Daulton Varsho Honors His Namesake in League Championship Series

Toronto, Ontario — Daulton Varsho is making a name for himself on baseball’s biggest stage, honoring the legacy of his namesake, Darren Daulton, a beloved Phillies catcher. The younger Varsho, who plays center field for the Toronto Blue Jays, hit a home run in Game 1 of the American League Championship Series and continued to impress with highlight-worthy catches.

Gary Varsho, Daulton’s father, recalls his deep connection with Darren Daulton, whom he met 30 years ago as a member of the Philadelphia Phillies. After joining the team in 1995, Gary Varsho received a warm welcome from Darren, who treated him like a veteran, inviting him to dinner and offering guidance. “I felt like I belonged. It felt like I was part of it,” Gary said.

When Gary and his wife, Kay, learned they were expecting a son in late 1995, they decided to name him Daulton, a tribute to the catcher who made a significant impact on Gary’s life. Now, 30 years later, Daulton Varsho is on the field, exemplifying the same qualities his namesake embodied.

During Game 3 of the series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Varsho faced pitcher Tyler Glasnow. He worked the count to 3-2 and managed to take a tough curveball in the dirt for a walk, leaving his father in awe. “I don’t know how you take a 3-2 curveball that just bounced on the plate. I was swinging from my chair,” Gary explained.

Unlike his son, Gary Varsho had a journeyman career in the MLB, playing for multiple teams over several years before retiring. Daulton Varsho’s ascent has been smoother; drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks, he debuted in the Major Leagues just three years later. Now, as a key player for the Blue Jays, Daulton has played 158 games this season and has become known for his consistency and performance.

Gary reflects on his son’s growth, noting the similarities between him and Darren Daulton. Both players possess a stocky build and lead with quiet confidence. “Dutch was all about the Phillies. It wasn’t about him,” Gary stated, highlighting the leadership qualities that Darren exhibited.

The relationship between the elder Varsho and Daulton was strong, even leading to personal moments of reflection after Darren’s passing in 2017. When Daulton was born, Gary informed Darren of his son’s name, to which Darren responded with heartfelt silence, signifying their bond. Gary recalls feeling the significance of that moment.

As Daulton plays in the postseason, he is not just competing for glory, but he carries the memory of his namesake with him into every game, continuing a legacy that resonates deeply with both his family and baseball fans alike.