Made his professional debut in the Pecos League with Las Cruces in 2012, compiling a 3-2 record with a 5.26 ERA in nine appearances and seven starts. Had 31-12 strikeouts-to-walks ratio in 37 2/3 innings. Began his college career at UNC-Asheville, working out of the bullpen as a freshman, compiling a 1-1 record in 20 innings. Compiled 25-6 strikeouts-to-walks ratio in 2008 in the Southern Collegiate League for the Asheville Redbirds. Later transferred to Mt. Olive. At Garner Magnet High was named the Most Outstanding Player in 2007 while earning Greater Neuse River Conference AAAA All-Conference Award and even hit .406 with four home runs.