There’s something about a minor league rehab assignment that creates extra excitement around any MiLB ballpark. Most days, some teams may fudge the numbers a little to show they had higher attendance. Others regularly enjoy a strong turnout, especially on nights with popular promotions. But when a major league player comes to town on his road to recovery from injury, even more fans come out. It’s a smaller setting, more intimate, and, of course, easier on the wallet.
There’s something different going on in the Mets organization, a new way to draw ‘em in this season, and his name (have you heard?) is Tim Tebow.
What do we make of all this? Well, many hate the whole damn thing. Many players, particularly minor leaguers, have voiced their displeasure, not so much at his pursuit of a dream, but how it trickles down to impact MiLB players trying so hard for a shot. At 29, Tebow, a former football star, is somehow in the same boat with them. Seems unbalanced, sure; who can blame their frustration and distrust of the entire “experiment?” Fans have also voiced their displeasure. Traditionalists who love the game find it ridiculous, those who cover the game, some who are fans with independent blogs, have been passionately pissed off about Tebow getting through the door, in what they see as unfair advantage because the Mets see an opportunity to make money. Don’t fault the Mets minor league affiliates for kicking up their heels on this one, because this is where they make their money. They need moments like this, and they don’t come around that often.
But to the players who may hate this, who are quietly stewing or have been very vocal, and to those being supportive of Tebow’s dream, a moment has arrived for you too.
When Tebow makes his debut with the Low-A Columbia Fireflies, there will be players who’ve come off their first professional season; some ranked higher in the system, others will be fighting to stay healthy and in the mix, so as not to be forgotten after the next draft. They’re all scraping and scrapping though. They know there are no guarantees. The truth of it is, there’s no guarantee for Tebow either. His success isn’t a guaranteed gimmick, even if his being in baseball works as one for the Mets. He too will be working to get an opportunity.
The difference, of course, is that Tebow will be soaking up the spotlight in a way a low-level, barely known prospect can’t. He’ll bring big media to the ballpark and the headlines will go to him, more often than not. But, boys, those cameras aren’t allergic to you. And when the story is written, your name in the Tebow story takes on new meaning.
If you’re the guy that hits behind or ahead of him, you’re in the story. If you do something big while he’s on base, you’re in there. If you’re pitching to him, and you kick his famous butt out of that batter’s box, and bonus if you do it big, you’ll hear your name. If you make a play that puts him out, maybe even a spectacular play, you get more attention. You’ll get a little more of the spotlight than you would have at the lowest levels of the bus leagues.
This may be cold comfort. Many minor league players are still barely getting by and that counts for a lot. Plenty of players have quit early on in their careers because they just couldn’t see living that way too many more years. Tebow won’t have those concerns. He has built-in perks. But his fame is to the advantage of many in the minor leagues, and most definitely that includes players.
So to minor leaguers, take full advantage of his advantage. When you step into the batter’s box or on the mound or take your position, play it for all it’s worth; smile. You’re on Tebow camera.
Matt Imhof didn't need much more than his fastball to dominate Lakeland's lineup Thursday.
The lefty worked his fastball without feeling the need to mix in much secondary stuff past the 1st inning; through 6 innings, he allowed just 3 hits, walked 2, and struck out a season high 7 batters.
"The key thing was establishing fastball away," Imhof said. "I also had a better mindset than the last couple of starts."
He's recovered from a bicep strain that set him back. He was placed on the DL in April, and although there were concerns about his development, Clearwater manager Greg Legg sees vast improvement, particularly in that last start.
"He's normally a fastball/changeup/Slider pitcher. Last night it was more fastballs," Legg said. "He's working on command, and did a good job with it Thursday. He's come along. This is his first full season this year, and it's been a bit of a process. He's trusting his fastball. There were arm issues earlier this year, but he's feeling better now. He's starting to work on his two-seamer. But he didn't need the changeup the other night. He commanded the fastball to both sides of the plate."
The Phillies selected Imhof in the 2nd round of the 2014 June MLB Draft out of Cal Poly, and he finished his final collegiate season going 99 innings, striking out 124, good for 6th most in NCAA Division 1.
In his first professional season, he saw time at three levels, pitching a combined 42 innings, striking out 40, and walking just 11 batters through 11 starts. While he seemed to make the transition to pro ball rather smoothly, he was getting acclimated to all the new expectations.
"I was getting used to a new environment. It takes me a little while to get comfortable with the catchers and teammates. The biggest challenge for me was getting used to a five man rotation. I was only in the New York Penn League a few weeks but it helped get my arm ready for game day," said Imhof.
Having had a solid first year professionally, experiencing struggles this year was difficult. At times, he lost his way.
"Yeah, you try not to think about it. But after each outing, you're looking at things, and it's frustrating for sure. You do stuff you wouldn't normally do. You try to throw harder. You try this and that. And you kind of lose confidence in your stuff. That's where I was last month. But I had talks with pitching coordinator Rafael chaves, and out pitching coach Steve Shrenk. And got in a good mindset and did what I needed to do."
After just two years, Imhof has been through a great deal that's tested him mentally and physically. But as the physical has come along, the mental side of his game has improved the most, according to him.
"The biggest thing I've learned is how to have success. I had that in college, and last year. This year was harder. I had to re-learn things I thought I had down. Now I'm sticking with what I know. Whether it's catch-play, workouts, or bullpens. Once I figured out what I need to be successful, began to build off it each time. I'm stronger than I was in spring training. And if you talk to anyone with the Phillies, they'd tell you I'm one hundred percent better than I was in spring training. I didn't come in quite prepared like I needed to be, and now I'm ready for success."
Happy New Year and here's a look at 2015 in MiLB, prospects and potential not yet reached.
MiLB Lawsuit/Petition – Everything will change or nothing will change. But this story leads the way, as the future of Minor League Baseball takes center stage. The 32 MiLBers that are involved in the lawsuit that was filed claim that MiLB pays players low wages, no overtime compensation, and that the CBA is in violation of the law for state and federal wages. At the Baseball Winter Meetings in December, MiLB VP Stan Brand announced that he’ll be petitioning congress sometime this year to add minor league players to the list of jobs that aren’t required to receive minimum wage or overtime wages.
