Every year, thousands of athletes chase their dream of playing sports professionally. But most don’t face the same challenges that Parker Byrd has.
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Byrd, an infielder/pitcher for the East Carolina Pirates, just made history by becoming the first athlete to play Division I baseball with a prosthetic leg.
Who is Parker Byrd?
Parker Byrd is a sophomore for the East Carolina Pirates who lost his leg in a boating accident two years ago, but now he’s back on the baseball diamond.
Byrd’s return to action included stepping up to the plate in front of thousands of cheering fans as he pinch-hit for ECU in the eighth inning of Friday’s win in what can only be described as an emotional moment for everyone involved.
Once the game was done, Byrd had a chance to comment on his magical moment.
“I mean chill bumps man, its absolutely phenomenal. This crowd, these fans, these people, my family, my teammates, coaches I really could not be more thankful and blessed.”
ECU’s Parker Byrd on first return to baseball after long road back
Byrd’s coach agreed, noting how special the moment was, not only for him, but even for the umpire working the game.
“It is one of the proudest moments I have ever had as a coach,” Godwin said in an on-field interview with WCTI-TV. “And he’s going to get some more. He has worked his tail off, it was super emotional. The umpire behind home plate told me when I was making a change he has been umpiring for 17-18 years and it is the coolest moment he has ever been a part of.”
ECU manager Cliff Godwin on Parker Byrd providing inspiration
Even former MLB star Jim Abbott chimed in.
Abbott played ten seasons in MLB despite being born without a right hand. Despite those challenges, Abbott still managed to have a successful career, including throwing a no-hitter.
The boating accident Byrd was a part of in July was certainly life-changing, nearly costing his life, but after undergoing 22 surgeries across 45 days, Byrd is able to return to doing what he loves, and now he’s inspiring anyone who gets a chance to hear his story.
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