Emeel Salem
by Michael Seale

Before an arm injury ended his season prematurely in 2008, Emeel Salem was leading all of professional baseball in stolen bases while playing outfield for the Columbus Catfish, a minor league affiliate of the American League champion Tampa Bay Rays. He has been listed as one of the brightest prospects in the Rays’ organization. He is also a local product.

Salem, an All-American selection while playing for the University of Alabama before being drafted by Tampa Bay last year, grew up in Mountain Brook, and proudly played his youth baseball in the Mountain Brook Athletics system.

“Despite all of my baseball experiences, my greatest memories occurred during rec league baseball when I was young,” Salem said.

“Playing little league at Mtn. Brook helped shape my career today. I had so much fun playing ball with all of my best friends,” he said.

Salem said he wants to remind younger players to play the game for fun, first and foremost, and not to get “burnt out” by baseball.

“There will be a time when baseball becomes a huge commitment,” Salem said. "There's no reason to rush that process along. One thing I know for sure is that nobody will have prolonged success in this game if they don't enjoy playing.”

He added, “Keep it fun while you're young! You can't earn a scholarship in the 6th grade. Travel ball is making the game too serious at too young of an age. I really would give anything to be able to turn back the clock and relive those years."

Many of Salem’s former teammates and friends here in Mtn. Brook will be tracking his progress this season as he works toward his goal of playing in the Major Leagues.