NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Harrison Ray was one of two seniors on the Vanderbilt baseball team this spring that was gunning to repeat as national champions. They didn't get the chance to defend their title, Ray continued to display the skill, sportsmanship and spirit that made him a champion on and off the field during his time on West End.
It’s those traits that helped Ray take home “Mr. Commodore” honors at the Vanderbilt athletics awards. And it’s why we honor him with this Curtain Call.
. He hit .276 with 38 RBI and led the team with 21 stolen bases in 24 attempts.
He flashed some spectacular moments in the postseason, including a 3-5 performance in the SEC Championship game and a fantastic diving catch to seal a win over Louisville in the College World Series that sent the Commodores to the finals.
After not getting drafted, Ray returned to West End for his senior year. He was again leading the team in stolen bases, and tied for the team lead in RBI, when the season was called.
But the Florida native was far more than just a baseball player at Vanderbilt. Ray volunteered his time with students at Buena Vista Elementary School in North Nashville. He also spent hours helping with tornado relief in the surrounding neighborhood in the days after the March 3rd storm.
Ray was as team captain for Dancing Dores, an annual event raises funds for the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital. With his help, the 13-hour event contributed $43,000.
Ray, who has the option of coming back to school for another year of eligibility or pursuing his professional baseball dreams, recently penned a letter to Vanderbilt fans titled, “Thank you, Commodore Nation.” Besides showing his heartfelt appreciation for the many people who have helped him during his time at Vandy, Ray also showed a mature appreciation for what the many ups and downs of his journey have taught him.
"You don’t control this thing called life, you can’t question the man above and you can never forget the people who love and support you,” Ray wrote. “Please remember that you are exactly where you need to be and that there is a reason for what you are going through."
Ray closed with a special thanks to head coach Tim Corbin and his family, who he says helped make Nashville a second home for him.
Come home any time, Harry Ray. We’ll leave the light on for you.
