In this edition of Docking with the Ports, we present to you Season Ticket Holder & the newest member of the Ports sales team Greg “Cool Papa” Bell.

What sport are you best at playing?

Baseball

What is your favorite TV show?

MLB Network

Favorite movie?

Major League I and II, & Rudy

What was your first car?

1957 Chevy

Where did you go to college & what did you study?

San Jose College – Business

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Sitting in Sec 113 row 1 seat 5 & working for the Ports

Do you have any hidden talents?

Writing

What famous actor would play you in a movie?

Al Pacino

Where is your favorite place to vacation?

Mexico and Hawaii

Do you have any weird habits?

Biting my knuckles while thinking

Who have you met that is famous?

Dave Henderson, Ricky Henderson, Greg Caderat, Campy Campanaris, Mike Moore, Shooty Babbitt

Would you rather be friends with Brian Wilson or A-Rod?

A- Rod

Do you collect anything?

Baseball Memorabilia

Aside from working with the Ports, what is the best job you’ve ever had?

National Sales Manager for 10 Radio Stations

If you weren’t working in sports, what would you want to be doing?

Playing Baseball Oakland A’s Fantasy Camps

Favorite restaurant in Stockton?

Original Joe’s

Favorite 2011 Ports memory?

Almost falling onto the field to catch a foul ball

Favorite baseball team?

Oakland A’s

Predictions for the 2012 World Series…

Oakland A’s…of course

Sports in High School?

Baseball and Wrestling

Finish this sentence: In high school I had a crush on…

Carol Willis

My favorite bands/singers are?

Tower of Power

Banner Island Ballpark isn’t just home to the 11-time California League Champion Stockton Ports baseball team. Banner Island is also home to the infamous creature from the Delta otherwise known as Splash. With his bright red fur, Splash the mascot can sometimes be mistaken for Elmo, or even Santa Claus. You can, however, pick Splash out of any crowd once you get a look at his giant 7’5” stature, size 28EE shoe and bright blue hair waving gloriously in the wind.

Splash can be seen at every Stockton Ports home game, and also around the community during the season, as well as the off-season. Splash is a very important aspect of the Ports organization; a big responsibility comes from being a team mascot. During the 2010/2011 season, not only did Splash entertain fans during 70 Ports homes games, but he also made close to 80 separate appearances around the community.

The Ports, and Splash, make it a priority to stay very active in the community when it comes to children’s education and non-profit organizations. So far this off-season, Splash has appeared at 20 events, with many more scheduled before the Ports opening day on April 12, 2012!

During this time of year, Splash is very busy with the Ports reading program, Baseball by the Books presented by Subway Restaurants. A record 74 schools are currently participating in this free program, totaling almost 40,000 students! Each child is required to complete certain reading requirements, and once they do, they will receive two free tickets to a Ports game in 2012. The school with the best overall participation will also receive $1,000 towards their PTA. Splash will be visiting many of these schools along with a Ports representative for free kick-off assemblies.

During each 20-minute assembly, Community Relations Manager Margaret Sacchet, who is in charge of organizing the reading program, addresses the students and teachers, filling them in on the reading program requirements. From there, Splash is introduced to the audience. Once Splash makes his grand entrance the book “H is for Home Run” by Brad Herzog is read to the crowd and acted out by Splash. To conclude the program, students are encouraged to ask questions regarding the reading program, Splash, and Ports baseball.

“This is one of the busiest times of the year for me, as well as our mascot,” said Sacchet. “I currently have 26 schools on the calendar for assemblies. That is the most we have ever done! These are always fun to do because all of the schools are so different, and it is fun to see the reaction the kids have to Splash. If the kids get excited and are more interested in reading, then we have done a good job.”

Splash has already paid a visit to the following schools: Ripon Elementary School, Louis Bohn Elementary, Davis Elementary, and Spanos Elementary. Upcoming appearances include: Williams Middle School, Walter Woodard, George McPharland Elementary, Henry School, Rio Calaveras, Lincoln Elementary, Martin Luther King, Jr., Peyton Elementary, Weston Elementary, Glenwood Elementary, Sutherland Elementary, River Oaks Charter, Waterloo Elementary, Rosa Parks Elementary, Oakwood Elementary, Central School in Tracy, Elmwood School, George Y. Komure, Monticello School, and Grunsky Elementary.

