South Portland’s Greg Norton named Maine’s Mr. Baseball

BANGOR – Even as visibly awed as he was while eyeing the latest addition to his family’s trophy collection, recent South Portland High School graduate Greg Norton could think of one other thing he’d trade it for.

The winner of the 11th annual Dr. John Winkin Award as Maine’s Mr. Baseball barely paused as he answered where this award ranks among the many he has won in his still-young career on the diamond.

“I had an inkling I might have a chance to win this, but not really… I’m surprised,” said Norton. “It’s probably my biggest accomplishment so far as a baseball player, but I’d trade it in for a state championship.”

Norton will still have plenty of opportunities for championships as he has accepted a scholarship to play for the team Winkin himself led to national recognition and the College World Series – the University of Maine.

The hard-throwing righthander, who led South Portland to four straight tournament appearances, has been a stalwart in the Riots’ lineup for the last three seasons. His primary positions were pitcher and first base in high school, although he’s unsure which role he’ll primarily fill with the Black Bears.

“It was a hard decision to make, but Maine was always right up there. I’m really looking forward to playing with the other kids from Maine,” Norton said. “They had a really good year this year, and hopefully we can improve on that.”

Norton beat out fellow Mr. Baseball finalists Jason Harvey of Bucksport, who will join his older brother Craig – the Mr. Baseball award winner two years ago – at Husson College in Bangor, where he plans to play baseball and basketball; Cony of Augusta’s Sean Brawn; and Monmouth Academy’s Tip Fairchild.