How I started moving around the field
People have asked about playing lots of positions. I owe a lot of that to Rafael Furcal. When I was with the Braves, I was in Triple-A and Walt Weiss was the shortstop, and I felt I was going to be the next shortstop of the Atlanta Braves, and life was going to be great. We went to big league camp, and I heard there was a kid from A-ball coming to big league camp who stole 100 bases, and was supposed to be the next greatest thing. I showed up and it was Rafael Furcal, and I knew my days as the Atlanta shortstop were numbered.
The Braves thought enough of me to say, "Hey, you're going to have to start moving around if you want to make this ballclub." I went down to Triple-A for at least a year and played second and third and short and left and right, and got used to it, and didn't overanalyze it too much. I didn't want to be perfect at every position. I think that's asking too much. At the end of the day, I'd say, "Just get it done."
Fundamental-wise, I know how to play the game. I know common-sense, just what to do. I think sometimes people lose sight of how it's not just run out there and catch fly balls. When you put 40,000 people in the seats, it's a lot more difficult than it looks. From that aspect, to go from the infield to the outfield, for me, is a test because I feel more removed from the game. I'm a guy who enjoys playing up the middle, I enjoy seeing what pitches are going to be thrown, how guys are going to be attacked, and being able to position myself accordingly. In the outfield, I sometimes get caught up with what people are saying in the stands behind me. I get a kick out of some of the comments I hear and get to interact with the fans more. I definitely prefer the infield to the outfield.
I only have two gloves. I was a guy who used a bunch early on, and felt I had to use a bigger glove at third, and use the same glove up the middle at short and second, and a different glove in the outfield, and a first baseman's glove. I don't do it anymore. I'm comfortable using my infield glove all around, and in an emergency, if I'm going to first, I get Derrek to give me his glove and get by with that, and one outfield glove.
It's more of a comfort level. You start putting too many gloves on your hand, you start getting a false sense of security, and you lose sight of moving your feet, and getting in position to make plays. It's worked for me.
Thanks for all the suggestions for a blog title. I haven't been able to pick one yet. Keep 'em coming.
The Braves thought enough of me to say, "Hey, you're going to have to start moving around if you want to make this ballclub." I went down to Triple-A for at least a year and played second and third and short and left and right, and got used to it, and didn't overanalyze it too much. I didn't want to be perfect at every position. I think that's asking too much. At the end of the day, I'd say, "Just get it done."Fundamental-wise, I know how to play the game. I know common-sense, just what to do. I think sometimes people lose sight of how it's not just run out there and catch fly balls. When you put 40,000 people in the seats, it's a lot more difficult than it looks. From that aspect, to go from the infield to the outfield, for me, is a test because I feel more removed from the game. I'm a guy who enjoys playing up the middle, I enjoy seeing what pitches are going to be thrown, how guys are going to be attacked, and being able to position myself accordingly. In the outfield, I sometimes get caught up with what people are saying in the stands behind me. I get a kick out of some of the comments I hear and get to interact with the fans more. I definitely prefer the infield to the outfield.
I only have two gloves. I was a guy who used a bunch early on, and felt I had to use a bigger glove at third, and use the same glove up the middle at short and second, and a different glove in the outfield, and a first baseman's glove. I don't do it anymore. I'm comfortable using my infield glove all around, and in an emergency, if I'm going to first, I get Derrek to give me his glove and get by with that, and one outfield glove.
It's more of a comfort level. You start putting too many gloves on your hand, you start getting a false sense of security, and you lose sight of moving your feet, and getting in position to make plays. It's worked for me.
Thanks for all the suggestions for a blog title. I haven't been able to pick one yet. Keep 'em coming.
Hey Mark,
Born as a Cub Fan and my first word being Grace (after the former first baseman) i just wanted to let you and the rest of the guys know that every oppurtunity i get to watch you guys on tv down here in Camp Lejeune, NC my face is glued to the tv. I really appreciate the enthusiasm and tenacity you guys show on the field as every game i watch makes me feel as if i were right there at home in good ol' Chicago. Keep up the good work. Go Cubs.
"Never Give Up."