While both sides can make an argument, MLB and Brand’s tone falls flat. Brand calling the lawsuit “perilous” in nature.
“I will ask you to heed the clarion call, man the battle stations and carry the message to Congress loudly and clearly. The value of grassroots baseball and our stewardship of the game needs to be protected against the onslaught of these suits.” Brand said, as reported by Josh Leventhal of Baseball America.
In other news, the average MLB salary went up 3.8 percent in 2014, to $3.2 million. (ESPN)
Bryce Harper/Mark Appel –Harper is the lighting rod to end all lightning rods, but Appel’s story has made waves since he was first drafted, and didn’t sign, with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Both are in a prime spot to prove a lot and live up to the elite prospect status they were branded with early in their careers.
Harper’s personality is often the topic, and, unfortunately, is too often secondary in conversation about his talent and still vast potential. Also taking center stage was the possible grievance hearing, which was avoided, when the Washington Nationals settled with the outfielder on a two-year $7.5 million extension. He missed Natsfest in the midst of that unfolding, creating more issues for fans, and the team, to grapple with. At 21, Harper has a long career ahead of him, and, for all his antics and controversies, is an exciting, interesting player to watch. And, to bottom line it, he could be one of the greats of this generation of players. After all that went down in the bottom half of 2014, his 2015 season is high on the list for anticipated seasons.
Appel’s career has not led him to the majors just yet, but according to …he’s a possibility to make his major league debut in 2015. The 2013 first round pick for the Houston Astros kicked up controversy (not his fault), when he decided to (gasp!) return to finish his education at Stanford University, opting not to sign with the Pirates who drafted him in 2012. Most of the baseball world understood Appel’s strategy: go back to school, wait for boyhood team the Houston Astros to draft him the following year. That’s exactly what happened.
Since then, he’s moved through the minors at a fast clip. He pitched in the Class-A Midwest and Short-A New York Penn Leagues in 2013, moving onto Advanced-A and Double-A levels in 2014. He’s not had the easiest go of it. In 2014, he combined for 83 innings pitched, finishing with a 6.91 ERA, with hitters averaging .319 off of him. He also struck out 78 batters, while walking 24 in 18 starts. The strikeouts are a good sign, but needs to cut down on the walks. He also followed that up with a strong performance in the Arizona Fall League. In one start, he pitched five shutout innings. That brought his scoreless innings streak to twelve.
Here’s what Astros GM Jeff Luhnow told MLB Network Radio in December:
“He’s not that far away, whether it’s 1st or 2nd half of this year, or beginning of 2016, he’ll let us know.”
Yankees System – The end of Derek Jeter’s career is important to many people on so many levels. But his retirement also marks the end of the homegrown New York Yankees story people tend to forget. With closer Mariano Rivera retiring in 2013, and catcher Jorge Posada retiring in 2011, three of the most successful, important Yankees homegrown players are gone.
Through the years, criticizing the Yankees for not developing players in their farm system has been easy, and that’s certainly due to how much they have and how much they can spend to achieve success. Those three players were an exception to the rule to a large extent.
So what now? Where are the Yankees greatest future possibilities?
If you look for the shining hope, the first face you’d see is reliever Dellin Betances. Yes, a reliever. Ok, not exciting enough? Well, he’s one of those what they call ‘elite relievers’, and they’re tough to come by. With Rivera’s departure, Betances has emerged as his replacement, due to the outstanding numbers he put up in 2014. He’d finish the season setting a franchise record in strikeouts with 135 in 90 innings pitched.
Betances is one of another story of three. He’s the only one of ‘The Three B’s – Betances, Andrew Brackman, and Manny Banuelos- who’s pitched to success with the Yankees. Brackman signed as a free agent with the Cincinnati Reds in 2011, and didn’t play in 2013. According to reports he’s pursuing a career in basketball. Banuelos has been plagued by injuries, spending 2014 in Double-A Trenton.
While in Trenton, Betances was an enigma, but an exciting one. On days he pitched well, he looked like a major leaguer. On days he didn’t, his enormous power to the plate looked sloppy, lacking command, and he struggled to throw strikes and keep the walks to a minimum. He’s on the big stage now, and so far, is living up to the Yankees expectations.
In the midst of all that, Shane Green showed up strong for the Yankees last season, finishing with a 5-4 record and a 3.78 ERA.
There are few players in the system close to major league ready, and most would agree there isn’t a lot of high ceiling talent to pick from. They traded power-hitting catching prospect Peter O’Brien to the Diamondbacks in return for veteran INF Martin Prado. They also acquired third baseman Chase Headley and RHP Brandon McCarthy.
The glimmer spots are RHP Luis Severino , as well as power-bat, outfielder Aaron Judge, RHP Ian Clarkin and third baseman, and Eric Jagielo, all drafted in the first round in 2013.
Those players matter, but it’s unclear whether they matter to the Yankees future or as bargaining chips.
So, for now, all eyes are mainly on the (likely) incoming closer.
Drabek’s Future as Reliever – In 2010, Kyle Drabek was considered, and ranked, one of the top prospects in all of baseball. He led the Toronto Blue Jays system as their number one prospect. Much has changed since he’s underwent two Tommy John surgeries, and been used as a starter and reliever.
At the end of the 2010 season, when Drabek was pitching for the Double-A New Hampshire FisherCats, a reporter in the press box said, “What is he even still doing here?” There was a lot written and said at the end of that season among reporters witnessing his progression. His success at the MLB level seemed inevitable. Proving again nobody knows nothing.
Drabek hasn’t been able to achieve that same success in the majors. His prospect value has dropped. He’s now 27. However, his 2014 season showed reason to believe he can contribute much more, though it’s unclear if that’ll be in the majors. In 99 innings, 32 relief appearances and 13 starts, Drabek finished with a 4.18 ERA and 1.47 WHIP, striking out 68 for the Buffalo Bisons. Hitters went from averaging .297 to .272 off of him, when he pitched out of the bullpen. Drabek made two appearances for the Jays, pitching 3 innings , didn’t allow a hit and struck out five.