If you would like to purchase tickets for the Ports 2012 season, or find out more information about Baseball by the Books and scheduling a Splash appearance, please contact Margaret Sacchet at (209) 644-1900 or msacchet@stocktonports.com.

Docking with the Ports sits down with Josh Lansford as he talks his season in Stockton, family and the transition from a fielder to a pitcher.

Stockton Ports: What was your time like with the Ports in 2011?

Josh Lansford: The 2011 season with the Ports was a great experience. To be able to play only two hours from my hometown was great. The amount of support I received from family and close friends at Banner Island was encouraging and allowed me to feel like I was playing at home again.

SP: Do you have a favorite memory from the season?

JL: The memory I will take away with me from this season is when [Michael] Choice hit the walk- off bomb going into the all star break. I think it gave us momentum going into the second half and allowed us to realize that no matter what the score is we have the offense to come back in the later innings.

SP: Who were you closest with on the team in Stockton?

JL: [pitcher] AJ Huttenlocker and I have been roommates since I came over from Chicago.

SP: Funniest guy on the team?

JL: [pitcher] AJ Griffin.

SP: You had a fantastic first half of the season with Stockton, and also did really well in the second half. What keeps you motivated to do well?

JL: My wife and family motivate me the most to succeed. I feel that when I do well, it also makes my family and friends feel good. Without them I would not be able to pursue my dream of becoming a Major League baseball player.

SP: What was it like winning the California Northern Division Championship Title this year?

JL: Winning at any level is special; we never lost confidence throughout the season. We would go on skids where we would lose a few games in a row and it never seemed to affect the mood in the clubhouse.

SP: Will you keep in touch with any of your Ports teammates during the off-season?

JL: We all keep in touch loosely on Facebook and texting but nothing outside of that until spring training.

SP: What will you do in the off-season to prepare for 2012?

JL: Every off-season my younger brother Jared and I have a routine to get back into baseball shape. It starts a couple weeks after the season ends and it will last up until camp.

SP: What are you most looking forward to during the 2012 season?

JL: Seeing all of the guys after a long break.

SP: Is there anything you want to improve on for 2012?

JL: In 2012 I want to be able to pitch more innings and possibly turn into a ninth inning guy.

SP: Do you have anything fun planned, non-baseball related?

JL: This off-season my wife and I plan to spend a lot of time enjoying our house out in Arizona and taking our dog Jack out for walks to the park.

 

SP: Favorite restaurant in Stockton?

JL: Whirlow’s

SP: Finish this sentence – I can’t live without my…

JL: Family.

SP: What is your favorite thing to do in the off-season?

JL: Spend time at my home.

SP: Did you think St. Louis would win the World Series? Did you watch?

JL: I watched every inning. Our fall league team in 2007 was partnered up with St. Louis and I played with a lot of those guys and got to know them.

SP: What is something that most people don’t know about you?

JL: I married my high school sweetheart.

SP: Favorite baseball player of all time?

JL: [father] Carney Lansford. And no relation favorite, Dave Stewart.

SP: Who do you pattern your pitching style after? Anyone you really look up to?

JL: Dave Stewart (I have a long way to go).

SP: When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

JL: Major League baseball player

SP: Baseball runs in your family. Does your dad Carney, former All-Star and Silver Slugger-winning third baseman who played 15 years in the Major Leagues, give you a lot of advice?

JL: We always talk and he gives me tons of advice on what hitters are trying to do against the style of pitcher I have evolved into.

SP: What have you learned from him since you started playing baseball?

JL: Everything on the field to in the clubhouse; how to handle yourself as a professional.

SP: Your uncles Phil & Joe played professional baseball as well. Any advice from them?

JL: Tons of support.

SP: And your brother Jared, he was drafted in 2005 by the A’s. Are you guys competitive with one another?

JL: Not competitive, he taught me how to pitch.

SP: You were first selected by the Cubs in 2006. What was that like for you?

JL: A much different experience with the market they play in. I met a lot of great guys while I was with Chicago.

SP: What was the transition like for you going from the Cubs organization to the A’s?

JL: Growing up in the clubhouse in Oakland made the transition very easy.

SP: You went from playing third base to pitching, what was that like? How did you adjust?

JL: At first it was very difficult from going from second on the depth chart as a third baseman to a reliever in short season, but now I am enjoying pitching.

SP: What were you studying at Cal Poly State University before you were drafted?

JL: Social Science.

SP: True or false…Your brother could beat you at a home run contest?

