Like the rest of Mitch Harris' 6-foot-4, 220-pound frame, his gifted right arm belongs to the Navy. Ensign Harris graduated from the Naval Academy last month and is scheduled to report to the Norfolk-based amphibious transport ship Ponce on June 16.
After today's Major League Baseball Draft, Harris and his 94 mph fastball also could be property of a big league club. Scouts say he has the talent to be taken in the third or fourth round.
Therein lies the conflict. Were he a civilian, Harris, 22, simply would sign a contract and report to a minor league club. As a naval officer facing a five-year commitment, his situation is more complicated and is shaping up as a test case for a branch of the service historically reluctant to grant special privileges to aspiring pro athletes.
"I have no idea what's going to happen, to be completely honest," Harris said Monday from his parents' home in Maryland. "I plan on signing."
But will he be able to play?
No one has been able to answer that question so far.
Unlike the Army, which has an Alternative Service Option that enabled a pair of 2008 West Point graduates to sign with NFL teams, the Navy has no policy allowing midshipmen to complete an education valued at $200,000 and immediately begin pursuing professional sports careers.
Still, Harris is going full-steam ahead, hoping for the best. Over the past week, he worked out for the Mets and Yankees in New York, the Reds and Cardinals in New Jersey and the Phillies in Philadelphia. He threw Tuesday for the Orioles at Camden Yards in Baltimore.
During a phone interview Monday with The Virginian-Pilot, Harris excused himself to take a call on his other line. It was the Cardinals. They wanted to know the same thing other clubs are asking: If we risk a pick on you, when can you play?
Harris can't give them an answer.
"Some teams don't seem too worried about it," Harris said. "Some are saying this is a huge glitch. Others are saying it's too big an obstacle to get around, and they'll find another right-handed pitcher."
Harris has few options. In peace time, graduates can serve two years, then apply for early release from active duty. That was the path taken by former NBA star David Robinson, a 1987 Naval Academy graduate who joined the San Antonio Spurs in 1989.
Robinson was the rare case, the beneficiary of a policy intended for "exceptional personnel with unique talents" who can provide the Navy with favorable publicity that can enhance recruiting.
With the nation at war, the policy was suspended in November by Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter.
Harris isn't asking for an exemption from that policy. Rather, he's hoping that when he gets to Norfolk, his commanding officer will give him an assignment that will allow him to fulfill his obligation and still play professional baseball.
"I think there's different ways you could work it out to do something like that," Harris said.
The Navy declined to comment directly on Harris' case. In general, a commanding officer would not have the authority to assign someone to a different command, said Lt. Candice Tresch, a Navy spokeswoman in Washington. A detailer would have to make the assignment, which would need to be approved by someone higher up the chain of command, she said.
Depending on which team selects Harris, serving in the Navy while playing minor league baseball could present some logistical challenges, especially with his assignment to the Ponce. Class A minor league clubs, where most players typically begin their professional careers, are scattered all over the country, often in remote locations.
Could Harris work as a recruiter somewhere near his club and return to his ship in the offseason? That's one scenario. But what about deployments? Harris' agent, Rick Oliver, also suggested that because starting pitchers only work every five days, his client could use his 30 days of annual leave to make his starts.
"Some teams have asked for something in writing, and we can't give that to them," Oliver said. "Right now, it's hard for me to tell, hard for me to project, how much this is going to affect his draft status."
A late bloomer, Harris didn't expect to be in this situation when he signed with Navy four years ago. Recruited as a position player out of Mount Holly, N.C., he played outfield as a freshman and served as the team's closer out of the bullpen. A new coaching staff arrived the next year and was impressed by his arm strength. They made him a starter, and Harris blossomed into one of the top pitchers in the nation.
The Atlanta Braves selected Harris with a 24th-round pick last year (players at four-year colleges are eligible to be drafted after their junior year). Navy coach Paul Kostacopoulos said it was a low-risk gesture on their part. This year, he won't be surprised if a team selects Harris much higher, even with the uncertainty of his Navy commitment hanging over him.
