Michael Harris II: "I was a kid in the outfield just running around, picking flowers and not really paying attention to the game"

Michael Harris II is one of the hottest young prospects in MLB. The 2022 National League Rookie of the Year looks the part of a big league player. Harris II is one of the league's most sought-after players, but it looks as if the 21-year-old is destined to remain in Atlanta.

The Atlanta Braves recently released a documentary on their rising star. "Michael Harris II: The Dream and the Journey," as it is appropriatley titled, is the story of one of Georgia's most talented ballplayers. The 20-minute documentary walks us through the life of Harris II and the obstacles and hardships he faced on the path to becoming a big league player.

Harris II spoke about his earliest memory of the game in the documentary:

"I was a kid in the outfield just running around, picking flowers and not really paying attention to the game."

The footage is available in a recent MLB article about the release of the documentary.

"The @Braves Rookie of the Year is inspiring the next generation. Stream "Michael Harris II: The Dream and the Journey" here: https://atmlb.com/3xaKZBu" - MLB

Harris II was bullied during his little league days as he was constantly focused on picking flowers instead of the game. Eventually, Harris blossomed into one of the country's top prospects.

Harris was always an Atlanta guy, which made it that much more fitting when he was drafted by the Braves in the 2019 draft. The left-hander eventually made his debut in the MLB in 2022.

Michael Harris II won the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2022

Michael Harris II hits a home run in the eighth inning against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park

The Atlanta Braves have done an examplery job of producing, scouting, and developing young talent. Harris II is another example of that. After working his way up the farm system, he finally earned his opportunity in the majors in May 2022.

"Coming this February…'Michael Harris II: The Dream and the Journey' http://YouTube.com/braves | @MoneyyyMikeee" - Atlanta Braves

Harris had a .297/.339/.514 slash line during his rookie season. He hit 19 home runs and 64 RBIs in 114 games.

Instead of spending big money this offseason, the Braves have focused on retaining and promoting talent from within their system. Michael Harris will be a key member of the roster that will look to compete with the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies.