Post by RoyalsGM on Jan 20, 2013 1:12:32 GMT -5
Kansas City, MO
The Kansas City Royals recently announced the signing of left handed pitcher Jim Abbott, and with that signing they have added one of the most unique athletes in sports history.
Born James Anthony Abbott on September 19, 1967, Abbott was born without a right hand. Yes. True.
Abbott despite this birth defect went on to become a star baseball player in Michigan as well as the high school quarterback. He was drafted in the 36th round of the ML Amateur Draft in 1985, but did not sign a contract, he chose instead to attend the University of Michigan
At Michigan, Abbott refined his game and excelled as a starting pitcher. He helped lead the Wolverines to two Big Ten Championships, and went on to become the first baseball player to win the James E. Sullivan award.
Later in his professional career, Abbott would pitch for the United States in the Pan Am Games as well help pitch the U.S. to gold in 1988. Abbott is in the College Hall of Fame and has been honored many times for his athletic accomplishments.
Jim Abbott is not only a special athlete, but a very special person. Despite his birth defect, Abbott is an excellent fielder as a pitcher and can hit too.
The Kansas City Royals recently announced the signing of left handed pitcher Jim Abbott, and with that signing they have added one of the most unique athletes in sports history.
Born James Anthony Abbott on September 19, 1967, Abbott was born without a right hand. Yes. True.
Abbott despite this birth defect went on to become a star baseball player in Michigan as well as the high school quarterback. He was drafted in the 36th round of the ML Amateur Draft in 1985, but did not sign a contract, he chose instead to attend the University of Michigan
At Michigan, Abbott refined his game and excelled as a starting pitcher. He helped lead the Wolverines to two Big Ten Championships, and went on to become the first baseball player to win the James E. Sullivan award.
Later in his professional career, Abbott would pitch for the United States in the Pan Am Games as well help pitch the U.S. to gold in 1988. Abbott is in the College Hall of Fame and has been honored many times for his athletic accomplishments.
Jim Abbott is not only a special athlete, but a very special person. Despite his birth defect, Abbott is an excellent fielder as a pitcher and can hit too.