Cpl. Joe Beverly
United States Marine Corps
2D LAR BN
Camp Lejeune, NC
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It's such a wonderful thing to have a guy as talented and versatile as you playing for the Cubs. This team has improved so much over the course of the past two years, and it's largely due to players such as yourself who get it done day in and day out- no matter the position. It's been so much fun to watch, and this should be a fun summer. Here's hoping you won't have to borrow Derrek's glove too often. ;]
Thanks for being such a faithful blogger, Mark! Keep up the great work on the field!
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First, just a tip of the hat to Joe Beverly. Thanks for everything that you're doing for our country. It's appreciated and you have my utmost respect.
Mark, great blog. I can't imagine what this club would do without you. If you ask me, Mark DeRosa is this club's MVP.
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Mark,
Thanks so much for the blog...I love that I'm watching you in one room and commenting on your blog in another!
Obviously you're an invaluable player with your talent and diversity! You are the kind of player the Cubs need more of...selfless. I appreciate your effort on a daily basis, I know that if you could, you would take us to the Championship on your own. I value that.
Keep up the great playing and blogging!
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How about the Gospel According to Mark. Appreciate you big guy love the hustle love the attitude. Im a 3rd generation Cubs fan don't let the fanaticism of some overshadow your effort we're just pulling for you real hard.
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Hi Mark,
Just wanted to say that I think you are an amazing athlete! My little brother thinks the world of you, he is 8.. i am 22... anyways he just met and worked with Ryan Theriot and Rich Hill at a camp a couple weeks ago, and was starstruck, but he really looks up to you, he loves that you know how to play so many positions and wants to be just like you! He plays for a U9 traveling team in Oak Brook. I want to personally thank you for being the inspiration to him, he tries so hard and eats, lives, breathes baseball because of amazing athletes and people like you! A true inspiration!
Thank you again,
Lauren
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Hey Mark.. Tough loss tonight. Keep up the good work man!
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Hi Mark,
My family and I love to watch you & the cubs play. I think you are a fantastic example for my 6-year old because you hustle no matter what position you are in, etc.
As for your blog name, what about Around the Horn with Mark or Around the Horn with DeRosa.
Go Cubbies!
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Hey Mark,
I am so glad that you are such a big part of this team. I will never understand why players like you are overlooked for the superstars. To me someone as versatile as you are is more of a superstar than someone that can only play 1 position.
In closing thank you for being the person that you are and such a huge important part of the Cubs.
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Wow, who'd have guessed that Matt Damon has it in for you so badly. I'd say there's always Ben Affleck, but honestly, I figure taking abuse from Damon is probably better than being friends with Affleck in the first place.Incidentally, it's nice to see you starting to break out of the slump. Have you closed up your stance? It kinda looks that way.It's kind of amusing that Derrek lets you borrow his glove from time to time. Just don't ask to borrow his jock; I hear he gets a bit territorial about that.Okay, maybe you could call this blog Mark DeRosa's Traveling Funhaus and Amateur Dentistry. Or substitute "Sandwich Shoppe" for Amateur Dentistry, but I rather like the idea of you accosting unwitting fans at conventions with a rusty drill. Or maybe you could think of your own idea instead of pestering us about it all the time, Mr. I Play Everywhere. Whatever you do, hang tough, play hard, and work that count!Link WinterSouth Bend, IN
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Mark,
Keep up with the multiple positions, it is helping my fantasy baseball team a lot this year.
I never thought that ballplayers listened to the conversations and comments from the crowd. You are living proof, good to know.
http://homerfoodandhistory.mlblogs.com/
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DeRo!!!--
Hey, i just wanted to say i was at the game tonight...i toughed out the rain just to watch you guys...im 21 but i was born a cubs fan. Ive been watching since i was little but just in the last year or so i got really interested in this team. Everytime u guys play im glued to the tv or the radio, whichevers closer...but i love watching u guys bring it to the field and play each and every day. Keep up the good work and i look foreward to seeing you guys more this summer! As for watching you personally, i love it and i think that you are a very important asset to this team so keep it up and GO CUBBIES GO!!!