Drabek’s story reminds us that there’s no blueprint; but also that the story can be re-written. 2015 is perhaps the most crucial season of his career.
Domestic Violence Policy – This one isn’t exactly MiLB related, but the outcome does matter at the minor league level.
That issue was covered here on HOTF a couple of months ago, but there’s reason to hope for a good outcome, mainly because of Joe Torre. Torre’s own Safe At Home Foundation is a leading organization in helping women victimized by domestic violence. It’s also a subject close to the former Yankees manager’s heart, having coming from a home where he’d witnessed domestic violence. Torre testified before the Senate Commerce Committee in early December, proposing a policy that would “make it easier for the commissioner to impose an appropriate level of discipline on players who commit acts of violence or sexual assault and have that discipline be upheld in arbitration.” The new policy is expected to be introduced this year. (ESPN)
Up to this point, minor league players have received mixed messages about MLB’s stance on such issues. In past incidents, they didn’t take disciplinary action, instead decisions were left up to the team if a player was accused of domestic and/or sexual assault. On the other hand, there’s all that pink stuff for breast cancer awareness. There’s also standards about gambling that are practically viewed as biblical, and in the past few years the crackdown and punishment for use of PED’s has gotten tougher.
By creating a policy that makes clear that violence against women won’t be tolerated by MLB, MiLB players are receiving a new, and just as important message about conduct and consequences.
The moment of comfort at the plate finally came for Michael Fransoso as the last few weeks of the season unfolded.
He felt himself getting in that sometimes mysterious zone, where everything was feeling right at the plate. His swing felt more natural. He had a string of home runs over a few games. But it all came to a halt, when a virus hit him hard. Fransoso and other teammates were plagued by flu-like symptoms, but he was particularly affected. He wound up in the emergency room, unable to eat or drink fluids for several days, and when all was said and done, he'd lost eighteen pounds. Eventually, he was diagnosed with a bacterial infection in his lungs. Recovery was slow, but the illness essentially ended what had been a promising season to that point.
"I learned a lot professionally, this year, both on and off the field," he said Monday afternoon. "But once that happened, there was nothing I could do. So I hung around the guys as much as I could. I really tried to just keep my spirits up."
Fransoso needed to keep his spirits up when the season kicked off with difficulty. He struggled at the plate, and, according to him, with issues off the field as well. In 74 games between the New York Penn League and South Atlantic league, 58 of them in the SAL, he hit .248/.357/.390. He got sent back to extended spring training, then found himself back in the NYPL with the Jamestown Jammers, where his professional career began in 2013, after being drafted by the Pirates in the 27th round out of the University of Maine.
Despite his disappointment in response to the demotion, Fransoso embraced the lesson before him.
"I had a lot going through my head. The coach's just told me to take the positives out of the situation and to just try to work on things. I did that as much as possible. I also took the opportunity to help out the younger guys with what I learned from the first year. I got a lot of confidence back."
Part of the struggle, he believes, was in the other challenge he had to face: learning the outfield. Fransoso played second base and shortstop his whole life (he was drafted as a shortstop) but the West Virginia Power had a need, and called on him to fill it.
"In the first series of the year, two of our outfielders got hurt. So I was asked to play in right field. Things got a lot better. Everything started to flow. I was thrown into the outfield and leadoff spot, and it all started to fall into place."
This off-season, he's focused on strengthening further and adding more weight to his 6-0 180 pound frame, but his discussions with the Pirates enlightened him about what more they believe he's capable of.
"I guess they saw some of the home runs and feel there's more potential for power. I'm still going to be trying to hit the ball the other way, but also drive the ball, hit the ball in the gap for some power, keep my hands inside."
After all the obstacles, the tough outfield transition, the hitting and personal struggles, and battling his own body, Fransoso has a singular focus heading into 2015, inspired by the positive results before his season abruptly ended.
"Capitalize."
You can follow Michael Fransoso on Twitter @M_Fransoso
This year I expanded the focus to include how far players social-media reach is. Players that have a big presence on Instagram and/or blog (and, as you’ll see, “vlog”) played a part in the decision process. This is still about the Twitter game. But the more players connect, the bigger their following and impact. And the deeper their connection to their followers, which is what I pay the most attention to (humor is a close second).
Honorable Mentions are expanded and players that don’t tweet often, but bring it when they do, are given a nod. Don’t think of HM’s as less valuable players (wink); they’re all guys whose content I read constantly throughout the year and deserved inclusion. Sometimes their inclusion could be one or two tweets that made me laugh or was just something readers really responded to.
The difficult part was excluding players from the ‘Twenty’ that are still with a professional team or were as early as Spring Training, but weren’t on any roster this season (they were included on HM’s); also difficult was dropping players down that, as entertaining or interesting as they are, aren’t sharing a lot very often. The point of this list is to give a bigger spotlight to minor leaguers that engage and entertain and do that pretty regularly. With Twitter they’re building their own following long before they reach the big leagues.
These are the champs.
