Harrison Joseph Bader, an American center fielder, has etched his mark in Major League Baseball with sheer determination and talent. Born in Bronxville, New York, on June 3, 1994, Bader’s journey to the professional baseball realm began at the University of Florida, where he showcased his budding potential.
Bader made his debut with the Memphis Redbirds in 2016, but it was his entry into MLB with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2017 that marked his arrival on the big stage. After a stint with the Cardinals, Bader switched allegiances to the New York Yankees in 2022, donning the #48 jersey and taking up his familiar position as a center fielder. Currently, he graces the field for the Cincinnati Reds, exhibiting his skills and adding to his commendable batting average of .248.
Standing at 1.83 meters, Bader is not only recognized for his prowess on the field but also his commitment and dedication off it. His parents, Louis and Janice Bader, have been instrumental pillars of support throughout his baseball journey. Harrison Bader’s career, with its trajectory of growth and accomplishments, stands as a testament to his hard work and the relentless pursuit of his baseball dreams.
Harrison Bader: Quick Biography
- Born: June 3, 1994, in Bronxville, New York, USA.
- Early Life:
- Bader attended Horace Mann School in Riverdale, New York, where he played for the school’s baseball team.
- He then played college baseball at the University of Florida for the Florida Gators.
- MLB Career:
- St. Louis Cardinals: Bader was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the third round of the 2015 Major League Baseball Draft. He made his MLB debut with the Cardinals in July 2017.
- Known for his strong defensive skills, Bader quickly made a mark as a center fielder for the Cardinals. He’s also recognized for his speed on the bases.
- Achievements:
- As of my last update in September 2021, Bader has been particularly noted for his defensive prowess in the outfield. This has earned him recognition, including being awarded the Gold Glove Award.
- Personal Life:
- Outside of baseball, Bader has involved himself in charitable activities and often engages with fans through social media.
The Rise of Harrison Bader: From Bronxville to MLB Stardom
Born on June 3, 1994, in Bronxville, New York, Harrison Joseph Bader’s affinity for sports was evident early on. Studying at the esteemed Horace Mann School, he juggled multiple roles, captaining the baseball, football, and hockey teams, and culminating his school years with an “Athlete of the Year” title.
Esteemed events like the Area Code Games and the Under Armour All-America Baseball Game acknowledged Bader’s prodigious skills. With a .500 batting average and an undefeated season in his senior year, MLB seemed to be his destiny.
Joining the Gator Brigade: Bader at Florida
The University of Florida’s Gators welcomed Bader into their acclaimed baseball program, where he showcased his brilliance in the challenging Southeastern Conference (SEC). By 2016, his phenomenal performances, including an SEC-leading 24 stolen bases, paved the Gators’ path to the College World Series finals.
In his tenure as a Gator, Bader dazzled the diamond with 150 hits, 17 home runs, and 43 stolen bases across 201 games. His acrobatics in the outfield made him a spectacle.
The Cardinal Calling
The St. Louis Cardinals recognized Bader’s potential, selecting him in the 2015 MLB draft’s third round. Yet, valuing growth over immediate glory, Bader returned to Florida for another season. This decision bore fruit when the Cardinals drafted him again in 2016 at an even more coveted position.
Making his MLB debut in 2017, Bader’s lightning-fast outfield exploits and basepath sprints became a Cardinal hallmark. By 2018, his 12 home runs, 15 stolen bases, and elite defense propelled the Cardinals’ journey in the playoffs.
Five MLB seasons in, Harrison Bader stands tall as one of baseball’s defensive stalwarts, proving that dreams crafted in Bronxville can echo in the grand stadiums of MLB.
Bader’s College Baseball Stats and Achievements
Here is a snapshot of Harrison Bader’s stats and accomplishments over his college baseball career playing for the University of Florida Gators:
- Batting Average: .283
- Hits: 150
- Doubles: 27
- Home Runs: 17
- Runs Batted In: 77
- Stolen Bases: 43
- 201 games played
- 2016 First Team All-SEC
- Helped lead Gators to 2016 College World Series finals
- Among SEC leaders in stolen bases, defense in center field
Follow Harrison Bader on Social Media
- Twitter – @aybaybader
- Instagram – @harrisonbader
FAQs About Harrison Bader’s College Baseball Career
What position did Harrison Bader play at the University of Florida?
Bader was the starting center fielder for the Gators throughout his three-year college career. He earned acclaim for his defensive range and ability to cover ground in the outfield.
How did Bader perform in the NCAA Tournament for Florida?
In 2016, Bader helped lead Florida to the College World Series finals by hitting .321 with 2 home runs in their NCAA Tournament run. The Gators fell just short against Coastal Carolina in the championship series.
Was Harrison Bader a top prospect after college?
Yes, after his standout junior season, Bader was considered one of the top college outfielders available in the 2016 MLB Draft. His combination of athleticism, defense, and improving hitting made him an attractive prospect.
What awards did Bader win at Florida?
In 2016, Bader was named First Team All-SEC after hitting .283 with 12 home runs and 24 stolen bases. He emerged as one of the conference’s top players in his final college season.
Did Bader play any other sports at Florida besides baseball?
No, Bader focused solely on baseball during his collegiate career after playing multiple sports in high school. He achieved stardom on the diamond for the Gators from 2014-2016.