Carlisle Pitcher Gunner Baker Recovers from Devastating Injury to Return to the Field [VIDEO]

[By Ryan Peterson, KLTV 7]

PRICE -- Carlisle pitcher Gunner Baker didn't know if he'd ever play baseball again. He was lying in a hospital bed. Doctors told him he could lose his leg.

"It made me more appreciative of the game, of life, of my legs," Baker said. "It changed everything for me. It made me put things into perspective."

Last October, Baker suffered a serious leg injury during an Indians football game.

After visiting the emergency room the next day, doctors discovered a condition called compartment syndrome.

Baker had two surgeries, as doctors worked to save his left leg. The family hoped for a complete recovery.

About four months later, Baker will be ready for baseball opening day.

"After I got past recovering from taking the stitches out, it's been good," Baker said. "It actually helped me because I didn't have to go straight from football to baseball."

Baker, who just committed to Hill Junior College, has exceeded expectations. The Indians star baseball player feels better than ever.

"I've had more time to gain weight and I'm coming in way heavier than last year," Baker said. "This leg after surgery is bigger and its stronger. I feel about the same, I feel good."

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