JL: False.

SP: What words would you use to describe yourself?

JL: Baseball player, husband, family member.

SP: One food that you just can’t live without?

JL: Turkey Sandwich.

SP: If there was a movie made about your life, who would be the leading actor?

JL: Mark Wahlberg.

Day Two of the Baseball Winter Meetings have come and gone. With all the excitement caught up in MLB trades and free agent signings, the behind-the-scenes is where Ports Director of Business  Development Tim Pasisz does his best work.  Below is his entry about Day Two of the Baseball Winter Meetings.

Somebody please answer two questions for me.

#1 – why does MLB/MiLB always pick the COLDEST place in the United States to hold Winter Meetings? (I’m sure it is nice in Honolulu right now)

#2 – (and even more importantly) why in the world would they start meetings at 7:45am?

Ok, now that I have that out of my system, Tuesday marked Day 2 of the Winter Meetings and what is traditionally the busiest day around here lived up to its reputation.  We started at 7:45 in the morning with the annual California League Meeting.  This is where executives from each of the 10 teams in our league get together in one room and review the previous season, the feedback from the major league affiliates, and go over changes that are occurring for the next season.  Interesting meetings to be involved in, for sure.

Following the meeting, I hit it hard at the Baseball Trade Show.  If you are curious about how many booths are involved at this show, there are well over 300…yes, I check out each one just to make sure we don’t miss out on any opportunities.  However, a lot of the time is spent with appointments with various vendors reviewing their 2012 line.

It never fails, I’ll walk into the Trade Show with a plan in mind, and a budget to follow…hopefully the powers at be don’t read this because I’m pretty sure I blew out both the plan and the budget…BUT we should have some real nice product in the Team Store next year!

And, for the fun part of the day….the evening was the annual Oakland A’s party and the Seattle Mariners party (affiliate of our Everett AquaSox).  The A’s party brings together representatives from each of the Oakland A’s minor league affiliates as well as all levels of Oakland A’s staff, including Mr Moneyball himself, Billy Beane.  After enjoying some food and beverages, Billy addressed the room and covered some of his goals for the coming year and things that are going on in his world.  In case you are wondering, no, we did not receive signed copies of the book or movie….there goes ALL of my Christmas Gift plans.

After each of the parties, we spent a few hours networking with various baseball executives and officials, including having a long discussion with former MLB star Kevin Millar.  He was an accommodating guy and we had a good time visiting with him.

Looking forward to Wednesday…wrap up the Trade Show buying, and then it’s time for fun (because CLEARLY we have not had any up to now)!  Wednesday afternoon the 7^th Inning Stretch group is taking a tour of Cowboy Stadium prior to joining the rest of the Winter Meetings group at the Ballpark in Arlington for the annual Gala party.

Until then, enjoy your warmer weather in California and get excited for the 2012 baseball season, everyone here sure is starting to be!

Every year Major League and Minor League baseball executives congregate at the site of the Baseball Winter Meetings to share ideas, view the newest trends in promotional/merchandise items, and sit-in on many different topics related to the baseball industry. Several members from the Ports front office made the trip and they will be sharing their daily observations from the trip. In this case, Ports Director of Business  Development ( as well as Merchandise Manager extraordinaire) Tim Pasisz gives us an idea of how his first day has been in the “Big-D”.

Inside the Winter Meetings – Day 1

It is that time of year again, the annual tradition of baseball executives, media and job hunters all converging under one roof for 4 days of meetings, meetings and more meetings.

Today marked day one of the 2011 Baseball Winter Meetings.  This year, the meetings are in Dallas, Texas…and if the resort is anything like the rest of the state…everything is bigger in Texas.  The Hilton Anatole resort is huge!  I am here with 8 other representatives of our 7^th Inning Stretch family (2 representatives from the Stockton Ports besides myself, 3 representatives from the Delmarva Shorebirds, 2 from the Everett AquaSox, as well as our company majority owner).  Each of us here has a purpose and has a full slate of meetings, interviews and functions to participate in.

Now, to dispel the rumor that we are here partying and not working…let me just say that you are only PARTIALLY correct.  All of us have actual business meetings from 8am to 4 or 5pm each day, but what happens after 5pm is a different story.

Today’s activities surrounded mainly around the ‘Bob Freitas Seminars’ where each of us attended 5 different training sessions throughout the day to get ideas as to how we can improve what we do at our own ballparks back home…all to give you a better experience in 2012.  These training sessions involved anything from little league programs, merchandise ordering, special events at the ballpark, marketing ideas, social media, ticket sales and promotions, to on-field games and festivities.

