The New York Yankees strike again as they lead the charge
not only on the field but off the field as well. A 10-year old boy named Landis
Sims was born without hands or lower legs but that did not stop him from
realizing his dream to be a member of the New York Yankees. The team, often
called the “Evil Empire” by some in Boston and around the country, signed Sims
to a one-day contract this week and invited him to spring training game. The
fourth grader watched some of his idols take batting practice and participate
in spring camps as a part of the team.
Sims uses a prosthetic, which dons Derek Jeter’s #2 by the
way, to play second base in his school in Elizabeth, Indiana and doesn’t let
his 4’7” frame slow him down. Landis uses a football shinguard in his glove to
field and uses a prosthetic attachment to help him hold the bat while hitting
and even played Little League in recent years with the devices.
The best part of it all though? Besides being an
inspiration, making a few people cry and living out his lifelong dream? He
received a signed bat from Alex Rodriguez that was signed “to a great
teammate.” From one inspiration to another. Well done New York, well done.
