Why Did Diamondbacks Draft a Paralyzed Player? Cory Hahn’s Inspiring Story Goes Viral Amid 2024 Trailblazer Award

Cory Hahn’s baseball story began at Mater Dei High School. Predicted with great potential, Cory joined the Team USA squad that clinched the gold medal with talents like Bryce Harper and Manny Machado. The 33-year-old was selected by the San Diego Padres in 2010 but decided to attend Arizona State University instead to pursue further studies. However, unexpectedly, Hahn’s journey took a turn during a college game when a headfirst slide into second base led to a collision with the second baseman, resulting in him facing paralysis from the chest down.

Suffering a C5 spinal cord injury, doctors informed Cory Hahn that he would possibly never walk again. But the athlete’s determination remained unbroken as he moved from playing on the field to coaching in the dugout as a student coach for the Sun Devils. As a coach, Hahn impressed the Arizona Diamondbacks team managers, laying the foundation for his future during the 2013 MLB Draft and choosing him in the 34th round as a tribute to his jersey number at ASU.

The moment that changed everything for Cory Hahn

Hustleoutthebox posted a throwback video on Instagram, in which they explained Cory Hahn’s inspirational journey and the Diamondbacks’ role in it: “The Diamondbacks, who were set to hire Hahn, did something very special during the 2013 draft, picking him in the 34th round—a special moment as that’s the number he wore in college. Cory Hahn has spent nearly 10 years in the Diamondbacks organization in various roles and is currently an executive who recently took home Baseball America’s Trailblazer of the Year award.

“He, along with current big leaguer and former teammate Trevor Williams, has co-founded Project 34, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising money and awareness for people with spinal cord injuries.” the post further read. After completing his studies, Cory Hahn entered the Diamondbacks administrative team and began a career that lasted over ten years. Cory now holds the role of Assistant Director of Player Personnel, where he manages scouting activities that enhance the team’s performance.

Furthermore, Hahn’s achievements align with his dedication to philanthropy. A few years back, Hahn and his former colleague from ASU, Trevor Williams, established Project 34, a charity aimed at assisting people with spinal cord injuries. The campaign has collected over $600K in funds to offer support and optimism to numerous people dealing with comparable difficulties.

Following this, in 2024, Baseball America honored Hahn as the Trailblazer of the Year in recognition of his journey, both on and off the field. Amidst a series of coaching adjustments, the Diamondbacks congratulated him as he continued to be involved in their baseball operations, advocating for inclusivity. A few years after joining the D-backs, Hahn also started raising awareness about spinal cord injuries through his organization, Project 34.

Cory Hahn expanding his vision: shaping a better future

Hahn’s Project 34 flourishes by engaging with the community to assist people dealing with spinal cord injuries. With the help of fundraising activities, including periodic events like charity auctions, benefit dinners, and sporting competitions, the organization plays a role in uniting locals and members in support of this cause. They also promote participation through volunteer opportunities for individuals willing to share their skills and time effectively.

Hahn started his 2018 by welcoming this nonprofit organization in Phoenix, Arizona. To give it a personal touch he named it after the jersey number 34 that he wore as a collegiate athlete. The project gained further momentum through a series of events, including “Dingers in the Desert” a charitable home derby held at Pheonix Municipal Stadium.

Ranging from event assistance to online awareness campaigns, the Project 34 venture enables supporters to engage actively in its mission and goals. Its social media presence has created a network of advocates sharing stories of hope; this combination of local events and digital outreach ensures the project’s mission resonates with a wider audience.

In essence, Cory Hahn’s journey from tragedy to success reflects the power of his purpose. Through his project funds, he has supported many spinal cord injury survivors. Further, his 2024 achievements cemented his legacy as a beacon of hope for future generations.