Mixed in the middle of the Freitas Seminars (they are divided into morning and afternoon sessions) is the official ‘Opening Session’ of the Winter Meetings and the Awards Luncheon.  The Opening Session is where the Minor League Baseball President welcomes everyone and reviews how MiLB is doing across the nation.

Now, come 5pm today, as referenced above, it was time to relax a bit.  5pm marked the start of the Baseball Trade Show portion of Winter Meetings, however, there is VERY little ordering and business being done on Monday night…there is catching up with people you haven’t seen in a while and enjoying some fine adult beverages.  Unfortunately for me, my time at the Trade Show was cut short as the 7^th Inning Stretch contingency left at 6:15pm to go to our annual company dinner at the Winter Meetings.  For those of you who have read this article over the past couple of years, you will see a pattern here….the dinner was at the restaurant, Texas de Brazil.  This restaurant is a favorite of 7^th Inning Stretch President, Pat Filippone.  Now, I am not complaining, the food is delicious…however I am pretty sure everyone in our group left there feeling about as uncomfortable as possible as we enjoyed way too much of the food.

One major perk of being housed in the same resort as the Major League teams is the overwhelming amount of people you see just walking around the hotel lobby and grounds.  I made sure to say hello to Dusty Baker and remind him that he visited Banner Island Ballpark a few years back (he remembered), said hello to the new member of the Miami Marlins – Heath Bell, and rode the elevator with Joe Torre.

Ok, that’s enough of that….long day ahead tomorrow starting with the 7:45am California League Meeting (yes, for you people still in California, that is 5:45 Cali time!) and then a full day at the Trade Show.  Tomorrow ends with the annual Oakland A’s and Seattle Mariners parties (our Everett team is affiliated with the Mariners).

From Dallas, we’ll talk to you more tomorrow….

Talk to ya’ll tomorrow.

In this edition of Docking with the Ports, Relief Pitcher Scott Deal talks about the fun of being in the bullpen in 2011 and the off-season plans.

Stockton Ports: How was your experience in Stockton this season?

Scott Deal: Playing for the Stockton Ports this season was a great experience both on and off the field. I had a great host family that made being away from the field comfortable and fun. My teammates and coaching staff were great, it was one of the best summers I have had playing professional baseball.

SP: What was the highlight of your 2011 season?

SD: The whole season was a lot of fun, I think clinching the playoffs, and the playoff series wins were my highlights.

SP: Do you have a favorite Ports memory?

SD: There are countless memories, but I will never forget the bullpen. We had a great group of guys all season, and we had a lot of fun together.

SP: Any weird pre-game rituals?

SD: Not really, I just always triple check to make sure I have everything for the game.

SP: What was it like claiming the California Northern Division Championship Title?

SD: It was a lot of fun. It was the first time in my professional career to be part of a team that won a playoff series. We came up a bit short but it was a great experience.

SP: Who were you closest with on the team?

SD: My roommate for the season, [pitcher] Murphy Smith. He was a good roommate and a great friend. I was really excited for him to have the opportunity to play in the Arizona Fall League this fall.

SP: Who was the funniest guy on the team this season?

SD: [outfielder] Rashun Dixon. He always had a smile on his face and made everyone laugh. He enjoyed every day, through the ups and downs of the season.

SP: Will you keep in touch with any of your Ports teammates in the off-season?

SD: Yeah, I try and keep in touch with everyone as much as I can. It is great catching up with guys to see what they are up to.

 

SP: What will you do to get ready for next season in the off-season?

SD: I am working out and running to build strength and endurance for next season. I also recently started biking. It has been a lot of fun.

 

SP: Are there areas where you want to improve for next year?

SD: I want to continue to get better every day, and take it a day at a time. I would like to also get my core stronger.

 

SP: What are you most looking forward to in 2012?

SD: I am unsure what 2012 will bring for me. I am a minor league free agent. Whatever I am doing, I will be looking forward to new adventures.

SP: What is your favorite thing to do in the off-season?

SD: I like spending time with my wife and family. I also enjoy hiking and kayaking when the weather is nice. I recently climbed Mt. St. Helens, it was tough but the view from the top was amazing!

SP: Any big plans for the off-season?

