Mike LaValliere Evaluates Pirates' Catchers
PITTSBURGH (93-7 The Fan) - Saying all Pirates, current and former, are a family, Mike LaValliere is back with the club as a Spring Training Special Instructor.
Clint Hurdle called LaValliere about three years ago and said he would like him to help, even though it had been a while since he put the uniform on.
LaValliere had helped Lloyd McLendon when he was manager and said it was the right time for him to get back into the game.
"As soon as I got in the clubhouse, it was like I never stepped out of it," LaValliere said. "It's what I love. I wake up every morning and can't wait to get to the ballpark. And that's a special feeling."
LaValliere helped lead the Pirates to three straight appearances in the NL Championship Series and was a Gold Glove catcher in 1987.
Here are his thoughts on three of the Pirates' catchers:
Starter Francisco Cervelli
LaValliere said the reason Russell Martin was available three years ago is because of how high the Yankees were on the 29-year-old Cevelli. LaValliere said there is nothing wrong with his game mechanically, it's just a matter of him asking questions and reinforcing proper techniques.
"This guy is a consummate professional. He is outstanding with the pitchers, great communication, very detailed in his preparation. Works incredibly hard on and off the field, he's a monster in the weight room."
"Trying to integrate him in with the new pitching staff. Making sure that the nuances of catching Gerrit Cole is a little bit different from Charlie Morton and Francisco Liriano. Trying to get their little tweaks of how to push their buttons, and so a lot of it is the mental side."
Tony Sanchez
LaValliere said the former No. 1 pick works hard and has pushed his way through adversity.
"Physically very strong, but mentally he's had to go through some things. It's like the song 'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.' Well, I think we starting to see that happen with Tony right now. A lot of confidence."
Elias Diaz
The Venezuelan had career-highs in most offensive categories in an All-Star season with Altoona.
"He's got some great tools, needs a little bit of seasoning. Give him a little bit of time at Triple-A. He's a great kid, a throwback. Arm-wise, it's about a good as I've seen. He's made some good strides at the plate. He has a bright future."