February 10, 2008

Mets' Donovan Mitchell Makes Appearance at the Spartan Baseball Clinic

The 3-week Spartan Baseball Winter Clinic concluded with Kingsport Mets (A) manager, Donovan Mitchell speaking to the kids at the final session this past Friday night. Over 40 kids ages 6-12 attended the 6-session clinic. Also teaching and speaking to the kids were former Spartan and currrent Cubs minor league pitcher, John Muller and Spartan Pitching Coach, Brian Aviles, himself a former AA pitcher in the Braves Organization. After spending some time with the youngsters, Mitchell stayed for STAC's indoor hitting practice, giving hitting, bunting, and baserunning instruction to the STAC players.

Mitchell is a native of Westchester, having played high school baseball at Alexander Hamilton. He went on to play college ball at UNC Charlotte, where he and Spartan Head Coach, Scott Muscat met and played together. Mitchell would go on to a 7-year minor league career with the Astros, which included All-Star appearances and two championship rings (AA & AAA). After hanging up the spikes he put on the coaching turfs and has spent the last ten years serving in N.Y. Mets Organization in various coaching positions including his most recent stint as the Kingsport Mets (A) manager. Donovan, his wife, and two kids currently reside in Westchester.