Rocky Gale Checks in from Australia

El Paso Chihuahuas' catcher Rocky Gale is spending his winter in the Australian Baseball League, a circuit that Major League Baseball and the Australian Baseball Federation started in 2010.

Gale is catching for the first place Adelaide Bite. We recently exchanged emails with Gale about his experience in Australia so far.

How did this opportunity in Australia come about?

Gale: I've always wanted to play winter ball. And who doesn't want to see Australia? It offers a great opportunity to work on some new things in competition.

Are you enjoying seeing a new continent?

Gale: I couldn't have picked a better city to play in. Adelaide is considered by most Australians to be a quaint country town. It includes gorgeous beaches, prestigious wineries, a historic downtown, a magical coffee scene and heartwarming people.

I've heard baseball is the fourth or fifth most popular sport in Australia. What are the fans like in Australia?

Gale: Yes, baseball's relevance in the Australian sport scene ranks much lower than we are used to. The Australian baseball fan is very passionate and supportive of the league. They are hungry for more baseball.

Do Australians comment on your American accent?

Gale: Upon hearing my American accent, Australians usually ask, "are you from Canada?" I've been told it is more offensive to assume a Canadian is American then the other way around. I think maybe my pale skin has something to do with it too.

Here is Gale's triple in a recent Australian Baseball League game: