Nick Blackburn was a consistent presence in the rotation for the Rafters making 11 starts during the 2014 season, finishing with a 3-3 record. In 49.1 innings Blackburn struck out 35 batters. His performance during the 2014 season earned him a place in the Big League Dreams Showcase, which features the top 100 players as chosen by a panel Major League Baseball scouts. Following the conclusion of the season, he was named the 95th best prospect in the Northwoods League. Blackburn will play his junior season for the University of Illinois this spring.