For York Dragons baseball player Garrison Garrett, baseball has been about determination.
Garrett said he first fell in love with the game around six years old, when his dad introduced him to youth leagues like Cal Ripken and Babe Ruth. From there, he added travel ball to his schedule, building a foundation that has carried him through four years at York Institute.
“I would definitely say I’m one of the smaller people,” Garrett said. “I’ve always been a smaller kid, so I would definitely say being small has made me want to push myself more to get better.”
Now a senior, Garrett splits time between shortstop, catcher, and pitcher. Garrett said his newest challenge came last season when he transitioned from second base to shortstop, a move that required adjustments.
“I definitely feel I’m the captain of the infield when I’m playing short,” Garrett said. “I had to work at being quicker to the ball.”
Garrett said the switch meant developing arm strength and taking on a leadership role in the field. As the middle infielder, Garrett said he has become more vocal, helping direct teammates and control the pace of the game.
Behind the plate, Garrett brings years of experience. Catching for the past six seasons, Garrett said he credits the position with sharpening his understanding of hitters and game strategy.
“Sometimes I’ll start them off with a fastball,” Garrett said. “If I start them off with a curveball, just see how they react to that and the way they swing, their timing, and all that.”
Garrett said he has gained about four miles per hour since he began pitching and has been clocked as high as 79 mph on the radar gun. Garrett said he is aiming to hit 84 mph before his high school career comes to an end.
Across multiple positions and seasons, Garrett has carved out a consistent presence for York. His ability to adapt from second base to shortstop, from catcher to pitcher mirrors the work ethic that has defined his journey.