Snelling's List

This was on MILB.com. I knew ex-Rattler Chris Snelling had a problem staying healthy. I didn't know that it started before he ever put on a pro baseball uniform.

Snelling trying to avoid injury bug

Outfielder Chris Snelling has been injury-prone all of his life. As a 2-year-old, his right big toe was smashed after his brother slammed the door on it. Minor surgery had to be performed.

Snelling once broke his arm after diving into an empty swimming pool trying to retrieve a basketball.

While playing "putt-putt golf," Snelling's friend once tried to knock his hat from his head with the club. Instead, the friend busted Snelling's head wide open.

After signing with the Mariners in 1999, Snelling continued his bad luck with the injury bug during his eight years in professional baseball. He has had 10 surgeries, including seven on his left knee. He originally hurt the knee in 2002, tearing his ACL while trying to stop at third base.

Snelling heads into the 2007 season in competition with three others for the starting job in left for the Nationals. Typical Snelling response to a question about the situation:

"I don't think of it as competing," Snelling said. "I think it's everybody wearing the same uniform and going for one goal, and that's it. We don't make those decisions. If we did, it wouldn't be fun. That's why you have other people making those decisions for you."

The Nationals are in Milwaukee May 7-9, while the Rattlers are in South Bend and Midland. You have my permission to head to Miller Park to see Snelling play. I'll expect a full report.