MLBPPA Kids Clinic At RFK Stadium

"Come On CHAMP!! You step right in there!!!" My Favorite Player of All Time--was on his game. Kids, nearly 200 of them surrounded the Home Field of Our Washington Nationals. Frank Howard was a Guest Instructor--teaching hitting mechanics. It was Friday Morning, August 17th. The turf at RFK STADIUM was buzzing. And, I was along for the ride.




"Hondo" was one of Seven Coaches who volunteered their time towards The Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association free clinic for youngsters--ages 6 through 16. A Freddie Mac Sponsored Event in Washington, DC that travels around the country each year. A effort put forth by the MLBPAA--currently celebrating their 25th Anniversary.




Additional instructors included three former Washington Senators: Jim Hannan, Brant Alyea and Fred Valentine. Former Baltimore Orioles Lefthander Scott McGregor was one of the pitching coaches--along with former New York Yankee, Jim Coates. And Current Washington Nationals VP, Head of Player Development--Bob Boone also was on hand. During the nearly two hour session--the kids rotated among Work Stations with the various Former Major League Players.




"Hondo" took a look at every one's batting stance--then slow tossed in pitches to adjust swings. One time looking at me after one youngster popped the baseball over the centerfield fence (Home Plate was in short right field)--"I'm going to make that boy The NEXT REAL PRO!!! (Smiling Broadly--as only Frank Howard can)."



Jim Hannan taught base running skills.



Brant Alyea instructed hitting philosophy.



Fred Valentine fielding fly balls, and throwing over distance.



Scott McGregor worked with the many participants on Pitching Mechanics. Jim Coates also worked on getting the young players to throw the baseball properly.



And, Bob Boone worked on ground ball fielding skills.


“These clinics give the kids the basic skills from all the former players. Some different terminology heard from the pros," said Vice President of Marketing for MLBPAA--Chris Torgusen. "These guys played the game. Some of the very few that got the chance to wear a Big League Uniform. These kids are being taught baseball skills from those who know the game. They go station to station, you certainly can’t teach them everything in one day—but you look to see how they are throwing the ball—change their grip—or arm angle—or bat swing, tweak it a little bit. We are not here to make Willie Mays out here. We hopefully can help them advance. So, when they go on the baseball field again—the kids understand more what they are trying to do. Its free. That’s important. We don’t charge anybody, anything for attending. Not a dime. These Former Players are out here donating their time, also. A good way for them to give back to the game.”

Chris and I continued:

Do the former players get excited about participating? (SBF)


“They get to put on the old uniform again. It doesn’t fit as well (both of us chuckling). Put the uniform on, lace up the spikes. The Home Runs get longer. The Pitches get faster. They struck out Ted Williams 10 Times—So its good (both of us busting up laughing—knowing its true). But, its good to have someone like Bob Boone out here who works with the ballclub (The Nationals) to give back to the game and be out on the field with us. We are excited about it. And, the kids enjoy it. Honestly, half these kids don’t have any idea who these players are—but you read the bio to them, tell them an All-Star was out here. They understand. You know, growing up—I never had this type of an opportunity to do something like this. Its all good--for us, these kids and the former players.”

How difficult is it to get the former players involved? (SBF)



“Not difficult at all. If they are not busy working or out of town—WE NEVER GET A ‘NO’ And, it’s a chance for them to see other players and swap stories too. Some guys haven’t seen each other in maybe 10 to 15 years. They come out--relive some of the memories—its kind of neat.”


“These Clinics bring back a lot of memories. One of the players was telling us the very first pitch he saw here (AT RFK) he hit a Home Run. (that player was Brant Alyea). Its neat, seeing them relive the memories. Many times, the kids' parents are getting a chance to see their childhood hero. Maybe that parent can tell their child Frank Howard then, was what Frank Thomas is today.”






