“YES!”: Pirates’ Sligh Ready for Spring Season

MAYBERRY, Ala. ― Mayberry kindergartener Nathan Sligh has been working hard preparing for his first spring season of T-ball since joining the Mayberry Youth Baseball League in September. A perennial crowd favorite during his rookie season last fall with the Red Sox, Sligh is known more for his on-the-field antics than for his athletic prowess.

Throughout the fall season, Sligh was an exuberant batter but a reluctant fielder. He sometimes lacked focus, evidenced by his occasional decision to exit center field through the gap in the fence and not return to the field immediately when summoned. When asked if he planned to return to play in the spring 2016 season, Sligh responded:

“T-ball Team! YES!”

Following his most recent practice, Sligh’s father, Mr. Andi, had this to say about the young player’s progress so far:

“He brings a real love of the game and energy level not seen in some other players – both good and bad. His fielding is really coming along and he is now making the effort to retrieve balls hit in his vicinity. He’s got a good strong right hand and throws well. He’s got some work to do in the batting area, as he tends to look backwards toward his adoring fans, rather than where the ball is, but a good thumbs up from the stands is all the motivation he needs to bring his ‘A’ game.”

Despite the tremendous progress Sligh has made since the fall season, lack of speed is still a factor. Although he has increased in size since then, his tendency to look at the folks in the stands during practice has been an issue. Sligh’s mother, Andi, has run alongside him during base running drills to keep him on track, but in a real game, the temptation of the larger crowds could be the difference in reaching base safely and a long walk to the dugout.

The Pirates’ season opener is this Saturday, March 12.