Aaron Boone announced his plan in a March press conference to undergo open heart surgery with the intent of one day playing ball again. (AP Photo)
Houston Astros third baseman Aaron Boone faced the possibility in March of never running out on the field wearing a major league uniform again.
The 36-year-old veteran, best known for his game-winning 11th inning home run off Tim Wakefield in Game 7 of the 2003 ALCS, underwent open-heart surgery March 26 to replace a bicuspid aortic valve.
Boone has been aware of his heart condition since childhood, but managed to develop into a standout ballplayer at USC, followed by 11 solid seasons in the big leagues with the Cincinnati Reds, New York Yankees, Cleveland Indians, Florida Marlins and Washington Nationals.
After not tendering an offer to third baseman Ty Wigginton, the Astros signed Boone to a one-year, $750,000 during the offseason as a temporary solution until prospect Chris Johnson assumed the role on a full-time basis.
Unfortunately, Boone has yet to play in a regular season game for the Astros. When he underwent heart surgery in Spring Training, Boone recognized the challenge of one day making it back on the field.
It was unclear whether or not he could resume his career, but Boone went on a mission with the goal of returning to the major leagues by Sept. 1 when active rosters officially expand.
On Aug. 12, it was a remarkable site as Boone returned to baseball for Double-A Corpus Christi for his minor league rehab assignment. Although he went hitless in two at-bats, he was already a winner for beating the odds and playing ball once again.
Boone hit just .200 (3-for-15) with the Hooks before moving up to Triple-A Round Rock, where he's hitless in four at-bats over two games.
According to The Associated Press, it's unclear how Astros manager Cecil Cooper intends to use Boone, who still needs to work on his timing at the plate. One thing's for sure -- expect to see the veteran wearing an Astros uniform the final month of the season.
No stranger to overcoming adversity, Boone has relied on his tremendous work ethic to persevere through his lengthy rehabilitation. He draws strength from exceptional family support, his fans, as well as an Astros organization refusing to shut the door on him.
Boone's refusal to throw in the towel represents a positive influence for all athletes -- past, present and future -- who understand the challenges and frustrations associated with overcoming adversity in their respective sport.
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