I've noticed a strange phenomenon that seems to be gaining momentum the past few years.
Why are major league players so fascinated with Michael Young?
Yes, he comes off as a really good guy, and obviously the dude can flat hit. He's now made the all-star game as a second baseman, shortstop, and third baseman. Great player, I get that.
But I've never, in all my years of watching baseball, seen a guy that so many opposing players trip over themselves to talk to.
Against the Angels a couple of weeks ago during a pitching change, Young was at second base with Hamilton on first. All four Angels infielders - Figgins, Aybar, Kendrick, and the first baseman - were huddled around Young just yucking it up with him.
Yukulis always chats him to death at first base. So do just about every first baseman. I know he's still very good friends with Teixeira and A-Rod.
Almost every time Young reaches first, the first baseman will come over and pat him on the butt and chat it up. I know this is common, but with Young it just seems totally different. Young will smile and say a couple of words, while the first baseman is just talking and giggling like a schoolgirl around Justin Timberlake.
When he goes to the plate, catchers often reach out and slap hands. Even umpires seem to stop and talk to Young frequently between innings and when he's on base.
Again, I know he's a good player and is well respected, but so are lots of guys. I'm just curious why Young seems receives so much more respect and adoration than most players.
Anyone else notice this or have any thoughts?
Why are major league players so fascinated with Michael Young?
Yes, he comes off as a really good guy, and obviously the dude can flat hit. He's now made the all-star game as a second baseman, shortstop, and third baseman. Great player, I get that.
But I've never, in all my years of watching baseball, seen a guy that so many opposing players trip over themselves to talk to.
Against the Angels a couple of weeks ago during a pitching change, Young was at second base with Hamilton on first. All four Angels infielders - Figgins, Aybar, Kendrick, and the first baseman - were huddled around Young just yucking it up with him.
Yukulis always chats him to death at first base. So do just about every first baseman. I know he's still very good friends with Teixeira and A-Rod.
Almost every time Young reaches first, the first baseman will come over and pat him on the butt and chat it up. I know this is common, but with Young it just seems totally different. Young will smile and say a couple of words, while the first baseman is just talking and giggling like a schoolgirl around Justin Timberlake.
When he goes to the plate, catchers often reach out and slap hands. Even umpires seem to stop and talk to Young frequently between innings and when he's on base.
Again, I know he's a good player and is well respected, but so are lots of guys. I'm just curious why Young seems receives so much more respect and adoration than most players.
Anyone else notice this or have any thoughts?
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