SD: I am taking classes in school, spending time with my wife and family, and also going to all the Seattle Seahawk games. I am a proud season ticket holder!

SP: If you weren’t a pitcher, what position would you want to play?

SD: I would want to play the outfield. I played some in high school and in summer ball. It would be a lot of fun to roam the outfield making plays.

SP: You were selected by the A’s right out of high school in Washington. What was that like for you?

SD: It was really unexpected. I was really excited to live out my dream of playing professional baseball. I have had a great experience and I never will forget it.

SP: Were you intimidated at all, being so young, or were you ready for it?

SD: It was all new to me. I left a couple days after my high school graduation, but everyone made me feel really comfortable and it made for an easy transition.

 

SP: Is there anyone in the A’s organization that you look up to? Anyone you’d like to model your pitching after?

SD: It has been a lot of fun playing with guys throughout my career that are now playing in the major leagues. I have had a lot of great coaches and teammates. My pitching coach in 2006, when I was only 19, was Craig Lefferts (Lefty), and I had him again this last season. He has been one of my favorite coaches to play for. He has taught me so much on and off the field, and he has a lot of great stories.

 

SP: Ports jersey theme nights – This year you all wore five different jerseys. If you could come up with any specialty jersey to wear, what would it be?

SD: I think Christmas in July would be a great idea; there could be interesting jersey designs with that theme. Or country music night would also be a lot of fun.

SP: You do a lot of community events. What was your favorite one in 2011?

SD: The kid’s camps at Banner Island Ballpark were a lot of fun. I hope to be a teacher and coach some day, so I really enjoy helping and working with the kids.

SP: Favorite baseball player of all time?

SD: Ken Griffey, Jr.  Growing up close to Seattle made me a huge fan.

SP: Finish this sentence – I can’t live without my…

SD: Wife, Shanley.

SP: What is something that most people don’t know about you?

SD: I am a clean and neat freak. I like things really clean and organized.

SP: Favorite restaurant in Stockton?

SD: Whirlows, I went at least once a week!

SP: If you could describe yourself in 3 words, what would they be?

SD: Quiet, Relaxed, Sarcastic

SP: One food that you can’t live without?

SD: Chips and Salsa

SP: True or False – You could beat [pitcher] Rob Gilliam in a swimming race across the Delta?!

SD: False! You couldn’t get me to even think about swimming in the Delta!

Jeremy Barfield dazzled the Ports faithful during the summer of 2010. In the last visit with Outfield Jeremy Barfield, he shared with us his unusual off-season job as a Limo driver. In 2011, Barfield was a member of the Double-A Midland Rockhounds.  We catch with the “Rocket Arm” himself in this edition of  Docking with the Ports.

Stockton Ports: What was your time like with the Rockhounds in 2011?

Jeremy Barfield: It was nice to play in my home state of Texas. Midland is by far the toughest place I’ve had to play so far professionally. It was in a severe drought and wildfires were common. Thankfully, we had lots of fans show up every night.

SP: How different was it playing in Midland than it was in Stockton?

JB: It was way harder to hit in Midland. It was almost a nightly occurrence to have a dust storm blowing in the hitters face.

SP: What do you think about Stockton winning the California Northern Division Championship Title this year?

JB: I’m proud of that group of guys because they were so focused all season long.

SP: Who were you closest with on the team in Midland?

JB: Definitely my roommate on the road [pitcher] Trey Barham.

SP: Funniest guy on the team in both Stockton & Midland?

JB: By far [pitcher] AJ Griffin.

SP: Will you keep in touch with any of your Ports/Midland teammates in the off-season?

JB: Yeah I keep in touch with some of the guys.

SP: What will you do in the off-season to prepare for 2012?

JB: I am planning on playing Winter Ball in the coming weeks.

SP: Do you have anything fun planned, non-baseball related?

JB: I am definitely going to see my family after new years. I miss my nieces.

SP: Is there anything you want to improve on for 2012?

JB:  Regardless of where I start the season I just want to be more consistent as a hitter.

SP: What are you most looking forward to during the 2012 season?

JB: Just a chance to really open some people’s eyes if I play the way I am capable of.

 

SP: What is your favorite thing to do in the off-season?

JB: Go to NBA games which unfortunately I can’t because of this lockout.

 

SP: Favorite restaurant in Stockton?

JB: Definitely L&L Hawaiian BBQ.

SP: Finish this sentence… I can’t live without my___________.

JB: iPhone.