"There are bigger risks out there than Mitch Harris," Kostacopoulos said. "He's definitely a prospect. He's got great ability, great potential, and he's got such a young arm."
Young, yes, but Harris still feels a sense of urgency. Taking five - or even two - years off from baseball would kill his career, he said. Staying sharp without facing professional-caliber hitters would be all but impossible, he contends. Plus, after serving even a two-year commitment, at age 24 he'd be at the point where many prospects are being released, not beginning an often multiyear journey to the major leagues.
Should he be allowed to play immediately and eventually reach the majors, it would be a win-win for Harris and the Navy, he said. His blazing fastball could be an effective recruiting and publicity tool for the Navy, in the same way the popular Robinson, nicknamed "The Admiral," was an ambassador for the service.
"I'm not trying get out of anything," Harris said. "I want to fulfill my obligation. Hopefully, we can find a compromise that will work for everybody."
He has made his pitch. The Navy will make the call.
Ed Miller, 446-2372, ed.miller@pilotonline.com
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Response..
I appreciate your well written response.
I will address a couple points:
What Roger Staubach did then and what is happening now is comparing apples and oranges. Different era, different circumstances. In the 1960's the country was at war, now only the military is at war. For most people the war has very little impact on their life. In fact in a recent poll War in Iraq was 4th in the top problems facing the country today.(http://www.pollingreport.com/prioriti.htm) I would submit to you that Vietnam ranked higher than 4th.
The pampered life of an pro athlete...slightly misleading. True a major league player lives the good life. However, Single A ball players (where he would start) make a max of $1100 a month for their first year. (http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/info/faq.jsp?mc=milb_info) That doesn't equate to a pampered life.
I will agree that IF he was thinking about pursuing a pro career from the beginning then USNA was the wrong choice. However, if he can get stationed at a recruiting office, and play baseball good for him. Obviously I am in the minority on this (at least on this forum) but that's my two cents.
JSHAC37
You've made some interesting points, but I must respectfully disagree.
Appointment to the Naval Academy is an honor and a privilege awarded to only a few. In return for that honor and privilege, not to mention the cost to the taxpayer, those who complete the arduous education and training demands are expected to act with honor. Honor demands that if you make an agreement and the other party to the agreement does their part, then it is incumbent upon you to do your part. In this case, the taxpayers paid for his education, now it is his turn to provide the services for which we paid. That is what Roger Staubach did.
While it is true that he may not go to the war zone, the possibility is always there. It is not fair that another go in his place just so he can live the pampered, comfortable life of a professional athlete.
Just because the Army made an irresponsible decision, the Navy is not required to do so.
If this man had thoughts of pursuing a professional sports career, he should have applied to a civilian college or university. He should not have asked the taxpayers to fund his education just so he could have a back-up career if baseball didn't work out.
Let him play....
From an USNA graduate I personally feel that the Navy should let him go and give MLB shot. Here a few reasons why:
1> Not every newly commissioned Ensign is going to war. Some of them are going to sit behind a desk and push papers.....
2>During my last ship tour (2006) Ensigns were being released early from their commitments with no payback, because we had too many. Jobs and billets were being invented just to barely occupy them.
3> Recruitment. Sure it sounds silly, but there are plenty of people at USNA who came as recruited athletes and for whatever reason it didn't work out in their sport, and ended up becoming great officers. The more exposure, the better.
4> If the Army can do it (i.e. Caleb Campbell) So should the Navy. We're all under the same umbrella
Finally, to address the morale issue...for the most part morale is boosted when you see or read about someone from USNA making it pro. I haven't heard one disparaging comment about Kyle Eckle on the patriots. Other sailors, soldiers are happy for him.
