Philadelphia Phillies: A Winning Camaraderie
By Tal Venada
In today’s contract-driven baseball, more emphasis is on the individual and statistics. However, Latinos on the red and white are more old school.
Watching the players interact during a weekend contest, Mike Schmidt remarked about their approach to the game: The 2016 Philadelphia Phillies reminded him of baseball in his day. And manager Pete Mackanin clarified their unexpected success: They played as a team. Therefore, while other organizations had more talent on paper, the Phils had the advantage of performing as one.
"IN OTHER WORDS: “The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a man’s determination.” –Tommy Lasorda"
Mackanin – who can speak and joke in Spanish – has filled out his starting lineup by giving every man an opportunity to shine. On the other hand, Andres Blanco, who is now a free agent, was basically the veteran presence for Franco, Hernandez, Galvis and Herrera; and he’ll probably return with a decent raise. Yet, while Blanco has frequently provided instant offense off the bench and filled in for recuperating infielders, the reserve has also been like a big brother when Franco and Hernandez have made crucial fielding errors. Don’t hang your head in the fifth inning. Redeem yourself!
Besides the two-handed pointing, the bull horns and the heavenly thanks for continued success at the plate, these players also have no shortage of energy or encouragement for their teammates. And this passion is contagious because Cameron Rupp, Tommy Joseph and Cody Asche flashed their own celebratory sign in September when they smashed a double.
Don’t think for a second the red pinstripes went unnoticed after their 25-19 start last year: Other clubs had paid the price for underestimating them. And making a name for themselves has not been an accident. What are they earning from other National League players? Respect!