Viral T-Ball Moment Puts Spotlight on Rare Birth Condition

A viral video from Yale, Oklahoma, is capturing hearts across the country—showing a young t-ball player being pushed around the bases in his wheelchair after hitting his first home run. But the story behind the celebration is even more powerful.

What Is a Unilateral Clubfoot?

Clubfoot is a congenital condition in which a baby’s foot is twisted out of shape or position. In unilateral clubfoot, only one foot is affected. The condition occurs in about 1 in every 1,000 live births, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Boys are twice as likely to be born with clubfoot than girls.

While the exact cause is unknown, treatment usually begins shortly after birth and often includes a series of casts, stretching, and sometimes surgery. For many children, early intervention leads to a high quality of life and full mobility—but recovery can be long and emotionally challenging.

Pro Athletes Who Overcame Clubfoot

Despite the challenges, many children with clubfoot go on to lead active lives—and even reach the highest levels of athletic achievement.

NFL Hall of Famer Troy Aikman, Olympic soccer legend Mia Hamm, and MLB pitcher Larry Picollo were all born with clubfoot. With early treatment and determination, they each went on to build successful athletic careers.

Their stories echo the resilience seen in 6-year-old Baker Teter.

Baker’s Journey From Surgery to Home Plate

Baker Teter was born with unilateral clubfoot and started treatment when he was just two weeks old. He’s been through dozens of casts, multiple surgeries, and most recently, a procedure to correct a leg-length discrepancy caused by the condition.

“He’s a resilient, tough little dude,” said Baker’s mom and t-ball coach, Fancy Teter. “But it’s been tough watching him sit out.”

Although Baker couldn’t play in his most recent game due to a full-leg cast, he still made the highlight reel. After hitting a home run, one of his best friends pushed him around the bases in his wheelchair, cheered on by teammates and families.

“By the time they made it to third base, I actually had tears in my eyes,” Fancy said. “I wasn’t ready for that.”

Looking Ahead

Baker’s doctors are still monitoring the difference in his leg lengths, and more procedures could be ahead. But his family is hopeful this latest surgery will be his last.