Austin Knerr, 12, has cerebral palsy, but don’t think he doesn’t compete on the baseball field

Most baseball players look for distinction on the field — to stand out as the best. For Kirkland’s Austin Knerr, the best thing about baseball is the feeling of fitting in.

Austin, 12, suffers from cerebral palsy. He also just finished his ninth season of baseball.

Austin’s parents weren’t so sure at first that they liked the idea of him playing baseball, but now they’re glad they took the risk.

“A few years ago we didn’t think he’d make it in baseball,” said Karen Knerr, Austin’s mother. “But look at all the trophies in his room and you see anyone can play. And anyone should play. It’s just baseball and that’s what being a kid is all about. I’m so glad we did this.”

Austin played this season with the Giants of the Kirkland National Little League and quickly earned the reputation of “the kid that always smiles.”

He plays in the outfield and at second base, and for one special outing each year, he gets to pitch. Austin’s parents limit him to one pitching appearance per year because his reaction time is slower than normal and it isn’t safe for him on the mound.

But, as Karen said, “Everyone can have their moment out there.”

Austin said playing baseball helps him feel better. It also lets him forget his differences: His favorite part is hanging out with his friends.

Neurologists diagnosed Austin with cerebral palsy when he was eight years old.

Cerebral palsy is neither disease nor genetic disorder, but a condition with many possible causes that leads to physical disability in human development. About 2 in every 1,000 people are affected by the condition.

His parents said the biggest challenges in sports are his reaction time and fine motor skills. They also said Kirkland National has been more than accommodating for Austin over the years.

“They’ve been really good with him, really accepting,” said Brian Knerr, Austin’s father. “We just want to say thanks to Kirkland National.”

Austin also plays soccer and basketball, but baseball is his greatest accomplishment because it’s the biggest challenge.

“Look at that smile,” Karen said. “That’s what Little League is all about.”