1. Cody Decker @Decker6 – He continues his reign at #1 for the second year, doing all the things that endear him to fans and followers. Yet again, he took on a critic questioning his talent, though this time instead of a journalist, it was a Padres fan. He didn’t back down, despite the possibility of rattling a Padres faithful. His daily jokes are as smart as they are creative. “ ‘For every action there is an unequal and opposite overreaction.’ Newtons Third Law of Ex Girlfriends.” Earlier this season he anchored the sports desk for KTSM in El Paso, Texas. In full three piece suit and wearing one of his signature bowties (find it on YouTube). He's also made popular videos that you can find on YouTube. It's hard to believe he's not on Instagram, because we can only imagine how fun he'd make that. Regardless, he's hard to beat if you want to be entertained, and none was able to dethrone him… (Padres)
2. Wes Wilson @wtwilson5- …But this guy came close. He’s one of the most fun, interesting minor league players on Twitter. He’s freely talked politics with candor and level-headedness. And he’s embraced a multi-media way of expression, reaching beyond Twitter to create his own vlog, which is a regular feature for the Tampa Yankees (#WesCam). ‘Wes’s Womb’ (yep) is a mixture of interviews with teammates, highlights of minor league baseball life, and his own unique humor. The task of choosing which tweets to highlight was tough. Here’s a few from his Starbucks trips: “I gotta be lookin’ a fool bumpin’ Iggy Azalea, but I’m gettin’ my bump on my second coffee.” “I think this dude just walked in with a desktop computer.” “This woman just ordered something with 11 words.” By the way, his bio even says he'll one day be a presidential candidate, though it's unclear if he's serious. Tweet him about that. Odds are, he'll have a great answer. (Yankees)
3. Michael Schlact @Michael_Schlact - There's no one like Michael. He's used the Twitter platform to share spiritual inspiration & personal beliefs. When he went on a mission, he took to Twitter and Instagram to record the experience. He’s used the Twitter machine to produce an image, that’s no image at all, but a guy connecting to fans in a heartfelt, positive way. He’s consistently expressed his dedication to baseball, even when he wasn’t sure where his career was going. A recent tweet showed just about everything you need to know: 'How can Jillian [wife] and I pray for you today?' (Wichita Wingnuts)
4. Maxx Tissenbaum @8_Maxx – Brand new to this list, he skipped the lower levels and jumped into the top five. His blog ‘Red, White, and the 3-0 Green Light’ is the main reason for his push toward the top. The thorough, entertaining, creative effort impresses more with every entry. He’s also made Instagram a part of his connection with fans, something minor leaguers have gotten into even more since last year’s list. He tweeted about his need to write, saying, “Gotta get some coffee so I’m awake enough to write on the bus.” Spoken like a true baseball writer. (Although we’re usually looking for help at about quarter to 11 on the PM side). (Rays)
5 Jeremy Barfield @BarfieldRage – A repeat top five player he’s been a huge Twitter presence for a long time, and let's mention this stat: 40+K followers. He’s built a huge following by being consistently active, and interactive, on Twitter. His casual down to earth tone makes him super likeable. I liked this feminist (look that word up) take on pageants: ‘’Guys who tweet live pageants deserve girls that live tweet ‘The Bachelor.’” He might’ve meant something different than both things tend to insult intelligent minds, but it’s a great example of his sharp-minded wit. And you gotta love this battle cry: Good luck to all the young pups with the draft but if you think you’re gonna come take my job, you got another thing coming meat!’ (Athletics)
6.Justin Toole @Tooleyj24 - When Toole published his book '9 in 9' in 2013, he utilized Twitter to promote the project, reaching many fans and media outlets. That kind of connection is what social media is so good for, especially for guys in the minors. He built a buzz pre-release, tracked reader reviews with retweets, and used giveaways to attract more readers. One of the most impressive ways a minor leaguer's ever connected on Twitter. (Indians)
7. Marcus Stroman @MStrooo7 - A Twitter devotee, he's always sharing some part of his life and career. Whether it's congratulating a teammate, his soon-to-be-wed sister, or tweeting out life wisdom ("Know yourself. Know your worth."), he's consistently connecting. (Blue Jays)
8. Justin Jackson @JaxChillinONE - One of the best things about Jackson is the way he reaches out to followers. He's always starting conversation and loves the interaction, be it asking readers to tweet their thoughts on XBox One or favorite music, he wants to engage. Loved that he paid tribute to Maya Angelou upon her passing. He also shows constant appreciation for the game he plays for a living: "One of those mornings I've been reflecting about how blessed I am to play this game", he tweeted from his Instagram, another one of his social media favorites. (Blue Jays)
9. Jiwan James @Jiwan23 - He's a daily guy. He's got a lot of interests and freely expresses himself in the warm, entertaining way he always has: "Pretty girls that smoke" he tweeted with a disappointed emoticon. And who on the East coast can't relate to this? "Wait to be seated at IHOP or make the first of many trips to WaWa?" He also could've hashtagged that #MiLBLife. (Phillies)
10. Bryan Harper @BryanHarper45 – He’s a huge sports fan and tweets his enthusiasm regularly for his favorite teams. He’s also a big family guy (check his background image) and his Mother’s Day tweets were especially great. He remembered Mom of course, but his sister too. “Happy Mother’s Day to my sister! Thank you for blessing me with a nephew and now a niece!” There’s also been a lot of talk about that mustache and he has a lot of fun with that. (Nationals)
11. Ian Kendall @Ian_RK91 - Not on Twitter all the time, but you'll get your laughs when he is: "Just spent $20 on candles." "Why did they cancel 'Pimp My Ride'? I thought it was quality television." "Up and at em...meaning laying in bed for another hour." And there was something kind of cool about this thought: "I don't want to grow up but I've grown." (Rays)
12. Corey Black @CblackCHC - The funnest part of Black's Twitter feed is the micro-tweets about any random thing. He's also as honest as he wants to be: "That's exactly why I don't tweet cause y'all have no lives." ; "I still don't get why I'm a "reliever". Hahaha I get it I'm short. Jeez one inch would go a long way for me." (Cubs)
13. Ryan Verdugo @teachmetodugi11 - Verdugo shared his feelings about his recent trade to the Red Sox by thanking Royals fans he'd played for, and with trademark humor. He posted a photo of himself still in a Royals uniform with the caption "Awkward." This observation was interesting“I don’t know what has more blowouts right now the MLB or the boardwalk of Jersey." (over/under?) His best tweet might've been about World Cup soccer. He tweeted a photo from the greatest movie of all time, 'Superbad', with one of the movie's most memorable quotes "Calm down Greg. It's soccer." (Red Sox)