SP: Did you think St. Louis would win the World Series? Did you watch?

JB: I thought they’d have a chance because of their veterans but after game 4 I thought they were done. It was the best World Series I’ve watched since 2001.

SP: What is something that most people don’t know about you?

JB: I own a pair of Cowboy boots.

SP: Favorite baseball player of all time?

JB: Ken Griffey, Jr.

SP: When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

JB: I always wanted to be a baseball player even when other kids said astronaut or fireman.

SP: Baseball runs in your family…What’s it like having your brother in the majors?

JB: He always has great advice for me and is always there when I need him.

SP: Are you two competitive with one another?

JB: Only in ping pong and video games.

SP: Does he give you good advice?

JB: The best.

SP: Does your dad, former MLB player, give you any advice?

JB: Absolutely.

SP: True or false…Your brother could beat you at a home run contest?

JB: Completely false and he would agree!

SP: If you weren’t playing in right field, what other position would you like to play?

JB: Right Field is in my DNA. If left field gets me to the Majors so be it, but I can contribute the most in right field.

SP: You were selected by the Mets in 2006. What made you wait until you were selected by the A’s in 2008?

JB: I wish I had some great story to tell you but ultimately it was money. It wasn’t enough on the table for me to pass up college.

SP: You went to college at San Jacinto College in Houston Texas, what did you study?

JB: I didn’t declare a major so it would be easier to transfer my credits to a university afterwards.

SP: One food that you just can’t live without?

JB: Tex-Mex.

SP: If there was a movie made about your life, who would be the leading actor?

JB: Idris Elba because everything sounds better in a British Accent.

Docking with the Ports sits down with Rob Gilliam as he discusses the season in Stockton and what his off-season consists of.

Stockton Ports: How was your experience in Stockton this season?

Rob Gilliam: It was great! I had a really good time.

SP: Do you have a favorite Ports memory?

RG: I really had fun making ice cream floats for the fans [on Root Beer Float Day], and obviously the spray in the locker room after the Division Championship Series win!
SP: Who were you closest with on the team?

RG: It’d be impossible to name just one person, we had the closest knit team I’ve ever played on, and everyone on the team became really good friends with one another.

SP: Who was the funniest guy on the team this season?

RG: Hands down, [pitcher] Connor Hoehn!!!

SP: What was it like claiming the California Northern Division Championship Title?

RG: It was a blast! The locker room after was the craziest moment I’ve ever had in baseball.

SP: Any weird pre-game rituals?

RG: I drink a few energy drinks, but that’s about it.

SP: Will you keep in touch with any of your Ports teammates in the off-season?

RG: Yes, definitely. Hopefully I’ll be able to hang out with a few this off-season.

SP: Ports jersey theme nights – This year you all wore five different jerseys. If you could come up with any specialty jersey to wear, what would it be?

RG: A’s, duh!
SP: What was the highlight of your 2011 season?

RG: Winning the Northern Division Series.

SP: What are you most looking forward to in 2012?

RG: Getting back out on the field and playing in front of fans again.
SP: What will you do to get ready for next season in the off-season?

RG: Follow the off-season workout program the A’s have for us, and try to make some physical gains.
SP: Are there areas where you want to improve for next year?

RG: All year I struggled with my change-up, but I made some strides at instructs, and I hope to build off that.

SP: Were you expected to be drafted when you were in 2009 or did it come as a surprise?

RG: I thought I had a chance, and was really happy when I was drafted.
SP: If you weren’t a pitcher, what position would you want to play?

RG: Shortstop, what else?

SP: Favorite baseball player of all time?

RG: Nolan Ryan
SP: Finish this sentence – I can’t live without…

RG: Mexican food.
SP: What is something that most people don’t know about you?

RG: I really dislike pickles.
SP: Favorite restaurant in Stockton?

RG: Green Frog.
SP: What is your favorite thing to do in the off-season?

RG: Hang out with my family and friends!

SP: Any big plans for the off-season?

RG: Nope!
SP: Did you think St. Louis was going to win the World Series? Did you watch?

RG: Never would have thought St. Louis would pull it out, until the win in game 6. That was unbelievable!
SP: If you could describe yourself in 3 words, what would they be?

RG: Spontaneous, fun, yes-man.
SP: One food that you can’t live without?

RG: Macaroni & Cheese.
SP: You were born in Virginia, and live in North Carolina. What’s the biggest difference between the east and west coast?