These MLBPAA Clinics travel around the USA. You can check out their schedule at the MLBPPA Website. After the two hours of instruction, Frank Howard delivered a Speech to the gathered youngsters along the third base stands. Following that--each participant lined up, near Diamond Club on the 300 Level of RFK Stadium to receive T-Shirts, Autographs, Free Lunch, Goodie Bag and Four Free Tickets to an upcoming Washington Nationals Game. As "HONDO" was leaving the autograph session--I asked him how things went today? "Great!", he responded. "Any chance to get back on the field, teach some kids the game, always worthwhile. We need to get more kids involved in baseball. Glad to be able to help out."


Really, it was interesting to see the various responses from the kids from all age groups. The children were interested, listening intently to the instructors. The Former Major League Players enjoying their time back on the field of play.

The MLBPAA Youth Coordinator--Ryan Bevans--was kind enough to give me a few minutes to explain The Alumni Association and their role.

How did it all get started? (SBF)

“This is the 25th Anniversary, it started with Chris (Torgusen) here, when The Major League Baseball Player Alumni Association started. Chris was one of the first guys to get these clinic going. The past few years it has really taken off bringing kids in via MLB.com, Sponsorships and things like that. And, although the clinics have been going for a while, we are really looking to expand. Hopefully, into every Major League City eventually—more inner city and latino focus down the road.”

So, all these events come from a sponsor? (SBF)

“No, not all events are sponsored. Some are funded by us (MLBPAA) through the funds we raise (from members). When that happens, we can go into a target area and let all the kids come out for free by funding it ourselves. Then, if a sponsor comes in—we can provide a little more—like Tee Shirts and small mementos. Obviously, that is something that is nice to do—and appreciated by the kids.”

You mentioned to me earlier you are looking to expand to 34 cities this year (2007), how does that compare to the past? (SBF)



“It grows every year. We did 25 the season before. And they (MLBPAA) are looking to do 34 this year. Hopefully, if we can add one additional person to this role—we can expand to 50 cities next year.”

So, how difficult is it to get former MLB Players to volunteer their time to do this? (SBF)



“The Former Players are great!! Today, we had guys that drove 3 to 4 hours just to come out and participate. In this case, we even put a couple up in a hotel so they don’t have to fight rush hour traffic and leave at 3AM (Laughing). For the most part, if the former players are members and they have nothing going on—THEY LOVE TO COME AND DO THIS STUFF!!—gives them a chance to be back on the ball field for a day.” (And, its totally volunteer, correct?—SBF) “We do reimburse them for their expenses. But, since we are a non profit we don’t pay them. We do have a branch that does pay for appearances—but for clinics—its all about the kids, doing as many clinics as we can—with as many kids as we can.”

How is it decided what groups of kids get to attend? (SBF)


“In the past we have always done ages 6 to 16 as the age groups. For this one here at RFK, we ended up with 200 kids or so. Its based on how many players we have as instructors, the size of the facility and how we can accommodate as many as possible. A Sponsored one, like this one (FREDDIE MAC) allows us to do a lot more.”

But, lets say I am in Alexandria, Virginia in Little League. Someone else is in Montgomery County, Maryland Little League—How do you decide who and how many come from each area? (SBF)

“When our mass email goes out (TO THE AREA), we say the first 125 respondents will be registered. From there, we cap it to see how much room we have to work with. Its such a huge response, we actually have to go through the emails to see if they (Kids Baseball Groups) are sending in for two or three kids at a time. Some try to sign up whole teams. But, when they do that—we have to go back to them to get registration information from their guardians. We notify everyone who signs up whether they are in or out—then as spots become available (due to dropouts or added instructors) we keep people posted. For this particular clinic, we had an immediate response from all over. There was no problem filling the registration spots.”

What is The Nationals Involvement in all this—other than a provider of the facility? (SBF)



“Providing the facility is a BIG Part of it all. Number 1 on the checklist!! (Both of us laughing) You got to have a place to do it. They also provide man power. The set up, water, the tables for the autograph session and the grab bag stuff for later. Allowing us (MLBPAA) to use their logo (The Curly ‘W’) is important. All the kids in this area identify with that logo. For most—The Nationals are their favorite team. To say ‘I went to RFK for the clinic, got a tee-shirt’ and all that stuff—is good for identification purposes. Our Name (MLBPAA) is good. But, when we can attach it to the Local Team, its a lot better for recognition.”

