Loading ...I readily admit that I’m prejudiced for our Spotlight players…but can someone explain to me why in the world the Reds would not ask Matt Klinker to appear at Redsfest this weekend?
He’s a local kid, went to Lakota West High School in the Cincinnati area…
He’s smart, well-spoken, and friendly…. And he went from High A to AAA last season (putting up better numbers at every level)…
It’s not like it would cost them a plane ticket or anything…he lives 30 minutes from GABP…
I just don’t understand it.
My guess is that the Reds haven’t spent time talking him up, so no one outside of the diehards (the ones who visit here and other Reds blogs) know of unfortunately. The kid certainly has the talent to be known and could spend time in Cincinnati next season (more than just visiting home), but the Reds haven’t really talked him up and he exploded upward last year. I am 100% with you though, it is a bit silly that he won’t be there though (or will he, just in an uninvited appearance).
That sounds right, Doug. How many non 40-man roster players are attending? Cozart is the only name I can think of off-hand.
But you look at the list of those appearing and there are also others that haven’t been talked up by the organization either…and they’re paying to bring them in.
Wasn’t he at last years Redsfest?
Are we even sure if he was or wasn’t asked to attend, or is this speculation? There might be other pre-existing circumstances that are keeping Klinker from attending as a formal invitee.
He was at last year’s with the Champion’s Baseball Academy folks, I think. And yes, I know he wasn’t asked.
I think Greg is onto something…. Cozart and Frazier are the only two prospects not on the 40 man roster who are attending.
Ok, let’s assume that’s the reason. Both were drafted in ’07, Cozart was drafted in round 2, Matt in round 15. One finished the season in AA, the other in AAA. Who’s the better story?
And I’m not saying not to invite someone else…I’m saying that they missed an opportunity. Matt’s local and it would be the chance for the Reds to show off a local product who had a very impressive season last year and could possibly be with the big club at some point this season.
I’m guessing the Reds are just inviting guys who think will get fans (mostly run-of-the-mill Joe Fan) to come to Redsfest. I think they’re just thinking that most Joe Fans out there have heard of Cozart and Frazier by now. Klinker, not so much.
But I do see your point. What’s the harm in inviting him?
They probably have X number of minor league players they plan on inviting. Since Matt isn’t a household name and Redsfest is about the fans, they probably felt their choices were better suited for this. It’s not a smart move, but as with anything like this, there is always going to be players forgotten or missed.
I think Cozart is the bigger story Bill, simply because the Reds have Paul Janish at SS and have legit talent at pitcher.
Still with you that they should have invited Matt. There simply wasn’t a reason not to. It would have cost them $0. Both Dragon and Bat fans know him (the two places that I expect fans to travel from…. doubt there are many Sarasota fans coming up or even existing and doubtful Carolina sends anyone up there as far as fans go). Just a missed chance.
We’ll agree to disagree, no disrespect to Zack, but…IMO, average Joe has no idea who he is. Not that they know who Matt is either, but it’s very easy in Cincinnati to make a story about a local kid on the verge of pitching for the big club.
There is no media buzz around him. He isn’t listed in the top ten prospects, and most have never heard of him. It’s a PR event for regular fans. The event is NOT for us, gentlemen. The purpose is to generate enthusiasm in the general fan base. And they don’t know Klinker yet.
Agreed. Both Cozart and Frazier are top-10 prospects on all the lists that are currently making the rounds. They have publicity on their side.
I’m a Sarasota fan who exists… and yes, I’d love to see Matt Klinker at Redsfest… but it’s way too cold (and too far) for me to even think about going.
Clarification : former Sarasota fan. They’re Pirates now.
Speaking of I don’t get it. Daniel Ray Herrera write right handed. He said he is just weird.
Excuse me…writes right handed
@Dave in Mason:
ambidextrous.
Has anyone mentioned why Homer isn’t at RedsFest, or Paul Janish?? Sorry if I missed it.
@Steve:
Just watched the introductions on YouTube, and was wondering the same thing…