14. Taijuan Walker @tai_walker - If Walker didn't have the tweet of the year, than he came close: "I was sweating so much meeting @alfonso_ribeiro today." But seriously (that actually was serious), his positive, fun flow is always present on Twitter. Those 19+K folowers aren't too shabby, either. (Mariners)
15. Lance Durham @LanceBullDurham -...Durham might've had the best Instagram photo of any minor leaguer this year, which he proudly tweeted. He and his girlfriend announced via IG that she was pregnant by staging a photo of the couple sitting at a table, with a jar of Prego spaghetti sauce in front of them, and mocked terror on their faces. Since then, he's tweeted excitedly about pending fatherhood. An aweseome example of allowing fans to make a personal connection through social media. (Tigers)
16. Anthony Giansanti @GianSanity - He paid awesome tributer to retiring Yankee captain Derek Jeter: "As a passionate ball player since I could walk, moments like that will forever make my eyes water. Thank you Captain, you're a hero #RE2PECT", "If you're a baseball fan you appreciate what Derek Jeter has done and how he's done it. #UltimatePro". When he made an incredible outfield catch, he asked followers to retweet the clip so ESPN would notice. They should've. He went face first into the wall and tweeted humorously about the wicked wound he got from the nail he hit. (Cubs)
17. Ian Kadish @TheBearJew_36 - A super friendly, fun guy, he shares a lot about his family and baseball life with good-natured candor. "Sleeping on a yoga mat tonight...on the floor of a bus... #Allpartofit #IndyBallLife". When he was traded to the Indiana NAME, he tweeted the adventure of driving on the Fouth of July to play for them. "Welp guys I'm on the road again...traded this time to Gary, Indiana! Home of Michael Jackson!" That upbeat tone is a marked characterstic and shows up often on his Twitter. (Gary Southshore RailCats)
18. Kevin Vance @SorryBoutIt10 – There's a lot of "Crushing", feeling "Emotions" and getting "Fired Up" tweets, and he's all about high energy and self-expression. Impossible not to like him. In case you haven't head how he feels about a minor league staple: "Taco Bell is better than Chipotle." Chipotle is his Lex Luthor. (White Sox)
19. Trevor May @TrevMay54 - Recent road trip tweets with his girlfriend were fun to read (though if you go to her timeline @kateishere is even funnier to read) Then there's one of the tweets that make May an interesting guy to follow: "Self-analysis is the key to self-awareness." #Existentialism (Twins)
20. Jeremy Dowdy @Dowdy413 - Made it to the twenty by keeping a consistent fun vibe going all year. "Autocorrect just corrected "bad" to "bae"... Who's been using my phone?" "It's hard to beat music from the 90's." and he rang in birthday number 25 with a 15 inning game and tweeted about the experience. (White Sox)
Here’s the players that missed making the top twenty, but couldn’t be excluded. These guys deserve your follow.
Honorable Mentions:
Courtney Hawkins @CHawkins10 (White Sox)
Beau Wright @LeftButWright35 – The toughest part of this list was not including him in the twenty. He’s not on any roster this season. But he brings it daily, throughout the day. He’s a ball of energy and fun, so follow him to see where he winds up.
Michael McCarthy @mmcarthy35 (Red Sox)
Ryan Sherriff @KingSherriff (Cardinals)
Tommy Joseph @_TommyJoseph_ (Phillies)
Craig Missigman @craigmiss54 (Mets)
Chris Rivera @ChrisRivera217 (Cardinals)
Dustin Driver @dustindriver27 (Athletics)
Ty Buttrey @TyButtrey (Red Sox)
Josh Fellhauer – ‘Fellosophies.’ Look 'em up. (Reds)
Bradley Goldberg @B_Gumbo30 (White Sox)
Jamie Callahan @JCallahan15 (Red Sox)
Derrick Chung @therealthing6 (Blue Jays)
Darryl George @DarrylRoyGeorge - He's tweeted video of his on-the-field pre-game dance-offs. #MustSee (Rays)
Donnie Hart @DonnieHart06 (Orioles)
Jacob Faria @JDFaria48 (Rays)
Conrad Gregor @conradgregor55 (Astros)
Michael Crouse @_crouse_ (Blue Jays)
Julian Ridings @JRIDINGS_4 (Rays)
Pat Light @Pat_Light (Red Sox)
Travis Shaw @travis_shaw21 (Red Sox)
Tim Giel @TimmyGiel (Yankees)
Brett Geritse (Yankees)
Ali Castillo @alicastillo19 (Yankees)
Lenny Linsky @alohalinsky (Rays)
Jordan Cote @JordanCote603
Will Anderson @Willthethrill37 (Cardinals)
Jayson Hernandez- His devotion to public service shined when he helped organize 'Grandslam For Sandy', to benefit Hurricane Sandy victims and their families. (Red Sox)
Jonathon Berti @jonny_hustle (Blue Jays)
Cody Livesay @Livec1 (Braves)
Jared Wilson @DubsDeuces (Twins)
Rookie Davis @rookdavis24 (Yankees)
David Buchanan @davidb413 (Phillies)
Chase Vallot @Chase_Vallot (Royals)
Cale Coshow @c_coshow (Yankees)
Victor Black @Vic_Black_2 - "Sunday funday...That means no run day! I look forward to you all week #neverletsmedown." (Mets)
Antonio Nuñez @nunezlife03 (Astros)
Taylor Cole @Taylor_JCole (Blue Jays)
Matt Snyder @Matt33Snyder (Yankees)
Jared Mortensen @jaredmortensen1 (Rays)
Ali Solis @aSoLis44 (Rays)
Matthew Boyd @mattboyd31 (Blue Jays)
Will Gabay @GaBaY_WG_24 (Rays)
Jack Mayfield @jackmayfield8 (Astros)
Ryan Gunther @Gunther_7 (Braves)
Jake Hager @JakeHager1 (Rays)
Ryan Dent @RDdeucess (Red Sox)
Blair Walters @bwalters34 (Braves)
Stone Speer – @StoneSpeer He’s regularly all over Twitter. And he gets wild with it. Pretty sure he tweeted thanks to every single person that wished him Happy Birthday. On MLB Draft Day he rooted for friends on the board and congratulated friends selected. He's also funny AND cocky ("Handsome and wealthy" he tweeted). (Rays)
Dash Winningham @WinninghamDash (Mets)
Brad Meyers @bradmeyers29 (Nationals)
Zac Reininger @Reininger18 (Tigers)
Chris Costantino @Chriscos21 (Braves)
Chipper Smith @Chipper_Smith3 (Marlins)
Wynston Sawyer @WynSawyer (Orioles)
Will Anderson @Willthethrill37 (Cardinals)
Taylor Guerrieri @TaylorG1201 (Rays)
Vince Belnome @VBelnome1 (Rays)
Johnny Magliozzi @Money_Mags (Mets)
jp crawford @jp_crawford (Phillies)
Brian Holmes @BHolmes130 (Astros)
Rob Whalen @RobWhalen38- "Highlight of my day? Threw a perfect game with 20Ks in #MLBTheShow14 #NoBigDeal #LoveOffDays". (Mets)
Caleb Smith @CalebASmith12 (Yankees)
Dario Pizzano @DarioPizzano25 (Mariners
Chris Kirsch @chriskirsch9 (Rays)
Jason Martin @_JM55 (Astros)
Shane Watson @Shane40Sw (Phillies)
Alec Asher @TheBigCat28 (Rangers)
Jarrett Casey @JCasey13 (White Sox)
Dayton Dawe @DaytonDawe22 (Yankees)
Guido Knudson @GKnudson15 (Tigers)
Scott DeCecco @Dececco33 - His bio says he's the backup singer for Kings of Leon. If this is true, he maybe should've been in the Twitter Twenty. (Mariners)
Justin Fitzgerald @jfitzgerald31 (Diamondbacks)
Deck McGuire @deckmcguire (Blue Jays)
Cody Buckel @Cheatcode07 (Rangers)
Tony Thomas @GoldGlover2B (Twins)
Scott Carcaise @SCarcaise (Marlins)
Taylor Motter @taylormotter7 (Rays)
Ryan Carpenter @R_Carpenter22 (Rockies)
John Mincone @JMincone (Mets) – Tweets about his love for his girlfriend & is a big Instagram guy, often posting photos of his close-knit family.