All my love, Sarah
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Mark,
1st, screw you Damon. 2nd, you should have Lou let you play all 9 positions sometime this year. I am sure that you could, some how, get at least one perfect inning pitching. Also, I am happy that the Cubs didn't make the trade for Roberts because you would have probably been a spot player, which would be completely unjustified. Anyway, keep doing what you do and don't let punks like Damon get under your skin. True Cubs fans are behind you 100%
Aaron
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Hey, DeRo! you're my HeRo!!!!
I think that you're an amazing second baseman/third baseman/ outfielder. keep up the good work!
By the way, amazing catch yesterday at third. I watched it over and over and over...
I love that you're making this blog; i read it every time you update it. It's really cool to be able to see your own thoughts on what's going on.
By the way, is it true that you know Michael Johns? he was my favorite on American Idol. I was SO upset when he got voted off. I voted for him, though. He's my favorite australian.
I'll see you play in August! Good luck with your season!
-Kate
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DeRo,
Wow nice stop Monday night! They can't teach that in Spring Training. I think your the heart of the team. Keep up the great work. How about "DeRo's on 2nd by Mark DeRosa" for your blog name.
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Hi Mark,
I never knew this blog existed, but I'm glad I found it. It's nice to get your perspective on everything that happens on the field. That's something you definitely can't get from TV! You've got a lot of heart and it shows...keep up the good work! You've been a fantastic addition to the Cubs and you're one of my favorites. I can't wait to come to my first game of the season (memorial day - yay! It's almost here!).
Here are some blog name ideas:
Dishing with DeRosa
Chi-town Low-Down
Wrigley Reporter
Wrigley Roundup
Infield Insider
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Can I just start by saying you are one of the best looking guys I have ever laid eyes on (yes, I am a female). I love watching you play! One of the best utility players out there. It's so thrilling to watch the Cubs this year. Keep up the excellent work. I hope someday to be able to meet you and perhaps get a picture or autograph. I just discovered your blog and am already committed to checking in everyday to see if something new is up. I love getting a little peek inside the thoughts of a player. Good luck for the rest of the season and whatever you do, stay healthy...we need ya!
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Mark,
As a Cub fan from the age of four (ok, that wasn't yesterday), I can only say that you show the skills of a CEO, or, darn it, a woman in your ability to play so many positions at one time. I was a catcher as a young woman. I played baseball and football because of my height. You impress me so much for your relaxed approach to the game we all love so much. And, that bat has worked well for you lately. I still find you to be the best U man I've seen in many years. Keep up your spirit and the great work!
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Mark,
When I was in little league, our coach always taught us two things. First was that if you know the fundamentals of the game, you will always play, second was that if you can play more than one position, you will always play. It is nice to see my coach was right........
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Mark,
Thanks for all the effort you put into every game! You are such a great player as well as one fo the most talented!
You are my favorite Cub and I hope to see you in Chicago for many years to come!
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Mark,
Just wanted to say I'm a die hard Cubs fan, live in wrigleyville and have been a big fan of yours ever since you joined the team. Honestly this is the first time I've read your blog but I noticed you didn't have a name yet so I was thinking maybe something like "(The) Mark of a good Pennman"...kind of cheesey but it plays off of your college a little...keep up the good work...
Jason
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I think you should call it "The Goat Killers Corner".
Or you could use a knock off of ESPN's "Around The Horn", and call it. "Around The Ivy with Mark DeRosa".
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Mark,
My son and I are big cubs fans and we live just north of Atlanta, in Chattanooga, TN, so we have had the chance to keep tabs on you for some time. You are a class-act and a huge reason for the Cubs success the last couple of years. As a father, it is nice for my son, who loves baseball, to see prople like you who do things the right way. Thank you.
B. McKenzie
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Go DeRo! Thanks, first and foremost, for your all-out effort on the field. Your smart approach to the game and versatility has been a HUGE part of the Cubs success over this season and last.
But thanks, too, for this blog -- it's a real treat to be able to get an insider's perspective on what's going on with the team. And, if I may say so, you've always impressed me with your thoughtful, intelligent comments to the press.
Oh, and as far as a blog name, how 'bout "DeRo's Deliberations". Too high brow? Anyway, good luck tonight against Peavy and for the rest of the season. Go Cubs!