I would imagine some of those parents over in the stands watching their kids are DYING to walk onto this field? (SBF)

(Both of us laughing) “Oh Yeah!! EXACTLY!! But, they better stay up there as it’s a big groundskeepers issue.”

What kind of feedback do you hear from Little League Coaches about these clinics? (SBF)

“Usually, the feedback is great. Its more of an experienced based thing. You get people out. You try to get them to learn as much as you can. The Former Players can relate their experiences and what the game is all about. Something their Little League Coaches may not be able to relate. But, bottom line, we want them to have a good time. That is what we are shooting for. Now, they are not necessarily going to learn “The Secrets” to going to the pros in one day, but if these kids can come out and remember they spent a day at RFK learning a tiny bit about the game its worthwhile. For them to remember--they were instructed by Frank Howard on how to swing the bat—that experience is what we want them to see. And, that’s the type of feedback we always receive.”



Many of the kids today were participating under the umbrella Group "Play Ball DC"--A Non Profit Group that works with youth baseball organizations in the District. Its Director, Michael Williams telling me: "These events are invaluable. The Clinics give the youngsters, not only the opportunity to learn some new skills--but also see a potential future--playing on the fields--not on the streets."

Thank You Minute Maid Park

Final Post From Cancun, Mexico

Little League Field, Little League Dimensions. Where else could Ryan Zimmerman club a 425 Foot Triple to Center? Where else could Our Number 11 knock a routine Pop Up for a Home Run? Where else could "Z" attempt to retrieve a routine POP UP and see the baseball hit a girder--then deflect in another direction--yet still catch the ball. Where else, but Minute Maid Park in Houston.

Reminds me of playing baseball growing up on crappy fields. Many of the fields we played on had chain link fences down the lines. But, Centerfield was always open (Wakefield High School in Arlington comes to mind)--anything knocked past the centerfielder--you were on your own as the hitter. Run, until you had to stop. An experience Ryan played out tonight on the Big League Level. Can't stand Minute Maid Park.


Although, its silly dimensions helped Our Washington Nationals out tonight. Zimmerman's Home Run into the Crawford Boxes was as cheap as it gets. It also helped that for the first time in memory--Wandy Rodriguez was blitzed by Washington. Time and Time again--The Lefty Houston Astros Starter has handcuffed Our Team each and every time since 2005. Yet, Walks hurt The Astros Number 51 this evening, especially when followed by single after single, after single. Small ball by Washington. A ability to get runners home in scoring position. Novel for Our Team.

All resulting in a little in doubt, yet interminally long, and poorly played 11-6 victory in Game Two of this Four Game Series. How many pitches can possibly be thrown in a baseball game that contains a seven run lead in the 8th? The Houston TV Crew pitch count was above 300 then. Really guys, just take your cuts and sit down at that point. Please.

How about that Hurricane Dean?

Yeah, we're OK and well here in Cancan. But, its been a very long day, night and following day. Fortunately, Hurricane Dean went well south into a very rural Area of The Yucatan Peninsula, near Belize. No deaths, as of this time--Thankfully--just structural damage. And, No--as I watch Game Two again tonight on FSN--Houston, I have yet to go to sleep. Tomorrow morning, we are heading home though.

What's always amazing about ANY HURRICANE. Never has it not been like this for me. The Day After is one of the most Beautiful Days you will EVER EXPERIENCE. Always CRYSTAL CLEAR SKIES, NO POLLUTION (Its all been blown away). The surf may well be the finest surfing conditions DIEHARDS will ever see. A Wonderful Sunny Day. Its quite remarkable actually. Odd and Surreal, but it makes you feel good.


So, yeah--despite all that--I hung in there for Our Nats tonight. Rooting hard for Zimmerman to hit for the cycle--he didn't--walked in his final At-Bat, needing a double. And, pleased to see Joel Hanrahan not have his best stuff--but survive. Our New Number 38 may be something after all.


