How to Persevere: The Story of Cubs Catcher Koyie Hill

Koyie Hill was a star third baseman at Wichita State University.  So much so, that he was named to the USA team where he acted as a utility infielder.  In 2003, Hill made his debut in the majors for the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he was now a catcher, but behind All-Star Paul Lo Duca.  Because the Dodgers already had an All-Star catcher, Hill was traded to the Diamondbacks for veteran Steve Finley.  He was somewhat of a disappointment given the hype the trade brought with him, and his 2004 campaign was cut short due to a broken ankle suffered in a collision at home plate.

In 2005, coming off injury, Hill was named the starting catcher of the D-Backs.  His season was plagued by poor offense, and he platooned with Chris Snyder at the catcher position for the majority of the 2005 campaign.  When the 2006 season came, the Arizona Diamondbacks had acquired catcher Johnny Estrada, and Hill had to battle it out in spring training with Snyder to be the backup.

Hill had a great camp, but was placed on waivers, claimed by the New York Yankees, and a very short stint with the Yanks landed Hill in Free Agency.  On November 16th, 2006, Hill signed a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs.

In 2007, the Cubs were having major catcher issues, and Hill was brought up to replace the injured Henry Blanco, and suspended Michael Barrett.

On October 16th, 2007, Hill's life changed forever.  He was cutting wood for a window frame, and the wood got caught in the table saw, dragging his hand with it.  Hill completely severed his thumb, and partially but severely cut off three other fingers on his right hand.  Hill was somehow able to maintain the fingers long enough to have them all re-attached, and he began a tiresome therapy.

After many months of this therapy, Hill regained motion in all of his fingers.  Hill rejoined the Cubs' minor league affiliates for the 2008 season, and has climbed back into the major leagues.  In the Cubs' 14-9 victory over the Reds on Saturday night, Hill drove in a run and played a solid catcher.

Hill has proven that nothing is impossible.  Even with major setbacks, if you really want it, you can achieve it.