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Hey Mark,
I am sure I am coming into this a little late, but an idea for your Blog.... DeRosa Dishes? (Do I get to meet you if you choose this?)
Thanks for being the player that you are for our beloved Cubbies, I too am from NJ, grew up there until I was 15, but while the rest of my wonderfully Italian family was rooting for the Yankees, for some reason I have always been a Cubbies fan. Now it is even better since you have joined the team. It seems like the comaraderie that this team exhibits is what makes you guys play hard every game....because you have each others backs. Keep up the great work. You set a great example for sports in general, thank you.
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m-m-m-m-m-m-m-my DEROSA!! Takin from the hit 80's song "My Sharona". I thought of this when you joined the team, I want my credit! hahaha
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Hey Mark , Lifelong cubs fan here i grew up watching cubs with my dad.My wife is a braves and you was one of her fav players now that your a cub your one of my fav.I mess with her too when you make a great play i always rub it in.How about Next Year is here with Derosa.
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Mark -- it is wonderful having you on the team. You may be the single most versatile player I have ever seen. You're a gamer! It's nice to see someone with such high baseball intelligence out there on a regular basis. Have you thought of naming your blog "The BlogRosa Files"? Just a suggestion.
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A couple more suggestions In the bleachers with derosa or The Friendly Blog Confines with Derosa
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What about "The Utility Closet" for the blog title.
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Mark,
Thanks so much for all you do. You are a remarkable player, one of the most important and valuable players on the team, because you can play so many positions.
This is the first time I have read your blog, and I appreciate you doing this, because-from a fan's perspective- we get to know a little bit more than what the media tells us. Thanks so much.
Just as a side note, my lucky number (and soccer number) is 7, so I've always had a soft spot for all #7s on the Cubs because through every sport I've played I was number 7. I especially thought that we were going to win in "07," just because it was my lucky number. Good luck and Go Cubs Go.
Maura L. (a South Side diehard Cubs fan).
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Hey Mark,
here's a suggestion for your blog title may work may not,
"Word from the Grinder with Mark DeRosa."
"Never Give Up."
Cpl. Joe Beverly
United States Marine Corps
2D Lar Bn
Camp Lejeune, NC
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I looked at the other posts.... What is the deal with Matt Damon. Did he say something about DeRosa?? I think I missed something, can someone clue me in?
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I just discovered your blog (don't know how I've missed it), and I'll now be a regular reader.
I just had a conversation with my husband (also named Mark) this past weekend after attending the game on Mother's Day and reading the article on cubs.com about the pink bats used that day. I commented what a great interview you must be, and that you always come across as very quotable. As a mom whose 10-year-old son has been greatly influenced in his playing and game-watching by my passion for the Cubs and the game of baseball in general, I loved that you said, "I don't think people realize sometimes how influential mothers can be in guiding their sons to be big league ballplayers."
I'm not a fan of the color pink in the least, but also having been touched by cancer (my 23-year-old daughter is currently battling lymphoma), it was great to see so many players taking part in the promotion that day.
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Hey Mark,
How cool is this - to read a blog from an active Cubs player during the season! Very cool indeed. Thanks for sharing some of the inside stuff of how you adapt to so many positions making it look effortless. Of course it isn't or all players would do it. Keep up the postings - lots of fun to read.
I have a fan site & blog at www.CubHub.net and just signed up for an MLB Blog at http://cubhubnet.mlblogs.com - check them out and let me know what you think! GO CUBS
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Mark,
Thanks for taking the time to blog for the fans. Here are some title suggestions:
Mark My Words
Clearly Marked
Derosa's Denizens
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I thought of some more names:
1) DeRosa's Full Coverage
or
2) Full Coverage with Mark DeRosa
(since you cover pretty much every position)
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How about "Covering De Bases" for a blog title? ;)
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Mark DeRosa......you are a valuable asset to the team. Keep your head high. We'll get there! How about DeRosa DeLivers?
