By Staff

Jun. 17, 2015:  Many Little League baseball players dream of going pro someday. One local Bronxville boy--Harrison Bader--has done it! On Tuesday, June 9, Harrison Bader, a junior at University of Florida, was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the third round of the Major League Baseball draft.

Growing up in Bronxville, Harrison Bader started his baseball career as a shortstop in the Eastchester Little League. He had a huge passion for the game and big league dreams. His dad, Louis Bader, pitched to him every day after he got home from work and on weekends. "My father has helped me so much," said Harrison. "He is the most influential person in my life."

Harrison went on to be a star centerfielder at Horace Mann. The summer before his junior year, Harrison also joined the New York Grays, a high-level travel baseball team. He did this at the suggestion of David Owens, one of the Horace Mann coaches. "David Owens has always been an incredible friend and coach" said Bader.

Bader performed extremely well on the Grays and this, along with his performance at Horace Mann, drew the attention of college recruiters. Harrison ultimately chose to play Division 1 baseball with the Florida Gators at the University of Florida. "My goal was always to play with the best players. I went to Florida because it is the best program in the country and I got a chance to play there," said Harrison.

The Florida Gators are at the Division 1 College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska, this week. Harrison will start his pro career soon thereafter. "We are so proud and could not ask for a better organization," said his mother, Janice Baio Bader.

When asked what advice Harrison has for young players, he said, "Play with intensity and passion for the game. You are never sure what opportunities will come your way. Sometimes you won't be sure you even belong there, but if you work hard and give it your all, good things will happen."

Good things have certainly happened for Bader!

Pictured here (rotating):  Harrison Bader playing for the Florida Gators and, as a young child, playing for the Eastchester Little League.

Photos courtesy the family