Hanrahan helped tremendously tonight from a very unexpected source. Doubtful to believe and hard to say, but Nook Logan batted well tonight. A broken bat double down the line in left. An RBI single, JUST OFF THE GLOVE, of a diving Lance Berkman at first base. A solid two strike, two out single to right center for another RBI. A fourth hit--another two out single to left center scoring Ronnie Belliard and then FLop on an error. Then, a shocker FIFTH HIT in the 9th. Even The Astros TV commentors couldn't believe it. Neither COULD I. Still a fourth outfielder at best in my book--Logan showed what he can provide as that backup player, when he plays well with his head in the game. A quality reserve. Nook has too many holes though--exposed as a starter.

Sorry for the short post--I really need to get some sleep. But, Curly "W" Number 57 was another No Doubter from Minute Maid Little League Park. A victory that brings Our Washington Nationals out of last place--moving past The Florida Marlins--closer to actually making a serious run at last season's 71 win mark. A Win Total never expected for 2007. A Number that should make Our Manager Manny Acta a frontrunner for The Manger of The Year Award. Only Bob Melvin in Arizona could be his closest suitor. Both Washington and The Diamondbacks have far exceeded expectations.


Interest which peaked for me upon reading that Emiliano Fruto is the unexpected player to be named later in the Wily Mo Pena Deal. A Three Way Trade involving Arizona. The Diamondbacks sending their AAA Tucson First Baseman, Chris Carter to Washington for Fruto. Our Nats immediately shipping Carter to The Boston Red Sox for Wily Mo Pena. A trade consummation that brings finality to the Jose Vidro trade. Instead of Chris Snelling & Fruto coming to Washington for Vidro and Cash ($4Million I believe--a portion of his 2007 salary)--that December 2006 transaction now becomes Vidro and Cash for Wily Mo Pena and Cash. Of course, Ryan Langerhans was designated for assignment a few days ago after coming to Washington for Snelling. I can live with this final trade evaluation. Our General Manager Jim Bowden wanted to dump the slower moving Vidro and his salary. And, after watching Pena twice run out infield grounders--beating the defensive throws to the bag--you have to say--Wily Mo's worth the risk--for both speed and raw power, if not his defensive prowess. If Our New Number 16 breakouts and becomes the slugger Jimbo has always envisioned--the better for us. If he doesn't--little has been given away. Its a no lose situation.

Finally--I received an email from Our Washington Nationals today stating The RELOCATION PROCESS has been FINISHED for The Presidents Club and Diamond Club Seating Arrangements. The Next Step will be "Traditional Seating" which includes The Club Level, and all other seats at New Nationals Park. What's interesting in the notation is that obviously seats are still available for Both Presidents or Diamond Club--Or Both. The email says one can still contact Our Washington Nationals about getting in on those seating plans. Interesting.

PS--If all flights go well, we shall be back in Washington--early tomorrow afternoon. And Yes, as Paul mentioned in yesterday's comments--Its time to return to The Lay-Z-Boy. I can't wait!!

Actually, I think its possible to fly from Mexico to Washington in a shorter time frame than the 3 Hours 44 Minutes this game took to play.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Pat Sullivan

Thar It Blows!!

Dateline: Cancun, Mexico

Yeah, I know--I am little nuts. But, you gotta love the fact that as we sit in Our Cancun Hotel--Hurricane Dean barring down on top of us--calmly I am watching Our Washington Nationals play The Houston Astros on FSN--Houston. Really, what could be FINER!! Or Silly, when you really think about. Yet, that's where I find myself at this moment in time.

Dean will be my 27th Hurricane, 5th Category Five. Never is it fun. But, its what we do--TELEVISION NEWS. Preparation and Smarts combined with a little Luck, is what helps you survive. The Challenge always worth the effort. Mother Nature's Remarkable Forces devastating to witness. And The Human Spirit Comes Alive when Massive Danger is in The Wake. Its doesn't matter what your background and politics may be--Helping Out In A Hurricane--REALLY THE NOBLEST OF EFFORTS. Let me tell you, I speak from experience. Years of Experience.


