Hinsdale Native, Former JCA Standout Joe Benson a Top Prospect for Twins
22-year-old outfielder looks forward to returning home to Minooka for short break, taste of Mom's home cooking.
Although "Minnesota" is emblazoned across his jersey, Joe Benson will not be rooting for the Vikings anytime soon. Born in Hinsdale, the 22-year-old Joliet Catholic grad's parting words to me were "Bear Down!" After a stellar high school career in baseball and football, the former catcher signed with the Minnesota Twins in the second round of the 2006 draft. He was the 64th pick overall. He passed up an offer to play running back for Purdue. His current baseball teammates--Chris Parmalee and Tyler Robertson, selected by the Twins in 2006 in the first and third rounds--were immediately aware of Benson's football background. The three have spent much of their minor league careers together. They say he is a great guy who always seems to have …
