Otis Nixon, who grew up amid the farmlands of Evergreen, followed an early dream that led to a major-league baseball career that spanned 17 seasons.

There were some big years in the majors for the West Columbus High School graduate and some truly memorable moments.

In 1990 while playing for Montreal Expos, he set the single-game stolen base record with six swipes. In 1992 with the Braves, he made one of the most publcized catches in major-league history when he made a high-leaping grab at the centerfield fence that robbed the Pirates’ Andy Van Slyke of a three-run homer in a key mid-season game. There was a big appearance in the 1992 World Series with the Braves.

The skinny kid from the rural southeastern North Carolina, who was a three-sport standout at West Columbus, had done his area proud. His younger brother Donell followed suit and also enjoyed a stint in the major-league baseball.

A SWITCH-HITTING LEAD-OFF hitter, Nixon was noted for his outstanding speed. He stole more bases during the 1990s than any other player and had a career total of 620 steals. His lifetime batting average was .270, and he averaged more than one run scored for each two games he played.

He played outfield for 10 different teams, and every city where he played embraced him for the solid rapport he had with his teammates, team management and the fans. Just as he had been regarded from his youth and high school days in Columbus County, Otis Nixon was always noted as a very kind and caring individual.

Yet, Nixon’s career also had a dark side, and because of it, he was twice placed on suspensions that came close to costing him that coveted career. His problem was drug abuse … the first time in 1984 while with the Cleveland Indians and the second with the Braves in 1991. The second came when he failed a random drug test that kept him out the league playoffs and the World Series.

But Nixon, now 47, was able to battle his way out of his troubles and found forgiveness and redemption in the game he played. Even before his career was over, Nixon set out to work with others to keep them from a dead-end existence.

He, more than anyone, knew he had a problem, and he wanted to correct it while making others aware of the pitfalls and dangers of drug and alcohol abuse.

HE STARTED A PROGRAM in Atlanta called “Three Strikes,” aimed primarily toward teenagers and young adults that is an awareness program dealing with the harm and devastation of drug addiction.

“I was lucky enough to get a second and third chance,” said Nixon, who continues to reside in Atlanta. “Not everybody is as fortunate. That’s why I feel I have so much to share.”

Nixon rededicated his life to Christ and for the past 10 years he has ministered to the lost and down-trodden.

He now heads spiritual organization called ON-Track Ministries in which he helps provide aid and hope for the lost and destitute.

“The Lord helpedme during a big transitional period and a spiritual awakening which blessed me and set me free from drug and alcohol bondage.

“This freedom allows me to help the hurting, the homeless and the rejected.”

NIXON HAS AUTHORED a book entitled, “Keeping It Real.” It is expected to be released in early 2007.

Because of his strong community work, Nixon has been called on to chair the “Check It Now” program of the battle against prostate cancer.

The program encourages adults, especially middle-aged men, to be checked for prostate cancer, since early detection is vital in combating the disease.

“Some people might think that things slow down some after retirement from baseball, but I’m as busy as ever and am really excited about what lies ahead.

Donell Nixon was drafted by the Seattle Mariners in 1980, and played several seasons in the majors, including the 1989 World Series with the San Francisco Giants. He is now CEO of the “Strike Three” program.

OTIS NIXON

Born Jan. 9, 1959, in Columbus County, Resided in Evergreen.

Graduated from West Columbus High School, 1977; Louisburg College, 1979.

Drafted by the New York Yankees in the first round of the 1979 secondary draft.

Made major-league debut on Sept. 9, 1983 with Yankees. Retired following the 1999 season at age 40, having played 17 seasons with 10 teams.

Played outfield for the Yankees (1983), Cleveland Indians (1984-87); Montreal Expos (1988-90); Atlanta Braves (1991-93); Boston Red Sox (1994); Texas Rangers (1995); Toronto Blue Jays (1996-97); Los Angeles Dodgers (1997); Minnesota Twins (1998); Atlanta Braves (1999).

Became one of the most prolific base-stealers in major-league history with 620 career steals.

Older brother of former major league Donell Nixon.