AFL Journal: Rough week for Sanchez

Send Gaby an email

Hello again. This has been a tough week, for both me and the team. We've now lost six games in a row, and I haven't helped the cause. I've been making solid contact, but hitting it right at them.

Despite being in last place, our team is still playing pretty well. We're leading the league with a .334 team batting average. We are also leading in hits, runs and total bases, which is why it's crazy that we lost all of our games this past week.

Our field coordinator and director of player development have been in town to watch the Marlins prospects play. Having those guys around is exciting, but also nerve- racking. Of course you always want to produce, but when you know they are watching you in the stands, you want to give it all you've got to try and impress them even more.

After the long week, I took a trip to see the Grand Canyon with my parents and my girlfriend. I was truly impressed at the sight. It took seven hours both ways and we got up really early, but it was definitely worth it. I'm a pretty big guy, but next to the Grand Canyon, I felt tiny.

I'm hoping this week will be better and maybe we can finish the week at .500. I'm going to do my best to help get us some wins. I really appreciate all the emails you've sent -- I need all the support I can get, especially after a week like this last one.

Now, I want to answer some of your questions.

Gaby's Mailbag  /  Send Gaby an email

Have you worked with the Marlins' Minor League hitting coordinator John Mallee? What do you think of him as a hitting instructor? -- Jim

John Malee has helped me tremendously. I've been hitting with him for two years and I believe that he is one of the best, if not the best, hitting coaches in all of baseball. He has changed my swing and has made me a more complete hitter. His philosophies about hitting and his visual aids help me, along with everyone else in the Marlins organization. He's always willing to throw more batting practice and stay extra time if you are struggling and want to get some more hacks in. Thanks so much for your support and interest.

I saw you play third base and some outfield at Miami, but the Marlins originally drafted you as a catcher. Are you still doing any catching or has the organization moved you to another position? At what position do you see your future? -- Placido, Miami

I have received many emails asking this same question. I've played practically every position since I started playing baseball when I was 4 years old. In high school I was a shortstop, and in college I played third base. Since I was drafted, I have played third, first and I've also caught some games. I do not know where they will want me eventually, but I am willing to play whatever position as long as it gets me in the lineup. I am comfortable playing all three positions, so I just want to be able to play where they need me. Thanks for the question and hopefully you'll come to see us in Miami.