Rob Wooten @RobWooten35 (Brewers)
Reese McGuire @Reese_McGuire21 (Pirates)
Greg Nappo @Nappo41 (Marlins)
Mike Meyers @Meyers_MJ (Red Sox)
Kevin Keyes @KevinJKeyes (Nationals)
Cameron Monger @CameronMonger (Frontier Grays)
Tucker Jensen @Tucker_Jensen (Gateway Grizzlies)
Stew Brase @sbrase12 (Southern Illinois Miners)
Brandon Douglas @BrandonDouglas5 (Tigers)
Erik Turgeon @ErikTurgeon (Pirates)
K.J. Woods @KJWoods22 - "Social media can ruin your life." (Marlins)
It's easy to be an egotistical chest-puffer when you're an athlete.
Who's going to call you on it? Maybe your teammates, maybe your manager, but if you're playing well, or you're highly regarded in the system, you might just be able to get away with it. Even players not so highly regarded have a hard time figuring out how to treat people and follow a respectable path, and you hear about them faltering all the time.
So if no one is going to call them on their BS, there's really only themselves left to the role.
Pitcher Lenny Linsky finally got to that point. But it took a hell of a loss to shake him up and get him on the right track.
"I was told I needed to calm down, to not throw so hard," he said from Rays camp in Port Charlotte Florida. "But I was like 'No, I need to go out and throw harder.' So I did that and gave up a grand slam. After that, I was thinking I was going to blow this ball by [a guy], then I ended up hitting him and getting ejected. I get in the locker room and thought, 'What are you doing?' So I ended up serving a three-game suspension during a four-game series and hit to sit on the bench for most of it. I was super embarrassed. And I just decided to do the opposite of whatever I'd been doing. I literally just told myself, 'I'm not going to try.' So, my first time back pitching, I was pitching really well and asked the guys in the dugout what my velocity was and they just said,'Dude, you were throwing harder than ever.' I stopped huffing and puffing and realized I just had to be a pitcher."
The Tampa Bay Rays drafted Linsky in the second round in 2011 out of the University of Hawaii, and he made his professional debut with the Hudson Valley Renegades of the New York Penn League (Class-A Short-Season)that same year. He logged a career high 39 innings in 2013, finishing 7-5 with a 3.22 ERA, five saves, and 52 strikeouts for the High-A Charlotte Stone Crabs.
Coming off of that momentum, he arrived at Spring Training this year with a singular focus.
"I want to show I've matured. My goal is to be the hardest working pitcher in camp. I can't control the uncontrollables. So I'm controlling what I can, which is how hard I work," he said.
Linsky, a native of Rancho Palos Verdes California was attending college in Hawaii when his awareness of the world around him and being a more spiritually connected person began developing. That development took time, but he considers each experience just part of his overall journey.
"Those struggles were good for me. I'm more committed, motivated and focused," he said.
For any player, Spring Training is a non-stop push to build up strength and prepare for the season ahead.
"You have to get used to being on your feet constantly. Each days gets better. I need those naps. Naps are common for guys during Spring Training! But then, you know, we get to wake up and play baseball. We wouldn't want to be anywhere else."
Linsky's road through baseball has been one of turning more and more inward, particularly after struggling physically and mentally through 2012. He had to reassess in order to grow.
"I wasn't the same pitcher when I came back. I didn't really feel different until the last few months of last season. I learned it doesn't matter how loud you are on the mound."
The downward spiral that led to his turnaround was simply part of the process. He doesn't hold back when he recalls the guy that he used to be.
"I thought I was the coolest. I was so egotistical and selfish. I finally stepped out of self. I just thought 'How can you be like this?' I came from a great family, went to a great school, and now I get to play baseball. I felt like an a-hole. I just decided I wanted to be a better person and help others. I want to be the guy that inspires my teammates when they're down. I removed ego from my mind."
Don't get the righty reliever wrong. He's still going to pitch with the same fire and intensity. The issue was learning how to channel that energy.
"When I'm on the mound, I feel like a warrior. We can all learn from our mistakes and learn from each other."
As Spring Training heats up with games beginning shortly, Linsky is determined to be this more clear-minded, stronger person in every aspect of his life, and, of course, when he's in the game.
"I just really want to apply those principles and be conscious. It's easy to revert to old habits. I don't want to forget the experience. I want to compete and have fun and get after it, but my baseball goals are bigger than me now. I want to share my lessons and be a good teammate too."
He turned 24 earlier this week, and he celebrated with the knowledge that this new year, this new baseball season, begins with more opportunities and a deep sense of purpose.
