"I love the seasons", Marlins minor leaguer A.J. Battisto said at a local coffee shop on a particularly chilly and windy day.
He might be talking about Eastern weather, but he could easily be describing his outlook on 2009 as a reliever in the Marlins farm system.
No matter what, the 26 year old remained determined and positive, enjoying each step of what has been his most productive season in terms of opportunities. He began the season with Single A Jupiter, and then spent time with Double A Jacksonville before getting a shot at Triple A New Orleans. He pitched 8 innings at New Orleans before being sent back to Jacksonville. He finished the season with a 2.68 ERA in 168 innings pitched.
"I feel confident in myself, because I'm confident I can throw strikes," he said.
The Marlins continue to develop young talent, and wisely found a way to hold onto Josh Johnson. While they don't have the payroll to take chances, their determination to keep Johnson could indicate a development of their being in contention again. By keeping young talent in the pool, they can also strengthen their future.
Battisto showed his ability to move through the ranks and perform. He adjusted, though he said it wasn't easy. There are differences in facing Double A hitters and Triple A, a fact he learned quickly.
"Physically the guys in Double A, can play in the major leagues. Mentally...that's why they're in Double A," he said. "Triple A, they're older guys and some of them have been to the big leagues. Those guys will out-think you."
His faith has been the constant in his life and he brings that to the teams he plays for. When asked if being the religious guy on the team is sometimes unwelcome, he acknowledged that happens sometimes, but he always tries to reach out in a non-imposing manner.
"Sometimes I do it without [teammates] even knowing," he said. "There was a guy struggling with an injury and I left him a healing prayer at his locker. I didn't let him know it was me. I'm not the type to pressure."
His goal for 2010 is one that will require him to continue to exhibit his patience and faith, as well as his discipline.
"I want to get an invite to big league camp," he said. "And if not, I want to be assigned to Triple A."
Photo courtesy of Greensboro Grasshoppers