love, and support that played a vital role in shaping his path from a standout high school and college athlete to a Major League Baseball (MLB) player.
Kevin and Julie Canning raised Griffin and his elder brother, Spencer, in Mission Viejo, California.
Griffin developed a love for baseball while playing in Little League, where he particularly enjoyed pitching. His parents, who recognized his talent early, supported him in improving his skills.
It was their dedication that helped Griffin pursue his athletic dreams, from local leagues to the national stage.
And their sacrifices didn’t go to vain, for Griffin made it to the MLB. The baseball player has also openly credited his parents for their sacrifices, particularly during key moments in his career.
One notable instance occurred after his first MLB win on May 7, 2019, against the Detroit Tigers. In a postgame interview, Griffin shared his intention to gift the game-winning ball to his father, Kevin, saying,
He was bugging me last time for not giving him one.
While Griffin tends to keep his personal reflections private, his decision to honor his father with the ball from his first win speaks volumes about his gratitude.
Julie Canning, A Breast Cancer Survivor, Is A Registered Dental Hygienist!
Griffin Canning’s mother, Julie Canning, is a breast cancer survivor.
On May 12, 2024, Julie Canning and Grace McNamee, Los Angeles Angels’ Communications staff, both breast cancer survivors, threw an honorary first pitch together, in respect for their resilience.
Professionally, Julie is an experienced registered dental hygienist with a career spanning over four decades.
She got her training and received her certificate in Oral Myofunctional Therapy. At the moment, Julie works as a dental hygienist at Hada Family Dental.
Griffin Canning’s Parents, Kevin And Julie, Take Great Pride In His Achievements!
Likewise, his parents have also showcased their great pride in his achievements, from his high school triumphs to his professional milestones.
Griffin Canning’s parents were visibly emotional as they witnessed their son’s Major League debut on April 30, 2019.
One of the most prominent displays of their pride came during Griffin’s senior year at Santa Margarita Catholic High School in 2014.
Griffin led his team to the California Interscholastic Federation SS Division I Championship, pitching a complete game with 11 strikeouts and allowing just two hits.
Julie Canning, speaking to the Daily Bruin in 2017, emphasized Griffin’s humility and team-oriented nature, saying,
He’s a team kid, a team player. He doesn’t like being brought into the limelight compared to all the other guys.
Julie Canning
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Canning was selected by the Colorado Rockies in the 38th round of the 2014 MLB Draft out of high school but chose to attend UCLA instead. He was later drafted by the Los Angeles Angels in the second round (47th overall) of the 2017 MLB Draft, signing for a $1.459 million bonus.
- In 2014, Canning led Santa Margarita Catholic High School to the California Interscholastic Federation SS Division I Championship at Dodger Stadium.
