MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – Former Boston Red Sox Bernie Carbo has seen his fair share of trouble, but that was way back when. Carbo has done a complete 180. This weekend, Carbo hosts a fantasy baseball camp in Mobile.
Theodore resident Bernie Carbo was a World Series hero for the Boston Red Sox in 1975. But shortly after, he fell into a lifestyle that was anything but heroic.
“I went through the alcohol, the drugs, the anger, the bitterness. I was addicted to anything you can possibly be addicted to. I wanted to die,” admitted Carbo.
But through faith, family, and time, Carbo changed his ways. For the last 13 years, Carbo’s hosted a fantasy baseball camp to share his love of the game, and of God.
“To be used by God, to watch people come to the Lord, it’s better than hitting that home run in the ’75 World Series,” confides Carbo. “Guaranteed. 10 times, 100 times over!”
More than 30 players from across the country have come to this year’s camp. Most of them leave inspired.
“I wanted to come back and experience the fellowship and the joy,” said Dr. Robert Patacsil, who makes his seconds straight appearance at the camp. “Ever since that day, I’ve had this warmth in my heart, and I’d like to see the warmth in everybody’s heart, as well.”
“To go through the things that he went through, to raise himself back up through the help of God, these are the types of stories we need to hear more of these inspirational stories that lead people to better themselves,” second-year camper Tony Gordon added.
“I’ve come a long way in my life,” said Carbo. “There’s a peace. I’m really enjoying myself, and I’m having fun.”
This year’s guest speaker is Rico Petrocelli, who played 13 seasons for the Red Sox.