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well considering i just now found out there was a blog, id have to say that immediately the name that popped into my, often times, moronic head was "marky mark and the funky blog". i mean honestly, you cant really top that. regardless, today is probably gonna be better for me than you cause in about 2 hours or so youre gonna have to try and figure out jake peavy, and as a former little league allstar i think we can both agree that we understand how difficult it is to hit cy young winners(i was signed as a 9 year by the a's but decided i didnt wanna live in oakland of course). anyhoo, get us a sweep when you come out here(arizona, so i can really talk crap to my bartender) and hopefully ill see you guys out after the games.
dane
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I'll be checking the blog every day. I'm so pumped to be able to read an active player blog. For blog titles, how about:
The Power of Glove - w/ M. DeRosa
Cooler than Sosa, DeRosa (sounded better before I typed it)
Every Day Spark with Mark
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Hi Mark!
You should be very proud of your major league accomplishments. All true Cub fans know what you mean to our team.Keep up the great work!
An idea for your blog page: Diamond Talk with Mark DeRosa.
GO CUBBIES!!!
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HEY MARK,
I MET YOUR BROTHER AT THE ATLANTA AIRPORT ABOUT 2-4 MONTHS AGO. HE WAS WEARING THE HOME HAT WHEN I COMMENTED ON HOW I ILKED IT. HE THEN RESPONDED THAT HE WAS YOUR BROTHER....VERY PERSONABLE YOUNG MAN....AND QUITE THE STRIKING RESEMBLANCE TO YOU.
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Hey Mark,
I think that's pretty cool how you've had to diversify your defensive skillset to make an impact for the team. A lot of players probably wouldn't do that. In a way it's probably a lot easier to devote yourself to one position, but being a "utility man" definitely has its place on the team as well. You never know when someone will get hurt or when you need to switch around positions to help mix up the order in a double switch or something. You seem to do quite well all around, and you've been given plenty of opportunities so far this season to get a look all around the field, so keep up the good work!
As a side note, I find it interesting that many of the comments are more based on "We love you Mark!" and "Wow, it was great seeing you at the game the other day!" than about what you've actually posted about. I will admit though that it's cool that your blog gives us the outlet to do that and to show our appreciation for what you guys do day in and day out. That and we know you will actually read all of these comments, which is pretty great too. So thanks!
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I think you should call you blog either:
From Inside the Friendly Confines
In A League of Our Own
Beyond the Ivy
Chasing the Championship
Reversing the Curse
"The Year" is Here
Keep up the good work, Mark!!
Thanks!
-Maria
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You not only play multiple positions, but you play them well. I live in Texas and saw you play live many times in 2006 with the Rangers. I told myself that entire season that I would love to see you with the Cubs. My wish came true. It came true twice. I wished Soriano would come to the Cubs when he played for the Rangers too. I cannot wait to see the you and the rest of the Cubs live playing the Rangers this October.
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Hey Mark,
Just wanted to say that this blog is great and I know the Cubs are going all the way this year. Have been a fan since '69, when I was 8 and want the team to win so badly, especially for Ron Santo (my favorite player). I love the way you play the game- being so versatile at so many positions and also taking the time to have this blog and hear what the fans have to say. How bout Around the Diamond with DeRosa for the blog title- since you can play all around the diamond. Keep up the great job and GO CUBS.
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Hey Chicago..
Blue Bloggin..
Inside The Ivy..
West Addison to Waveland..
West Addison to Sheffield..
Live from West Addison..
Cubbie Up..
*Mark of the Cubs*
*W*
Edmonds' Dream Come True..(smack him on the back of the head as soon as he gets there to let him know he's not dreaming)
Just a few thoughts, Keep diggin in.
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Hey Mark,
Keep up the great play this year. You are a valuable asset to this team.
It's great to have a team that is that in every sense of the word and a group of guys that go out there and give it thier all every day.
Keep the blog coming.
Go Cubbies!
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I enjoy watching you play - great to see you in the lineup on a regular basis. - how about a name for your blog?
The Handy Man Can!
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Well, jeez. Go ahead and add "sports show call-in star" and, I guess, "blogger" to the versatility list, Mark. As someone who values both good baseball and proper grammar, I gotta say, you're ace.
Now, down to business. Can you hit a homerun for me today? I stubbed my toe and it would make me feel better. Thanks.
