An Update On Juan Lara

This story of Lara's drive, determination, and humility coupled with the organization's commitment to him (financially and otherwise) reminded me of why, even with their horrendous on filed exploits of late, I'm proud to be a fan of this team.

over 2 years ago Harry Doyle 8 comments 4 recs |

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As crappy as this season has been so far, Juan Lara’s story is still awesome. I would be shocked if he ever made it to a major league pitching mound, but then I’m shocked he is doing what he is doing right now.

Now he’s a fixture at the Player Development Complex. He reports to work each morning ready for whatever challenges the Indians’ rehabilitation staff has in store for him, and he hangs around afterward to serve as a mentor to the young Latin players in the organization.

“He’s like a big brother to the other players, especially the young pitchers,” said James Quinlan, the Indians’ rehabilitation and medical coordinator. “And I hear he’s a pretty good cook, too. He handles the dinner for some of these guys.”

by APV on May 20, 2009 2:36 PM EDT reply actions

Maybe someday in the future, the Indians organization can annually award a minor league player in their system who overcomes odds with drive, determination and humility the Juan Lara Award.

Juan Salas: Smartest man in baseball?

by emd2k3 on May 20, 2009 3:49 PM EDT reply actions

Hey, you’re a copywriter, yes? You mind if I email you?

by afh4 on May 20, 2009 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions

sadly, if this was a MLB award it would probably be awarded to PED because of his size.

FE WEE

by westbrook on May 20, 2009 4:53 PM EDT up reply actions

+1 – that’s a good idea, one that I wouldn’t be surprised to have come to pass – it would be a nice gesture and tribute to Lara’s determination, even if he never makes it back to a ML mound (which isn’t out of the question).

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on May 20, 2009 8:31 PM EDT up reply actions

Hell, one more week of this, and I’m ready to give Lara the closer’s role.

by supermarioelia on May 20, 2009 5:28 PM EDT reply actions

Great story. A little over-the-top with the “humanity” comment, though. It is certainly a humane act for the Tribe to stick with him, but I see it as an investment to show all aspiring Latin American ballplayers that they can trust the team.

I’m really happy for the kid, and expect his baseball future to be bright (in some fashion).

"Ignorance more frequently begets confidence than does knowledge..." C. Darwin

by Spidey on May 21, 2009 9:35 AM EDT reply actions