But, before those Winds Come Ashore--How about that Force called Our Washington Nationals? Wily Mo Pena making "JIMBO" look like a genius after just three days. A Towering Home Run Shot in the Second off Jason Jennings tonight. A funny to watch--Dmitri Young stroke of a three run homer--ONE HANDED SWING--off Jason Jennings in the 3rd inning. A fooled swing that only THE CHEAP DIMENSIONS of Minute Main Park would allow. For years I have disliked this park. Too many gimmicks to make any ballgame interesting for the crowd. That right field fence that Our 2007 All Star poked one over--is just 7 Feet High. A Joke!! The Crawford Boxes in left field--far too short. Minute Maid Park really is: A Little League Park.

Remember in 2005 when Brandon Watson popped out to left field there? Only to see the ball land One Row into those Crawford Boxes. A cheap Career Home Run Number One for "00". A surprise hit that so many at the time believed, proved, Brandon was the NEXT GREAT LEAD OFF HITTER. Well, he didn't last long--did he? Even a Career Minor League Consecutive Games Hitting Streak in 2007, hasn't assisted his career, either. A journeyman, nothing more.


A Journey Our Washington Nationals went on in that 3rd Frame this evening. Our Number 21's three run homer--Then followed by My Main Man!! slamming a double down the right field line. An At-Bat that actually saw him pull up from committing on two Jennings Breaking Pitches. Then, getting a wheelhouse toss--that resulted in an RBI DOUBLE--Immediately followed by Wily Mo's first pitch looper to left. A Pulled Swing that if Jason Jennings had delivered just a bit more in over the plate--may well have hit that Train that runs across the top of the Left Field Wall in Houston.

Pena's looking to prove his worth. He's hungry--that's a good sign. Whether Our New Number 16 can keep it up, will determine his long term worth. Still, really would love to know who Washington has given up for him. Until that information is known, never could I be comfortable with this transaction.


How about that Tim Redding? He pitched a FABULOUS GAME. But, in the 4th--did he ever get out of one serious jam. Runners on 1st and 2nd with NO OUTS. Yet, he remained calm and not deterred. Striking out Luke Scott on a FULL COUNT Fastball--right at the knees. Great Pitch. Then, with Ty Wiggington at the plate--reached another Full Count--and threw ONE SERIOUS SLIDER. An off speed pitch that had Wiggington so tied up, he nearly fell out of the batters box, missing the pitch. Outside of a SLUGGER HAMMERING A DRIVE DEEP AND OUT OF A BALLPARK, nothing I find more enjoyable in a baseball game--then that one Asounding Pitch that completely fools a batter. A toss that has the hitter's knees buckling. Pitches which Tim Redding had tonight. Our Number 17 getting out of this potential game changing rally by getting Jason Lane to Pop to Young at First in Foul Territory to retire the Astros and quell the comeback. Really, a fine effort under pressure. And a well deserved third victory of the season for Tim. His ERA now down to 2.53.

Power which Our Washington Nationals showed tonight in Houston, while I sit a good 800 Miles to the south--awaiting the Hurricane Five Force of Dean. A convincing 7-0 Victory that gets this 10 Game Road Trip off to a good start. Curly "W" Number 56 was an unexpected laugher. Humor, which I will not be enjoying in very near future.

Little did I expect to be able to post while down here. Opportunity arose, so I took advantage of it. Now its time to batten down the hatches. Talk to you on the other side.

From The Cancun Bureau of The Nats320 Blog--Adios, Buenas Tardes. Buena Suerte & Vaya Con Dios.

Yeah, I am going to need all of that in the next few hours--GUARANTEED. Although, the Eye of the Storm is 200 miles to Our South. Never do you want to be on the backside whip of the storm. The most dangerous wind forces are there.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Dave Einsel