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Hi Mark...greetings from Whiting, Indiana! We love you guys out here... Just wanted to let you know that YOU are doing an awesome job covering all the bases both on the field and in this blog, and we fans love it. Keep up the good work, keep your spirits up cuz you guys are keeping our spirits up...this year is IT!
Can't wait to meet you at Cheap Seats in Whiting next month for your autograph session...in the meantime, continue rolling forward with the entire team cuz this IS the year. BTW, how about the blog name THE CENTURY MARK to rep. the 100 years since the Big Win??
Cheers! Cubbiegirl
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Hey Mark..
Just wanted to say Hi.. I was at last night's game (wed 14th) and I gotta say.. I was very proud to wear your jersey. You did amazing!!! I was exstatic because not only did you do great, the entire team did! Last night's game was my third game so far of the season, but hopin to get to more.. well keep up the good work and stay hott lookin!!
Love ya!!!!
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Hi Mark,
I know you can't second guess Lou, but I'm somewhat concerned abour our lack of squeeze bunting. We have had several opportunities, especially with Pie, but we always swing away. And when is the last time you even saw a drag bunt? Last year we were playing the White Sox and I had just told my friend that if Lou would ever squeeze it would turn the season around. I forget the players now, but we squeezed in a run against the Sox and the season went very well after that point.
Dave in Louisiana
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Just saw the line-up for today's game (the 15th) and you aren't in it. I know everyone needs a day off now and then, but it's just never the same when you are in the line-up. Oh, well. Good luck today and I can't wait until the 19th in Houston when I will get to go 2 of the games. I will have my DeRosa jersey on.
Rebel
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So its my first time on this blog, and the first picture I see is you in a Braves uniform!!! Also, I wanted all Cub Fans and you to be sure to check up on our friends to the north, they have a web site (peeinyourpantsforthebrewers) they are always slamming cub fans and players.
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I totally think you should call you blog "Playing the Cycle" because you play like every position!
-Maria
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Thanks for the backstory, Mark. I just assumed you were born with the ability to excel at every position. I prefer you at 2nd but I know we're in good hands wherever they put you!
Keep up the good work (on the field and on the blog)!
Go Cubs Go!
Jen
http://cubblogging.blogspot.com/
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Mark... I think you an amazing asset the Cubs, and this season is so exciting! I am from Cincinnati, and of course you didn't play in the game I attended!! I will be at Wrigley on July 8th, and I can't wait to get back to the Friendly Confines. Blog name ideas...
Inside the Ivy
or
DeRosa's (or DeRo's) Friendly Confines
Keep up the great work!! GO CUBBIES!
Anna Marie
Cincinnati, OH
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Mark,
I've been following your career since you played in Richmond, Virginia. I lived in Richmond from 1998 through 2006. My wife and I moved to Chicago just before you signed with the Cubs. Now I'm a Cub fan too! I remember watching you at the Diamond in Richmond and thinking to myself, "damn, this guy hardly ever has a bad at bat." Even your strike outs were productive because you wore down the pitchers. Anyway, I just wanted to congratulate you on your success these last few years. I always knew you just needed a chance to play consistently. By the way, is Rudy Jarmello (I know I butchered the last name) as good a coach as they all say? He seems to have helped a lot of players down there in Arlington. I don't know if you ever have time to respond to these post, but if you do I'd love to hear your thoughts on the old days at Richmond. Have a great rest of the season, Mark.
Bob Maziarz
bobmaziarz@hotmail.com
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Hey Mark, how about
"On the Mark with Mark DeRosa"
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I just want to say that you guys as a team are incredible. You guys never give up, it shows how much you guys truly care about this ballclub. Keep up the good work and remember to take it a game a time and never forget to have "fun" out there. I'm also very excited to see you guys this weekend against the Pirates. I finally get to see the famous Wrigley Field Stadium. GO CUBS!!!