Think about it this way, for all of you that are in (or were in) the Navy, if you won the lottery would you fulfill your commitment? For him t
Where is his honor and integrity
He new what would be required of him after graduating from the Academy. He honor his commitment and serve his time in the Navy. Look back to the 1960's and Roger Staubeck. He served his time after graduation.
Quit giving freebies to Jocks!
So this Ensign wants more of what is probably a long history of special treatment; because he is a gifted athlete. I say no way! We already give free college educations each year to thousands of athletes who are dumber than a bag of hammers. They are given degrees that are worthless(like PE or 'Studies'). What about the average students that don't get into VT because they just missed the academic cut? Think of the greater contribution to society at large if that scholarship money was spent on more kids in science programs. I bet those graduates will give back more to the nation than a solid blocking performance on Sunday afternoon.
This man is not stupid, however. Last I checked, Anapolis was one of the few schools that still require EVERYONE to actually do the work. But I agree with the bulk of the posters here. He signed a contract, he should complete it FULLY. And not just in a recruiting station in Baltimore near the ballpark for the duration of his 'career'.
skoops88
There is one big difference you seem to be forgetting. In North Korea you would have been imprisoned for an anti-government statement such as your last post. This is America, where your freedom to make such statements has been protected by the very military you disparage.
Military before baseball
He should do his time in the Navy. Sorry if he might be to old for the pro career, but he got an appointment to the academy, benefited from the schooling and now he needs to do his part and be an officer. This just seems to be a product of our times now, i.e., so what if I signed a contract why should I have to fulfill my end of the bargain once you have done yours. During my twenty years in the Navy lots of people wished they could get out early just because they didn't like the life, but they still had to fulfill their contract. Suck it up Ensign and do the honorable and gentlemanly thing. From a retired Chief Petty Officer.
America...
Good thing this is a military state!!!! All hail the armed forces and their great leader. Oh wait, for a second there I thought I was in North Korea...
Funny stuff
Anyone else who has served time on a ship think it's hilarious that this Ensign thinks he might be given an assignment where he could fulfill his obligations to the Navy AND have a simultaneous Major League career? What are they teaching them at the Academy?
I would love to talk to the CO of the USS PONCE about this kid.
Skoops
Every citizen does play a small part in the country running properly....but it is the military that protects it, it is the military that is called out in national emergencies, such as hurricane Katrina, it is the military, the police and the fire and rescue personnel that put their lives on the line for the people of this country. If it had not been for the military, there would be no US....so you can think any way you want, it is your right, protected by the military. And as for your comment about "ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country" for the military that be fight fight kill kill...well that just shows your ignorant mentality, no one in the military wants a war, but we are the ones prepared to go and do our duty if it happens. Back in WWII pro athletes and movie stars were giving up their careers to join the military....my how times have changed. When your personal happiness is put before anything else. Sad indeed.
to play or not to play
I think there is a very easy solution to this problem:Yes, he should fulfill his 5 year obligation, but a disgruntled officer is not some one that should serve out his obligation. So if a ball club is really interested in him, figure out the cost of the Naval Academy education & what he would have made for 5 years in the navy. Have the ball club pay that to the US Government and cut him lose. I think everyone would win in the end. Especially those that would have to serve under him, and possibly hear him whine about what he was missing out on.
Skoops88
Okay, you are against the war. I get it. Fine.
I also understand from reading the article that he started in the outfield before being moved to pitcher. So, it sounds like he didn't expect this four years ago when he sign the contract to go to the Academy. But, he still signed the contract. It is unfortunate for him that they suspended the 2 year rule last November, but who knows, with a new President in office, they may reinstate the rule before his time is up. Besides, he may find out that he gets more fulfillment as a Naval Officer and decide to make it a career.
Another thing...
If you read the article you know that unlike he can not only serve 2 years, in a time of war he has to serve all 5... Military mentality --- "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country" means fight, fight, fight, kill, kill, kill!!!
