Mark Prior Still Hopeful of Comeback

Mention the name Mark Prior to a baseball fan, and you're sure to bombarded with a wide range of strong opinions. Some think he's soft, some become angry, some remember just how good he was in 2003 and still others take the opportunity to mock him. As if this is the path he wanted.

Earlier this season, Prior was released by the Padres. He's still only 28 years old, but he hasn't thrown a pitch in the majors since 2006. He has never finished a whole season without visiting the disabled list. He just can't find a way to recover health in his once-mighty right arm. Regardless, Prior isn't planning on hanging it up anytime soon.

I haven't given up on my career, by any means," said Prior from his home in San Diego. "I had a setback with my shoulder in May and I totally understand why the Padres decided to release me, because they knew I couldn't pitch this season.

I often find myself thinking Prior has a shot to come back in his thirties as a force like Curt Schilling did if he can ever fix what ails his shoulder. Prior himself says he's watching Pedro Martinez and Chris Carpenter.

"I see how Pedro and Chris have battled back from injuries and I respect what they have done," Prior said. "It also gives me hope.

"I will do everything I can to prepare myself to pitch in the major leagues again. I know I have the ability and I haven't given up on myself in any way."

In case you feel like scoffing at the notion being possible, remember how much innate talent Prior possesses. In 2003, his first full season in the majors, he went 18-6 with a 2.43 ERA and 1.10 WHIP. He compiled 245 strikeouts in 211 1/3 innings. In the playoffs that season, Prior sported a 2.31 ERA in three starts, including a classic complete-game victory in the NLDS where he outdueled Greg Maddux.

After that, though, everything he's done has been marred by injury, even freak ones like when Brad Hawpe crushed Prior's elbow with a line drive.

But he's not giving up.

The man who seemingly performed the now-maligned (in Chicago) towel drill more times in Wrigley Field than he actually took the mound is now refusing to throw in the proverbial towel. Mock him if you must, but he's fought through a ton of adversity. Personally, I hope he finds a way back.