30 Players in 30 Days: Willie Harris

Willie Harris

Willie Harris has always been a fan favorite because of his easy going personality and his ability on the field. The versatile utility player saw plenty of action this year, appearing in 137 games and showing that, with regular play, he can be a productive member of the team.

As he has done throughout most of his career, Harris came off the bench to pinch hit, pinch run and as a defensive sub in 2009. He started a combined 82 games at second base, third base and all three outfield positions this season. While his favorite position is second base, his speed and range rank him among the best Nationals outfielders so he spent the majority of his time in center field when Nyjer Morgan went down with an injury.

While Harris couldn’t match his career season last year (.251/.344/.417), he came pretty close to it this season, batting .235/.364/.393. Harris, 31, can still move on the basepaths. Last season, he stole 13 bases with 16 attempts, a success rate of 81.25%. This year he stole 11 bases with 15 attempts, a rate of 73.33%.

Harris has a great attitude for the game, which makes him so easy to cheer for. He is a team player that can always be counted on for a few good laughs. The Nationals have Harris signed through next season, so you can look forward to him adding that spark off of the bench again next year.