How Mike Piazza's Low Draft Pick Turned into Baseball Overtime
Mike Piazza, one of the greatest catchers in baseball history, was originally drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 1988 MLB Draft, in the 62nd round, with the 1390th overall pick. Despite being selected so low, Piazza's career is a remarkable example of how talent and hard work can overcome conventional draft expectations.
Factors Contributing to Piazza's Low Draft Position
Several factors contributed to Piazza's relatively low draft selection. Firstly, as a catcher, the position often has lower drafting priority compared to more athletic positions such as outfield or shortstop. Additionally, there were concerns about Piazza's defensive skills, resulting in doubts about his ability to handle the rigors of catching at the major league level. His college performance, particularly during his freshman season at the University of Miami, did not set him apart, leading to a lower selection. Furthermore, while his father was a former major league player, some scouts may have been skeptical about his potential based on family background rather than his actual performance.
The Role of Tommy Lasorda
Mike Piazza's journey in baseball would have been quite different if not for Tommy Lasorda's lifelong friendship with his father. According to Lasorda, he had never seen Mike play any game and had no knowledge of his abilities except for a mention from his father. If not for this friendship, Piazza might not have been drafted at all. Piazza transferred to a junior college and was playing first base when he was drafted in the 62nd round, purely as a favor to Lasorda for his close friend.
Once Piazza was in the minor leagues, it was Tommy Lasorda who convinced him to switch from first base to catcher. This pivotal decision set the stage for the legendary career that followed. His transition to catcher was the turning point that eventually led to his Hall of Fame induction.
An Inspiring Prediction
An interesting side note comes from a Little League conference where former Dodger Tommy Davis was a guest speaker. In 1989 or 1990, Davis told the audience to keep an eye on the Dodgers' minor league system, as they had a promising young player named Mike Piazza who would become a Hall of Fame catcher one day. This prediction came true when Piazza debuted in the Majors in 1992.
Mike Piazza's story is a testament to the importance of persistence and the value of mentorship. It is a reminder that talent often goes unrecognized in the early stages of a career, and that sometimes, it takes a little favor or a supportive shoulder to help a player reach their full potential.
In conclusion, Mike Piazza's low draft pick is a fascinating case study in the unpredictability of professional baseball and the power of mentorship. His transformative journey from being drafted as a favor to becoming one of the greatest catchers in history is a remarkable tale that continues to inspire baseball enthusiasts and aspiring players around the world.