Willie Harris, known for his speed and defensive skills, played Major League Baseball primarily as an outfielder and second baseman. Born on June 22, 1978, in Cairo, Georgia, Harris attended Kennesaw State University before being drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the 24th round of the 1999 MLB Draft. His journey through the minor leagues eventually led to his MLB debut with the Orioles in 2001.
Harris's time with the Orioles was brief, and he was traded to the Chicago White Sox in 2002. It was with the White Sox that he began to gain more attention. In 2005, Harris played a role in the White Sox's World Series-winning season. Although not a regular starter, his speed and ability to play multiple positions made him a valuable asset off the bench. He appeared in 56 games that season, contributing with timely hits and stolen bases.
After his stint with the White Sox, Harris moved to the Boston Red Sox in 2006, though his time there was short-lived. The following year, he signed with the Atlanta Braves, where he enjoyed one of his best seasons. In 2007, Harris played in 117 games, achieving a .270 batting average and stealing 17 bases. His performance that year included a memorable game against the St. Louis Cardinals, where he went 6-for-6, showcasing his hitting ability.
Harris continued his career with the Washington Nationals, signing with them in 2008. Over three seasons with the Nationals, he became known for his defensive prowess and speed on the bases. In 2008, he hit a career-high 13 home runs and stole 13 bases, demonstrating his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively.
In 2011, Harris joined the New York Mets, where he played primarily as a utility player. His experience and versatility allowed him to fill various roles as needed. The following year, he signed with the Cincinnati Reds, appearing in 25 games before being released mid-season.
Throughout his career, Harris was recognized for his speed, accumulating 107 stolen bases. His ability to play multiple positions made him a valuable player for several teams. While he may not have been a household name, his contributions to the teams he played for were appreciated by teammates and coaches alike.
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