Wrigley sits atop the top-five walk up music list
PORT CHARLOTTE--A player's walk up song defines who they are as a player (in their own mind anyway). Over the last five years, players have requested music anywhere from Top 40 to television theme songs, some of which bordering on the absolute ridiculous. But a walk up song isn't just about the player, fans get involved too. In our first edition of "Top-Five", we asked you fans to provide us with some of your favorite walk up songs from the past and thank you for your great suggestions. Here are your "Top-Five Walk Up Songs":
1. Henry Wrigley (2010)-"Party in the USA" by Miley Cyrus
One would think that a 6-foot-2, 180 pound first baseman would pick something a bit harder than Miley Cyrus, but it worked for Henry Wrigley. The former Stone Crab hit .292 with 12 home runs and 46 RBIs that season, including a franchise record 5-for-5 performance on May 20th against the Brevard County Manatees. But more importantly, Wrigley's song resonated with fans because it encompassed two loves that every baseball fan has, home runs and America.
2. Steven Vogt (2010)-"Dynamite" by Taio Cruz
To say "Vogty" was "Dynamite" in 2010 doesn't give enough credit to the man who led the entire Tampa Bay Rays organization and the Florida State League in hitting with a .345 average on the year. This song sent Charlotte Sports Park into a frenzy with the chants of "Vogt! Vogt! Vogt!", as an improvised lyric. Vogt's winning and good-natured personality endeared himself to each and every fan that walked through the gates that season, and will not only be remembered for his dynamite year at the plate, but also his dynamite personality.
3. Ryan Royster (2009)-"Here Comes the Rooster" by Alice in Chains
How could anyone forget the 6-foot-2 outfielder that kept the team loose on their way to the 2009 FSL South Division Title? Sara Mitchell didn't, and not by his play on the field, by the music that was played as he walked into the on-deck circle, "This song always got the crowd involved when he was up to bat! It's also easy to remember and catchy!" Statistically, Royster struggled on the year, but every time that song played people would stand up and cheer for one of the most affable guys to don a Stone Crabs uniform.
4. Tyler Bortnick (2011)-"On the Hunt" by Lynyrd Skynard
It was a tough choice between the final two entries, but our favorite beer man Dave Cabott solidified Bortnick's place at number four, "I always remember that good old southern rock and stopped selling beer to see what Borty was gonna do!". Bortnick changed his walk up several times that year, but his presence in the lineup stayed constant as "Borty" played in 132 games, hit .306, and drove in 70 runs. Bortnick also led the Florida State League with 43 steals, breaking Isaias Velasquez's Stone Crabs record of 41 the previous year. Bortnick no doubt was on the hunt at the plate, in the field, and on the base paths in 2011.
5. Mark Thomas (2011)-"Circle of Life" by Elton John
The beauty of Minor League Baseball is that the young guys clearly aren't at the level of taking themselves too seriously, yet. This song was perfect for Thomas in 2011 as he circled the bases by way of the home run 13 times, and circled other Stone Crabs home 64 times. When Thomas came up to the plate that year, not even Mufasa and the hyenas could keep him from becoming the king.
Honorable Mentions submitted by you:
Bridget McCormick: Nevin Ashley (2009)-"Boondocks" by Little Big Town. "That song reminded me of home and he was a Hoosier himself!"
Taylor Williams: Henry Wrigley (2010)-"For the Love of Money" by The O'Jays (First walk up choice of the season). "It was great because it was both hilarious and ironic. It's definitely my favorite!"
Bob Craft: Phil Wunderlich (2012)-"Banana Phone" by Raffi. "I don't know if he lost a bet or something like that, but it was great."