A Love of the Game
At 23, Cooper Kinney is already looking back on a career that began on the same dirt that would later host his professional debut. He recalls the first time he stepped onto a field that would become familiar in the Durham Bulls, a moment that marked the start of a journey that would take him across continents.
Representing the United States as part of the 16U National Team Development Program, Kinney earned a spot on the 12U National Team in 2015. That summer, Team USA captured a gold medal at the WBSC U‑12 Baseball World Cup in Taiwan, defeating Chinese Taipei 7‑2. Kinney contributed two hits and two RBIs, helping plate three runs in a game that taught him how to manage nerves before large crowds.
The experience of playing in front of thousands of spectators proved invaluable. It not only sharpened his composure but also forged bonds with future high school teammates Nick Kurtz and Danny Corona. Competing alongside such talent, Kinney also tasted success at the high school level, winning three state championships with Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, under the guidance of his father, Mike Kinney.
Weeks after graduating, the Tampa Bay Rays selected him 34th overall in the 2021 draft. Rather than focusing on the pressure of the pick, Kinney embraced a simple philosophy: enjoy the game and maintain a positive mindset. That outlook has guided his preparation, especially as he turned his attention to physical health and performance in the 2026 season, where his offensive numbers showed a marked improvement.
Off the field, Kinney values the friendships he has built and the lessons learned from international competition. He says the memories of those early days remain a source of motivation as he climbs the minor league ladder.