Calm down buddy
I didn't say I "know" what you think or feel, I said it "sounds like" you are bitter. Still does. And as far as speaking what’s on my mind, I will continue to do so, thank you. Its funny how the military people always think this country was made b/c of what it does when in actuality it is only part of the equation. With out a successful government, private economy, education system and yes to a degree the military this country wouldn't be what it is today. EVERYONE plays a part in it not just the military... So with that said... how DARE YOU sir say I have not done my part in making this country what it is today because I chose not to join the military, I have made my contributions in many other ways, like paying my portion of out retirement and disability checks. With out that there would be no military. JMO
Committment
He needs to do his time in the Navy first. And no early out either. He is not a recuitment tool. Besides, who would he recruit? Other athletes that would then try to get out of their obligation of service? As for other athletes not paying for college, that college picks up the tab, not taxpayers. It turns into a manning issue for the Navy also. The Ponce is counting on him to be there to perform his duty and perform it everyday. If he plays ball, when will the Ponce get a replacement for him? I'd bet several months down the road unless they change somebody elses orders (but that starts a domino effect).
Skoops....they are required
Skoops....they are required to pay back the value of their education, $200K.
VMI/morale/commitments
VMI is not an SA, but some graduates in the ROTC program do graduate as a commissioned officer in their desired branch of service. Anyway, USNA has a program where the athlete could buy out of their obligation after two years of military service. From there, they are required to do 6 years of reserves. But in November, DoD cancelled the option program because of being at a time of war. Also, when Harris applied to The Academy, he didn't think he'd be drafted in the MLB. This just transpired in the last two years due to excellent coaching. He could not have foreseen this happening. Midshipmen can leave the Academy prior to them signing up for service after graduation without any military obligations...which they sign in their junior year. He signed up and was expecting to do his time. He has said that he is not backing out of this commitment with the USN. They are all trying to figure out a way he can serve and play baseball. He has a lot of support from his classmates, so morale is not an issue.
To skoops88
How dare you try to even think about what I am. I am not bitter in any way. If I were sent back in time, I would make the same choice again. Unlike you, who benefits from those that go to the academies, and enlist, we don't think of ourselves first. We believe in the common good, what is good for the country. Remember what JFK said, "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." This kid chose to go to the academy, he is obligated to the citizens of the United States, to put forth his time in the military, which the academy trained him for, along with the education he got. The military has no slots they can give away to people that want to become superstars. If he wants to play so badly, do what David Robinson did, do 2 years active, go play and do your last 6 in the reserves. And skoops, do not EVER try to say you know what I think and/or feel. And your welcome for the loss of me being able to do anything, so that you can write what you want.
It's all money...
Tell him how much to pay and he, or the team will whether it’s $200,000, $250,000 or whatever you all want to keep increasing it to. And it doesn't make him a better person then you but it does make him more talented then you. So, not being a part of the military, this is what I take from this. Signing a contract with the Navy equates to selling your soul to the navy... there is no way out of it. That is just the mentality that kept me from even considering enlisting. Maybe letting him play ball would show young people the navy isn't the soul sucking monster it is viewed as...
Since he became a prospect while at Navy...
… I wonder if he would have improved his baseball skills to this level without the discipline and regimentation that one gets with life at Annapolis.
Being a high draft pick in baseball isn’t an automatic pass to super stardom and mega riches. It only gets you a favorable assignment in the minors and a chance to advance up the ladder. While less enjoyable, an ensign’s billet is favorable to a career that stalls out in the Carolina League. I’d have more sympathy (but the same opinion) if he was a sure thing, like David Robinson.
Roger Staubach didn’t get an exemption at all. That’s the example that Harris should look to. If Harris is good enough, he’ll find a way to stay sharp and still be a prospect in five years when his hitch is up.
