More than 35 incarcerated men displayed their skills and athleticism at San Quentin’s 2016 baseball try-outs.
The San Quentin A’s and Giants coaching staff observed many new players with raw talent.
“This is one is our biggest turnouts, since they opened West Block,” said Giants sponsor and Head Coach Elliot Smith. “We lost a lot of players from last year and we want to replace that talent.”
The influx of youth offenders made up the majority of players fighting for a spot on the teams’ 17-man roster.
“As a youth, being active is a part of our rehabilitation,” said Cordiare McDonald. “Playing and talking to outside teams will help me restructure my life for going home.
“This program teaches you cooperation and that teaches you jobs skills. Because when you do get home you will have to work with other people.”
A’s volunteer and Manager Steve Reichardt said, “It was good to work with the first-time players. The key points we will focus on are our pitching staff, fundamentals on defense, and discipline when at bat.”
The energetic players went through multiple fielding drills to test their baseball IQ and mechanics.
“You can be athletic and talented, but you have to know what to do in real time on the field,” said Isaiah “Raheem” Thompson-Bonilla. “For the infielders, they should know what play to turn in any given situation. The outfielders need to know their cut-off points.”
The mechanics consisted of: the proper way to grip the ball and transition to a smooth throw, how to hold the bat, laying down a bunt and base-running.
“I grew up around baseball; I played in junior league,” said Aaron “Duddah” Sanders. “I’m here to show the best of my abilities. If I’m up to par, I can make something out of this.”
Player hopeful Vance “DT” Farland said, “I’d rather play than watch the game. The training given is positive reinforcement. On the streets, you really don’t get that. With positive reinforcement, you gain the confidence that you can do anything.”
The younger men were not the only ones that came out to show and prove. The 52-year-old Robert Hollis has skills in the infield that might put him on the roster.
“I wanted to leave my mark on second base and show the youngsters that I’ve still got it,” said Hollis. “I pray that everything goes well for everybody.”
Now the task for the coaches is to decide if there is enough talent to build two teams – the A’s and Giants — or just one.
“We are looking to have a team with integrity and cohesiveness,” said A’s Head Coach John “Yahya” Parratt. “We will have more team management this year. We will come out focused to go undefeated.”