RG: The biggest and most noticeable difference has to be the humidity.  The east coast is really humid during the summer, but that didn’t seem to be an issue in Stockton.
SP: What did you study in college at Greensboro?

RG: Political Science.

SP: Your birthday is coming up at the end of November. Any big plans?

RG: Nope, no big plans, if anyone would like to take me on vacation they’re more than welcome!

It’s the first week of May, Ryan Doolittle is just two weeks removed from being selected as the “California League Pitcher of the Week” for his stellar two outings over the April 10-18th time frame where he was nearly un-hittable (10IP, 5H, & 11K). The great start to the season ends quickly as right-elbow is re-aggravated and the issues surface again. Ryan sits down and talks about the great start to the season, the frustrating end to the year, what he has been doing to get back on the field and the sibling rivalry between his brother, A’s prospect (outfielder converted pitcher) Sean in this week’s Docking with the Ports.

Stockton Ports: Back in April, you were selected as the CAL Pitcher of the Week. How was that for you?

Ryan Doolittle: Amazing.  It’s always a good feeling being recognized for what you do on the field.

SP: You were injured pretty early on in the season. What happened?

RDI’ve had some elbow issues in the past and I just re-aggravated it, nothing major and nothing to worry about.

SP: What have you been doing since your injury?

RD: Well I went down to Arizona back to our spring training facility and started doing some treatment and rehab work.  I took some time off of throwing and slowly worked my way back into game in the AZL.

SP: How are you doing today?

RD: I’m doing really well today, thank you.  It’s now the off-season and I am resting my arm but getting my body trained and ready for next year; counting down the days until spring training.

SP: Even though you were in Stockton a short time this season, any favorite memories?

RD: I would have to say coming to the ballpark everyday.  It was a fun and exciting environment even before the games started; from the games and the stadium itself to everyone that worked there and came to the games.

SP: Who was the funniest guy on the team?

RD: I can’t single one guy out.  We had a very close team, and when we all get together I don’t think I ever stopped laughing and smiling.  I always had a good time with our team.

SP: Who were you closest with on the team?

RD: Once again I’m going to say the whole team.  I was very close with the whole pitching staff being a starter and a bullpen guy, but I spent a lot of time hanging out with the position players as well.

SP: What do you think about Stockton winning the California Northern Division Championship Title this year?

RD: I think its great, and I’m very happy for them.  I wish I could have stayed with the team through out the whole season but I’m very happy for them and I’m happy to even be apart of the Stockton family.

SP: What will you do in the off-season to prepare for 2012?

RD: For my arm, I’ll give it some time and some rest until about late December.  Then I’ll get on my throwing program and get ready for spring training.  My body will take a little break, a week or so and then I’ll start on my off-season training.  A lot of lower body strength and core work, so come spring time I’m in the best shape to do my job.

SP: Do you have anything fun planned, non-baseball related?

RD: The off-season, for me, is a time to rest and get better and ready for next year but it also gives me a chance to spend some time with my family and catch up with friends.

SP: Is there anything you want to improve on for 2012?

RD: Consistency.  As a pitcher, that’s the biggest key being able to repeat and be consistent day in and day out

SP: What are you most looking forward to in 2012?

RD: Starting the season.  I have no idea what the season will have in store for me. I just have to come in prepared an ready to go.

SP: Favorite restaurant in Stockton?

RD: In my short time in Stockton I really didn’t venture out too much.  I had a great host family so I didn’t have to eat out to often.

SP: Finish this sentence: I can’t live without my…

RD: Hair gel!

SP: Have you seen the movie Moneyball?

RD: I have not seen it yet, but I have heard a lot of good things about it.

SP: What is your favorite thing to do in the off-season?

RD: Workout and get ready for next season and coach.  I run a lot of lessons and baseball camps in the offseason.

SP: Who is winning the World Series?

RD: I wish it could be the A’s, but if I had to pick I’m pulling for the Texas Rangers.

SP: Will you keep in touch with any of your Ports teammates in the off-season?

RD: Of course.  I just got back home from Instructional League and I’ve been talking to a couple guys every week.

SP: What is something that most people don’t know about you?

RD: Good question. I love chicken fingers.  If I could live on them for the rest of my life, I think I’d be OK!

SP: Any weird pre-game rituals?

RD: Nothing too weird for me, just little things.  I have certain songs I have to listen to, I have a certain stretching routine and my right sock always goes on first.

