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Royals Veteran Battling Back To Big Leagues

After making it to the majors, a back injury sidelined Mitch Maier. He is now working his way back up starting with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals.

SPRINGDALE (KFSM)-It was back in 2006 the last time Mitch Maier played Double A baseball. Now, he's back once again.

Maier played in the majors from 2008 to 2013. But while playing with the Red Sox last year, it was nothing but a string of back injuries.

"I got to spring training and was unable to play, and therefore opted to have surgery," Maier said. "So, I had a microdiscectomy and been rehabbing since."

Maier will have a chance to work his way back up to the Royals roster. But now, he has to start all over again back in the minor leagues.

"It's tough. It's a grind every day no matter where you're at playing this game. I'm just blessed to be feeling better now, and get a chance to continue playing and continue my career. When healthy I know I can play at that level. So, it's just a matter of making sure I'm healthy, and getting the at bats and reps I need to be able to produce."

He also has to stay patient. It's been eight years since Maier payed at the Double A level. He's taking it not only as a learning experience, but a walk down memory lane.

"It was good. Just like I said, to see them learn here at this level. Reflecting back when I was here, you know the progression of learning at every level. That's what these kids are going through, and to see them get better is pretty cool."

And he's hoping one day he can get back to that major league roster.

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