"I've kind of found myself as a pitcher and as a person."
You can follow him on Twitter @alohalinsky34.
For more of my Rays minor league coverage read links below and check out 'Hitting The Bull' this season on Minor League Ball. I'll cover the Durham Bulls in a weekly feature there.
Managers get their assignments too. And Tommy Thompson got his, when the White Sox informed him they wanted him to manage the Class-A Winston-Salem Dash of the Carolina League.
The territory is completely familiar. Thompson managed the Dash to a Mills League Cup Championship in 2012, then moved on to manage the Low-A Kannapolis Intimidators in 2013.
Each experience is one he welcomes, and he understands the White Sox have their plan. Like the players, he's ready to do his job wherever they send him.
"[The White Sox] tell me where I'm going. It's their decision," he said from Spring Training in Arizona Thursday. "I'm excited. It's a dream job."
Buddy Bell, the team's assistant GM, and farm director Nick Capra let Thompson know where they wanted him, and it makes sense. Thompson has been at different levels with the same players; he knows their tendencies, their personalities, and what their needs are. He also has a firm grasp on what works at each level.
"I'm a little more patient with the players at Kannapolis. There's certain things they need to know, but they still have to be reminded. I know them more personally, too. Whether they need a pat on the back, or, and I hate to say this, a father. Which sometimes you do have to be. But even at the major league level, you have to keep them balanced."
The Carolina League (High-A) in comparison to the South Atlantic League (Low-A) is considerably different, more advanced. While you wouldn't think there'd be much of an adjustment, Thompson has seen firsthand what a big jump it is.
"[Carolina] really is one of the toughest leagues. There's seven teams and they player each other twenty times. So if you're working on something, you can be exposed. Which is good. At the big league level, you get exposed. But it's a tough transition for them."
Thompson is working with a mix of players this Spring Training, some he'll manage once camp breaks, some he won't, but could down the road. But getting to know all of them is important.
"We're teaching the White Sox philosophy. My role is to help manage those guys, even if I don't have them this year, they might be with me later."
He's nothing but happy with his place in the White Sox organization, and sees his relationship continuing with them.
"They've been great to me in good times and bad, on the field and off. If I spend the rest of my days in the White Sox organization, it would be a good stepping stone."
You can read my continued coverage of the Dash, and the rest of the Carolina League, here and for Minor League Ball this season.
1. Don't Be A Fan - If you began a fan, you can't continue as one. Don't mistake what that means. In your heart, you can be a fan, and if you aren't something's wrong! Loving the sport you cover, and the stories that unfold, isn't a requirement, but I can't imagine not feeling that way and doing this with my life. And you can be a rabid, foaming fan in your living room or attending a game as a spectator. What I mean by don't be a fan comes down to ethics. You're a professional now, or, if you don't get paid, you've got a responsibility if you've been granted access. Minor league teams tend to be more open to non-accredited blogs, even ones that lean toward fandom. Don't take advantage of that. Conduct yourself as every reporter does in the press box. You don't cheer and you don't seek autographs when you enter the locker room. Even if you have a day job, this is a profession. Respect it.
2. Build Connections- You are your own advocate as a reporter. We chase our contacts, establish trust, and find ways of getting exclusive information. In the minor leagues, this works the same, but if you're an independent blogger, the development of those relationships is even more important. Twitter and Facebook can open those channels even more, but also just increase visibility and familiarity. If a player sees you at the park, covering the game, then you retweet something he's said or tweet/post his numbers from that night, attach his handle. They want to know who they're dealing with. And if they happen to like dealing with you, then they're going to be more open in interviews. If they follow you, you can privately contact them via DM to ask to set up an interview. This helps especially during the off-season. You're creating exclusivity by doing that. And in the digital age, that's gotten tougher to have. A bit of advice: going back to that 'don't be a fan' thing, don't over-socialize with them on Twitter or say something overly-gushy. I avoid birthday wishes, for example. If I know them, maybe I'll send a DM. If not, it doesn't occur to me to do that. If you're tweeting directly to them, keep it fairly cool. No law against fun or friendliness, so don't over-think this one. Just be mindful.
3. Keep Lists - If you're covering the minor leagues, you become aware of how many players are on Twitter. And new players are joining the social media giant everyday. Plus, after the MLB Draft college players quickly change their bio to identify themselves with the team that drafted them. So their presence is always changing and growing. I began a MiLB list a couple of years ago and it grew to 700 accounts, so I added a second which grew to 300. I have a third, which includes around 500 accounts, each one includes players (mostly), teams official accounts, independent team blogs, PR, and beat writers. This is far easier for me to keep track of interesting information, breaking news, and familiarizing with players. This also helps with my annual 'MiLB Twitter Twenty', so if you do any sort of end-of-season awards or best-of list, consider organizing lists centered on that subject.
4. Pay Attention To High School/College Players- Preps are your preparation. Being aware of high school, and college, players on the radar can only enhance your work. When the Draft comes around, if you have a good grasp of a player's progression before he goes professional, that allows you to talk shop with authority. Bonus if you can get to showcases, something I've not managed to do in my career. With so much information available, reading as many reports as you can is a huge asset. Also, connecting with players in high school and college on Twitter can create professional trust, as they begin their careers. I've had almost entirely great experiences with that. The 2013 Draft was a lesson for me, though. Two players that drafted in the first ten rounds had been friendly and open when I covered them throughout their high school/college days. I interviewed them and they were great to me. I consistently mentioned them on 'Follow Friday.' After being drafted, the script changed. One began calling me 'Ms. Quiroli' the week before the draft...he'd never called me that before. He became distinctly cold. He unfollowed me pretty fast. The other was great in giving me a post-draft interview, but quickly unfollowed me thereafter. The guy who called me 'Ms. Quiroli' basked in the national media spotlight and clearly had his course of action set: I was no longer useful. While this wasn't a fun realization, it's only a small part of my experience. Most of the time that early connecting is meaningful; most players don't lose that appreciation and humility from their early days, and generally respect everyone in the media. Try not take too much personally. There's plenty of stories to tell and your focus on high school/college players is important to your ability to tell that story later, if and when they go pro. Also, make sure to follow some college and high school accounts and reporters. If you're focusing on a specific region, know who the college and high school sports writers are. Read their information, and seek your own.
