Q&A with World Futures All-Stars

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Q&A with World Futures All-Stars
07/09/2006 6:29 PM ET
MLB.com

MLB.com offered fans the opportunity to e-mail questions to this year's Futures Game players and coaches. Here's what they had to say in response. We received scores of questions and did our best to get as many answered as possible.
Anderson Gomes (White Sox), INF
What was your reaction to the World Cup and what do people at home (Brazil) say to you when you tell them you are a baseball player?
It hurt bad. My feelings were hurt, but we will come back next time and win it. Most people at home don't even know what baseball is. I started playing early, at age 7, so it is all I know. I played soccer, but just for fun.
Salomon Manriquez (Nationals), C
Did you have an idol growing up and what would you say if you ever met him?
Ivan Rodriguez is the best. He can hit, he can run, he can hit for average and for power. I have not met him, but the first thing I would do is shake his hand and ask him what he does, his drills, to make him better.
Pablo Sandoval (Giants), INF
You recently moved from catcher to corner infielder. How has the transition been, and which is harder to play -- first or third base?
It all happened very fast and all I can do is accept it. I'm the type of person who loves this game, so it does not matter where I play. I think the Giants think I can make it to the big leagues faster by playing three positions than one. The hardest position is catcher. You are basically the owner of the game.
Jose Tabata (Yankees), OF
You are the youngest player in this game (at 17). What has this experience been like for you and what do you think about the chance to play for the Yankees one day?
I'm just trying to have fun and enjoy it. My life has changed a lot in the last year and I thank God it is great. To play in New York is a dream. The secret is to work hard. If you work hard, you will have success in your life.
Joey Votto (Reds), INF
Every year, there seems to be more Canadians in the big leagues and in the Minors. Where does baseball rank in popularity in Canada, and will it ever surpass hockey?
I would say baseball is the third most popular sport in Canada. Hockey is first and basketball is second. Hockey will always be No. 1. It's like football here. No chance baseball will pass it. I always loved baseball, though.
Edgar Martinez (Red Sox), P
Has the success of several of the Red Sox young pitchers (Jonathan Papelbon, Jon Lester, Manny Delcarmen, etc.) inspired you? Do you feel you will be the next one to shine on the big-league level?
I'm very proud of what they have done. I'm happy for them. Papelbon? He's doing great. Look at him pitch. Me? We'll see what happens. I think if I keep working hard, I can put myself in a good position to be there. I want to be there fast, but we will see.
Yung Chi Chen (Mariners), INF
What's it like to play in the World Baseball Classic and the Futures Game in the same year?
It's very good for me. The World Baseball Classic was a big tournament. This is a big game. To be here is good for me (laughs). I am very proud to have the Taiwan flag on my jersey today.
This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.