Jim Abbott

Major League Pitcher and Gold Medal Olympian

Jim Abbott

Major League Pitcher and Gold Medal Olympian

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Biography

Born without a right hand, Jim Abbott as boy dreamed of becoming a great athlete. Raised in Flint, Michigan by parents who saw in his condition not as a disability but an extraordinary opportunity, Jim would go on to an improbable athletic journey carrying him from Flint onto some of the grandest stages in sports.

Playing football and baseball Jim was a two sport standout at Flint Central High School before attending the University of Michigan where he would become a 3 year starter, earning All Big Ten and All American honors. As a collegiate player Jim was named the Golden Spikes Award winner and also the Sullivan Award winner which is given to the top amateur athlete in the United States.

While in college Jim would also play on two USA Baseball teams, first the Pan American Team, where he carried the U.S. flag in the opening ceremonies at the Indianapolis Speedway, and then the following summer traveling to the Olympics in Seoul Korea where he would pitch a complete game 5-3 victory over Japan for a Gold Medal.

Professionally, Jim was selected in the 1st round of the MLB draft in 1989. He would go on to play ten Major League seasons for the Angels, Yankees, White Sox and Brewers.
In 1991 Jim finished 3rd in the American League Cy Young voting and in 1993 Jim would pitch a 4-0 No-Hitter for the New York Yankees in Yankee Stadium.

Jim retired from baseball in 1999 and has spent large portions of his time supporting and advocating for those in the limb difference community. Jim Abbott’s story serves as encouragement for all that is possible in the face of great odds.

Jim and his family spend time in Southern California and Northern Michigan.

Speaker Videos

Misfortune as a Gift

A.D.A.P.T. Excerpt

Finding a Different Way of Doing Things

Improbable Dream

Never Make Excuses

See Fewer Videos

Speech Topics

A.D.A.P.T.: Overcoming Adversity

Jim Abbott was born with one hand, but learned to adapt to his situation, eventually going on to become a Major League Baseball pitcher. In an amazingly inspirational speech, Abbott teaches that, in order to move toward our goals, we must be willing to adapt: to change and mold ourselves in order to meet the obstacles in our own way. Using ADAPT (Adjustability, Determination, Accountability, Perseverance, Trust) as an acronym, Abbott strings together a powerful set of words that provide a framework for audiences as they strive to reach their full potential. Audiences will walk away inspired, motivated, and ready to ADAPT to any challenge that stands in their way.

Imperfect: An Improbable Life

Testimonials

"Jim was absolutely fabulous. Everyone loved him. His presentation was a perfect start to our meetings. It really pumped everyone up. Everyone is still talking about how great it was to have him here. They were really impressed. When Jim spoke, you could hear a pin drop in the room because everyone was 100 percent focused on what he had to say and he has a great message that is appropriate for anyone to hear."

- LASON Inc.

"Jim, I've been producing events like these for over 20 years. In that period of time I have NEVER experienced the deafening silence in a crowd that large, all of whom had their minds, hearts, and souls transfixed on your speech. You touched the hearts of each and every person on the Civic Center, and your message of adaptability, determination, and trust is now embossed on the spirits of hundreds of community leaders. The e-mails and voicemails filled with kudos and praise have been unending since the meeting this morning. You’re going to be a VERY tough act to follow."

- United Way

"Jim was well received by all who attended the banquet. Despite the trying time getting to Greenville and having to sleep in the airport, he remained very pleasant and easy going. I am so glad Jim Abbott decided to come to Greenville and be our motivational speaker. WOW! We have heard nothing but positive comments. I don't know how late Jim stayed after the banquet, but he signed numerous baseballs and programs for all who wanted his signature at no extra charge. He really is quite incredible."

- Eastern Carolina Vocational Center

"He was wonderful—everyone said how great he was—our top people were so impressed. He gave inspiring words, not trying to be funny at every other remark, and instead was humorous throughout. He kept their attention and charmed everyone. We loved the reports from our attendees."

- Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame

"Jim Abbott was a great speaker with a fantastic, fascinating, and inspirational story to tell. He was funny, engaging, and an inspiration, and he kept the group's attention through the entire presentation and question-and-answer session. Many in our group enjoyed Jim as much as our presentation by John Wooden. Thank you for making our convention one that we will remember for a long time."

- Fosters Freeze

"It is a pleasure to work with such a famous athlete who delivers such a relevant and motivational message. Jim Abbott represents the kind of role model we would like to see in all of our professional athletes."

- Epicor Software

"Jim was very well received. EVERYONE just adored him. His talk was great and the feedback on the conference evaluations concurred that people enjoyed him. We would invite him back anytime to speak! The way he presents the ADAPT concept is a great way to motivate with information."

- Wyoming Associations for Persons in Supported Employment (WAPSE)

"Jim was one of our best speakers. His message was upbeat and well delivered. We enjoyed him very much. We would have him back!"

- Johnson & Wales University