SP: Favorite baseball player of all time?

RD: Wow, of all time…I was a huge Cal Ripken, Jr. fan growing up. I love the way he played and the way he carried himself day in and day out, on and off the field.

SP: When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

RD: Ever since I could talk I wanted to be a professional baseball player.

SP: What is it like having your brother also playing professional baseball?

RD: Personally I love it.  It is great having him around and being able to use him as a guide through out my career.  It makes a lot of the transitions you have to make a lot easier knowing someone has been through it all, especially when you’ve grown up and lived with that person all your life.

SP: Are you guys competitive with one another?

RD: Very! There’s not a whole lot we do that’s not competitive.

SP: True or False – Your brother could beat you at arm wrestling.

RD: False!

SP: Where did you go to school & what did you study?

RD: I went to UNCW my freshman year and studied Sports Marketing.  I then transferred and went to Cumberland County College in south Jersey for my sophomore year and studied Elementary Education.

SP: Why UNC Wilmington?

RD: I knew I wanted to go down south, and when I went down to visit I loved the campus, the coaches and it looked like a good fit for me.  They were also one of the only schools that would let me play multiple positions.  I went in as a catcher/pitcher and wound up playing a little first base as well.

SP: Were you expecting to be drafted when you were? What was that like?

RD: I really had no idea.  I knew I had scouts coming to watch me and I wanted to get drafted but at that point I was unsure about the possibilities.  When I got the call that the A’s drafted me I was driving in my car and I had to pull off the road so I could answer all the phone calls and texts I was getting.

SP: You are from New Jersey. Who would you rather be friends with? Snooki or The Situation?

RD: I think I would actually like to hang out with Vinny and Pauly D more.  I feel I’m more like them then anyone else on the show!

The fun of the off-season gives us the opportunity to catch up with former Ports as well as the Q &A sessions with Ports front office staff.  This week we dive into who the real Ports President Pat Filippone isi n  this edition of Docking with the Ports.

1.       Do you play a musical instrument? If so, what is it? – Guitar

2.       What sport are you best at? – Nothing at this point.

3.       What is your favorite TV show? – Currently Mad Men.  All time – X-Files

4.       Favorite movie? – Shawshank Redemption, Fast Times at Ridgemont High

5.       What are your 3 biggest pet peeves? – Lack of common courtesy and respect by people in regard to their interactions with other human beings and their community.

6.       What was your first car? – 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser

7.       Where did you go to college & what did you study? – Mary Washington College, Fredericksburg, Virgnia.  B.S. degree in Business Administration.

8.       Do you have any pets?  - Yes – Scottish Terrier Sport.

9.       Where do you see yourself in 5 years? – Continuing to grow 7^th Inning Stretch.

10.   How did you get started working in sports? – Lifelong passion and went after it by making an opportunity for myself with professional persistence and then personal performance.

11.   Do you have any hidden talents? – Not that I am aware of.

12.   What famous actor would play you in a movie? – Russell Crowe

13.   Where is your favorite place to vacation? – Hawaii or visiting a United States Presidential Museum, house, or grave site.

14.   Do you have any weird habits? – Probably.

15.   Who have you met that is famous? – Too many to list here.

16.   Would you rather be friends with Brian Wilson or A-Rod?  - the clean cut Brian Wilson that I had in Fresno.

17.   Do you collect anything? – Memories and music.

18.   Aside from working with the Ports, what is the best job you’ve ever had?  - delivering the Washington Post.

19.   If you weren’t working in sports, what would you want to be doing?  – C.E.O. of a publicly traded company, the President of the United States, or the Executive Director of the Baseball Hall of Fame or a United States Presidential Museum.

20.   Favorite restaurant in Stockton? – In N Out or Kinder’s  & Arroyo’s– loyal Stockton Ports sponsors.

21.   Favorite 2011 Ports memory? – Beating San Jose to win the Northern Division of the California League.

22.   What are you most looking forward to during the 2012 Ports season? – Winning our twelfth league title.

23.   Favorite baseball team? – MLB – Boston Red Sox.  MiLB – Stockton Ports, Delmarva Shorebirds, Everett AquaSox.

24.   World Series – Who is in it, who is winning it? Either the Cardinals, Brewers, Tigers or Rangers.

25.   Finish this sentence: In high school I had a crush on Heather Locklear

26.   My favorite bands/singers are? – Gram Parsons