MORALE ARGUMENT IS WITHOUT MERIT
I see a lot of talk about morale. How about his classmates who would watch him live a comfortable life making obscene amounts of money while they are in harm's way? What about their morale? All this guy did at Annapolis is throw a ball better than they. He has done nothing to merit special treatment.
The taxpayers paid his tuition and expenses at Annapolis for four years. In return, they expect him to serve four years as a Naval officer, not as a pampered professional athlete. That is the contract. The taxpayers lived up to their part of the bargain. Now its time for him to live up to his.
Different contract
Skoops, your contract is a non-compete. The consideration is employment. His consideration was an education. The Navy's is his service after his education. He can't get his consideration and expect the Navy not to get theirs. A "buyout" is silly, given sunk costs. And for the record, just because someone is talented, it doesn't make them better. I may be a talented baseball player, batting .400 and hitting 60 home runs a season, but go home every night and beat my wife. Does that make me better than the average person?
Pay for the Tuition and join the reserves
Make him serve 8 years in the reserves and pay back the 200K to the government and do some recruiting. This should make a good deal for everyone including the taxpayers. If he signs as a pro, 200K should be pocket change, he serves in the reservers as a recruiter and problem solved. It's a shame that no one in the government can make creative decisions!
Ok, so signed a contract...
Great, he signed a contract saying we will give you $200,000 or $250,000 (seems you people can’t get your numbers straight) for education, you give us five years. That’s fine. Now, unless the Navy is trying to trick people, I am sure he could pay back that money making the contract null and void. I have a contract with my employer saying I can't work for any of our clients for 2 years after the date I leave the company. If I would like to do so I would have to compensate my "ex" company. Same principles should be plausible.
Really all you "a contract is a contract" people just sound like bitter Navy brats. I am a taxpayer and I would much rather see this kid play ball then go fight some pointless war, its a waste of talent. And yes talented people are better the average people, this is why they are called talented...
I have an idea.....
Smoke a joint, say you're gay, or have a shrink say you are clincally depressed......that will get you out of your NAVY duties and into the majors! There is no way that the NA tuition runs $250,000 for 4 years....that is crazy. Harvard and YALE are only $35,000 per year. If this kid has to join the NAVY he will make under $30,000 per year for the first 3 years even graduating as an Officer. Also, it's not as much tax payer money going towards tuition as one might think. The NA has an endowment that is funded by private individuals and former graduates which pays tuition and fees. If the kid doesn't want to be a "volunteer" anymore then let him go to MLB. There are many ways he can be released from his contract to the NAVY though, he just needs to get creative!
He should do his time
If he really wants to get out of his contract maybe he should contact Kyle Eckel of the New England Patriots. He went to the academy and got out of his contract to the Navy. That's life, oh yeah what about commitment to God and country?
HE SIGNED A CONTRACT PERIOD
He can play ball after he finishes his commitment to serve this country peroid....anything else underminds the whole system and showes others that there are different rules for gifted people..and if your not gifted to bad HAZE GRAY AND UNDERWAY :)
DOUBLE STANDARD ALIVE AND WELL
From Scoops88's post, I must infer that the concept that athletes should be given special treatment is alive and well.
I doubt very seriously that whatever morale the heretofore relatively obscure Annapolis baseball team could have contributed was worth anywhere close to $250,000.
Besides, this guy's tuition was being paid for by the taxpayers. How about their morale? Before today, who had even heard of him?
What about morale?
I am sure that sports don't bring people to these academies, but I bet it keeps morale up. The normal student doesn't boost the morale of the whole school, the single athlete can and with that pay their debt. And as for the "other" student that didn't make it b/c this guy did, well maybe he should have tried harder to be better.
Navy Contract?
I signed a contract every time I re-enlisted thinking I would have medical benefits after I retired. Now that our local NAS is closing, the VA informed me that my retirement and social security checks give me too much income to qualify for VA treatment. I cannot find that any where on my paperwork. For the ball player, go for it. You must not have meant it when you signed your contract!