Ankiel to tell his amazing story; sign books at baseball camp
The Tommy Hutton Baseball Academy and General Manager Brian Justine have announced that MLB legend Rick Ankiel will be paying a visit to its upcoming winter baseball camp (12/24-12/28) at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Ankiel’s visit will consist of a Q&A session and book signing of his recently released New York Times bestseller The Phenomenon. Each camp participant will get to meet the 2019 Hall of Fame nominee and receive a personally signed copy of The Phenomenon, which Ankiel will sign in person during his visit.
In the book, Ankiel provides readers with insight into one of the most amazing journeys in the history of professional sports. Ankiel, an 11 year MLB veteran, overcame multiple challenges during a legendary career where he made it to the major leagues as a pitcher in 1999 and then came back as an outfielder in 2004. He and Babe Ruth are noted as two of the most successful two-way players in MLB history. Prior to settling into being an everyday player who launched 76 HR and played gold glove caliber defense, Ankiel dominated on the mound, striking out 269 batters in 242 IP. One of south Florida’s proudest sons, Ankiel was a prep star at Port St. Lucie HS where he was a second round pick by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1997.
Ankiel’s scheduled visit to the THBA marks the third time he’s made an appearance in the camps 18 year history. During his first appearance in 2002, he spoke and inspired nearly 100 local players when stated that he was “confident” that he would make it back to the majors as an outfielder. Sure enough, he delivered on his promise in 2004 as the Cardinals promoted him to the big leagues after a sizzling run through the minor leagues.
The Tommy Hutton Baseball Academy was established in 2001 and specializes in youth baseball FUNdamentals. Over 10,000 players have participated in THBA camps. To find out more information or to register for the upcoming winter camp featuring Rick Ankiel, please visit www.huttonbaseball.com. Contact Brian Justine at brian@huttonbaseball.com with questions.
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