5. Develop Your Niche- In a market increasingly saturated with blogs and opinions, you need to find what you do and know best. If you're just trying to gain experience, covering any minor league team in your area is a great way to develop your skills, professionalism, and collect clips you can present to editors. Having a blog dedicated to one team (Mike Ashmore's 'Thunder Thoughts' is an excellent example), whether you work for a newspaper or publication, or you have an independent blog, fans of the team's parent club are going to read your thoughts. If you have access, even better. Access is key. While the saturation is mostly a good thing for the minor leagues, players are increasingly easier to 'get to' via social media. Having access has always been important to reporters and is far more important today, when they're are a lot of fans creating pathways to players. Reach out to the PR person of a team and see what their thoughts are, and what they expect of you. If they say they're willing to grant you access for a few games, take it. Send a thank you note (e-mail, obviously, not by a man on a horse known as the mail). When you're first in the locker room, follow the lead of the vets. When I first began covering the Thunder, I appreciated the helping hand. Around the third season, a young writer came in hotshotting. I was asked to keep an eye on him and another writer, and offer any guidance I could. But this guy gave me evil eye every time I offered help or asked him how he was faring. He wanted to be a vet before he'd put the time in. Don't do this. Be humble and respect the process, as well as anyone offering to help you, because not everyone will. Understand that valuing the other writers and employees around you creates a positive atmosphere, and in turn, a positive relationship with the team. If the PR person asked me about that writer, I wouldn't have had anything positive to say and that doesn't help someone who, in that case, wasn't working for a newspaper the team relied on, but a website. Bad move on his part. So respect EVERYONE. And respect the team's responsibility to the parent club. Minor league affiliates want to generate more publicity for their team, especially positive attention, but you're also showcasing your worth. Be professional and respectful. Ask questions. Figure some things out on your own. Focusing on one team or league allows you to be an authority on one subject and you want a unique voice in a crowd of thousands of writers, reporters, and bloggers.
Whatever your focus, have one. And do the work to the best of your ability. That's all you have control over. Hopefully these tips help you.
When he arrived in Brooklyn, New York in 2012, Brandon Nimmo was surrounded by a whirlwind of press.
Most of the attention on the Mets 2011 first round pick focused on how he'd come from a high school without a baseball program. How had he developed into such a highly regarded, valuable player without that experience? The selection was seen as a risk, though most high school picks are. But this was different. There were questions about how he'd handle the pressure physically and mentally.
For those watching and talking to him daily in the New York Penn League that year, the answer was clear. He had a strong sense of himself, that had surely fostered a solid work ethic. He wasn't easily distracted. And in the face of anything the season brought, he remained even-keeled. In 69 games for the Class-A (short-season)Brooklyn Cyclones, followed by 110 games in 2013 with the High-A Savannah Sand Gnats, he was steadfast in his approach.
"I believe everything happens for a reason. There's been small trials. But I keep things in perspective, because at the end of my career, I don't want to have any regrets," he said Sunday. "Baseball is my job and it doesn't get any better than that. You have to be able to see the big picture."
He mentioned an experience with the Cyclones that keeps him centered, even now. A seven year old boy, who'd been diagnosed with cancer, had been invited to spend some time with the team. The moments spent with the boy, impressed upon Nimmo that his grateful attitude toward life and baseball was the only one to have.
"He got to hit a little, and we played catch. So that helps you see that you have no reason to complain. God has blessed me so much."
Having received a big league, he arrived in St. Lucie, Florida earlier this week. It was a continuation of a highly focused off-season, in which he'd worked with the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, a facility that allows players to go beyond the weight room.
"I got to field and hit more. I saw a lot more fly balls. Everything is just a lot more baseball oriented. They also oversaw all our meals and I worked with a nutritionist. All meals are made for you there. There was also vision testing, so you're making sure you have optimum vision. It's the complete package. I'm definitely faster than ever. It was just a very productive experience."
Nimmo, 19, also put on about ten pounds, up from his playing weight of 195. He actually began to see an improvement in movement and timing while with Savannah.
"I got better in the outfield, especially with the first step. I got to more balls faster. Hitting-wise, I had to learn a lot playing a tough pitcher's park. I was learning to hit more line drives, and just hit balls harder. Beyond that, I was learning how to distinguish between pain and injury, and how to play a hundred plus games. At the end of that season, I was a better player than at the beginning. And that's the point."
The Sand Gnats finished 2013 South Atlantic League champions with a 77-61 record. Nimmo did his part, finishing 108 hits, 62 runs scored, 71 walks, and a .359 SLG. He admits there were challenges, and that he needed the support that surrounded him.
"My manager Willie Rojas was instrumental in a lot of my games. He is just an amazing man. Frank Viola, even though he was the pitching coach, he had so much wisdom to pass down. Joel Fuentes went through a lot of ups and downs with me. [Outfield Coordinator] Jack Boyd impacted me immensely. I got better as an outfielder, and can attribute a lot of that to working with him."
But he also reaches back to his time spent with the men on the Cyclones staff, guys known for their strong personalities.
"[Cyclones manager] Rich Donnelly had a great impact on me. Not just with the tools, but mentally. [Hitting coach] Bobby [Malek] helped me going through my first struggles."
What has kept Nimmo's focus so strong, he insists, is a mix of their guidance, as well as the guidance he's always turned to.
"I have a relationship with Jesus Christ. That helps in my morals, but also in keeping things even. It's about having fun, but also living in the now and having no regrets."
He says he has no concerns about where he's assigned out of camp. He continues to achieve the art of keeping it simple.
"All I do is try to put my best effort in everyday. If I do that I can live myself, whatever the results, success or failure. I ask myself at the end of the day, 'Did I give it my best effort?' 'Did I do the preparation?' My only goal is to be a major league baseball player, so anything that would hinder that, I want no part of."
MLB.com ranked him the #4 prospect in the Mets system heading into 2013. He was selected to the 2013 SAL All-Star team. You can follow Brandon Nimmo on Twitter @You_Found_Nimmo
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