May 12, 2008
Mitch Harris' right arm produces a blazing fastball, one that may some day get him to the Major Leagues. But it was two left feet that almost cost him his senior season at the United States Naval Academy, a gaffe that could have put a big-time dent in his dream of playing professional baseball.
Harris, rated by most as one of the top collegiate pitchers available for next month's First-Year Player Draft, spent nearly seven weeks on the sidelines after suffering a minor separation of the AC joint in his right shoulder. But the injury wasn't a result of his delivering one of those mid-90s fastballs against Army, Holy Cross or any other Patriot League opponent. Rather, it occurred against his teammates in a Feb. 17 intrasquad game. And, to make matters worse, it happened while Harris was running the bases.
Thoughts of fractures and requiring surgery raced through Harris' mind before he was told that he merely suffered a minor separation. So, rather than losing his senior season and a chance at getting drafted again -- the Braves selected in the 24th round last June -- Harris only had to rehab and wait. He finally got back on the mound at the end of March and has resumed his role as ace of the Navy staff.
For the complete article from Kevin T. Czerwinski at MLB.com click here
