07.30.2011: Getting a Second Chance

Salvador Sanchez, to me, provides the neatest story on the team. Being around him everyday, Salvador is truly one of the most genuine, nicest people I have ever met. Back in Rookie Ball at age 25, Salvador is by no means where he envisioned himself when he first came up with the White Sox organization. I picked up "Sanchey" from the airport and I remember how much he impressed me during our conversation on the ride back. With the direction of the conversation, he had every opportunity to candidly complain or mope about being back in Great Falls, but, instead, all he could talk about was how excited he was to see his host family--the same family he stayed with in 2007--and excited he was at the opportunity. Not a single ounce of negativity in his sentiments and, to be honest with you, if anyone deserved a free pass to be upset, he was the guy. And his words were not just lip-service. Sanchey's been a leader on this team. One of the most loved guys in the clubhouse, he still talks to young hitters about their approach and serves as a "Big Brother" so Jeffer Patino, the lone other Latin-American player (and he did the same for Jerry Puentes while he was still here). I have had plenty of conversations with people a part of the White Sox organization--even those who specialize in an area that in no way, shape, or form involves Sanchey, but every one of them goes out of their way to speak highly of him.

In my position, you meet guys you like, you meet guys you don't like, and then you meet truly special young men. Salvador is a truly special young man.

Check out the story KFBB's Lindsey Thiry did on him...