The San Quentin Giants and the San Francisco Giants joined one another in a restorative justice circle that highlighted the need for change through bonding and team building methods.
The impromptu visit was led by, world champion Giants player, outfielder Pat Burrell. Also in attendance were Christian Huang, Giants team Chaplain, and Bobby Baksa, Giants community relations staff member.
Burrell spoke candidly about his own change. He mentioned his upbringing in the Santa Cruz mountains, his major league career, addiction recovery, and winning a World Series with his hometown team – the SF Giants. He also expounded on what led him to the day’s healing circle.
“I woke up one morning and went into the kitchen to dry heave so I wouldn’t wake up the kid,” explained Burrell. “And as I’m leaning over the sink, I see this deer walk by outside the window and I asked myself ‘What am I doing?’.”
Attendees introduced themselves and gave a brief explanation of what baseball meant to them before a Q&A session covered topics related to life and baseball.
The conversations became more personal as there were no camera crews or tape recorders present.
Topics included family, faith, camaraderie, substance abuse, rehabilitation, and the consequences of bad choices.
Visitors began sharing their intimate stories.
SF Giants Chaplain Huang spoke on how he landed the job with the SF Giants.
Huang stated that he was contacted by the Giants organization because of his work with underserved youth in San Francisco’s Tenderloin district.
He and his wife Corey founded the organization “Mobilize Love” ministry.
“I know nothing about baseball,” stated Huang. “I want to know how your heart is.”
Another attendee, Bobby Baksa, ruminated on his first visit to San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.
Baksa said he believed the SF Giants are in line with California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s commitment to the rehabilitation and educational opportunities that have transpired at the rehabilitation center since that visit.
Burrell’s gratitude for the life he has lived enables him to reach out and give back. He first visited SQRC in September of 2024, during the team’s annual mental health visit.
“On my first visit I didn’t know what to expect and once I saw you guys (the team) it touched me,” exclaimed Burrell. “I went home and called my dad John to come here with me (when he returned).”
Pat Burrell’s father John shared his experience, strength, and hope, after the healing circle this past December.
“He (Pat) learned the lesson (of sobriety) much quicker than I did,” said J. Burrell.
Both father and son received treatment at the same rehabilitation center in Calistoga, Calif. eight years apart.
SQRC Athletic Coach K. Bhatt participated in the circle alongside residents and guests.
“Weekends are very special,” said Bhatt. “I especially see it with the baseball team and it is genuine, the family, the camaraderie between members of the team.”
Resident Eliazar “Eli” Guerra said he was hoping for another day on the field with Burrell.
“Pat Burrell and the SF Giants got to know us on a more personal level today. I think it was cool that we talked more about life than baseball,” said Guerra.
Burrell added, “I see how important and how special this program is and as a recovering alcoholic [I know] you’re always one mistake away from a very serious problem.”