-April
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Hi Mark,
Missed you out at the friendly confines today. So I had a question and an idea for a blog, I guess. We cub fans are some grudge holding folks - Cardinals, White Sox, and Brewers for example. What about the players? I read Zambrano's comments on Edmonds becoming a cub. The fans where a bit fickle today booing his first strikes, cheering his first hit right after, then booing his strikes at his other at bats. Personally, I guess, with his history, I feel he needs to earn my cheers. But what about you guys the players. Do you guys hold rivalries - personal and/or club rivalries? Are there teams you really want to, UMPH!, give it to them more than others? Just curious. Stay safe Mark. Remember, YOU ROCK!!!! :)
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Mark,
I was on the Cubs' site, clicking around and found myself reading your blog without realizing they're your words. I'd like to start off by letting you know you're my favorite Cub. You're favored by my fiance as well, even though she hates the Cubs. Braves fan. I'm personally so proud of this team right now, win or lose. I have good expectations too. I'm startin to think that perhaps the stars will finally align for us.
-James
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Mark: I've been a cub fan for over 20 years. I started watching cubs baseball when I moved to chicago in 1987. I now live in a small town in Indiana, and every sense I haven't stopped watching Cubs baseball. It's crazy. But there is just something about being a cub fan that feels different then being a fan of another sport. I really injoy watching certain players, and the way the approach the game. You seem to me to the one that catches my attention the most. You seem to be the type of player that says. Coach I'll play any spot you need me too and bat anywhere in the line up want. Now that I've seen you play. I'm almost convinsed you could be a regular starter at all those positions. To me you just seem to injoy playing the game of baseball the way it was meant to be played. and you will help in any way you can to help the team WIN. So to me MLB needs to make a spot on the all star team for players like you. A true ALL star. A player who can play ALL those positions and play them well. Plus bat 280. Thanks for being a CUB.
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You are my favorite player! I love watching you and the Cubbies play! Thanks so much for blogging too! Here are a few ideas for the name of your blog.
"Mark - My Words"
"Around the Dish with DeRosa"
"In the Dugout with DeRo"
Go Cubs Go!!!
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Awesome double. Beautiful catch. Great Homerun! You are ROCKING today!!!! 5/16 Keep up the great work.
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GO CUBS LETS GO ALL THE WAY GO CUBS
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK
GO CUBS
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Mark,
It is do cool to know that there is a major league player that goes through what I do on a day to day basis. As part of my training when I was young I was taught to learn every position so that when I got older and a high school coach decided to move me I was prepared. Unfortunately when you do this you are always the one overlooked. When you are the jack of all trades you are the expert of none of them and there will always be someone better who got to perfect that one position. Even throughout my college career I pitched batting practice, played shortstop, third, first, outfield, and i caught. Although I wouldn't have changed a thing, it takes an extremely humble person to be able to maintain the knowlege to be able to play that many positions. Thank you for being an inspiration and kudos on all the tough work!
-Nikki, Benedictine University Softball
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Hey Mark, I wanted you to know that you are a great influence on my son. He is 13 and I coach his baseball team (the Cubs). He started watching you play last year, and you have been one of his favorite players. He used to only want to pitch. Now he wants to play everywhere, he wants to be the DeRosa of his team. He will play outfield, infield, catcher, and pitch. But he doesn't just play it to play it. He is working extra to learn each spot better. I think you are a great influence on kids today. There is a need for a positive role model in baseball. Thank you.
Phil
http://tanksters.blogspot.com/
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Mark,
I was at the game and the signing at sports authority yesterday and I just wanted to thank you for signing my baseball and taking a picture with me. I really love to watch you play. You are such a versatile player and that is amazing to see. Keep it up, and thanks once again.
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Hey, Mark...
I am a big Cub fan but my interest isn't just in the current club but also back into the club history. I can't help but see a lot of similarities between your versitile play with that of Arthur "Circus Solly" Hofman who played with the Cubs a century ago. Hofman played infield and outfield and seemed quite successful and focused no matter where he was assigned. It's always good to have a guy with that kind've talent on a club.
Keep up the good work!
Jason "Gypsy" Kladiva
host, "Vintage Base Ball This Week"
www.1859america.com
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Hey, Mark
I am a big Cubs fan and I play baseball for my high school in evanston illinois (Evanston Township High School). I find that the more that I watch the cubs more knowledgeable I get. I really think you are a great player and real fun to watch on WGN and I just wanted to thank you for all you do.
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Hey Mark,
I think playing lots of positions is inspiring! You have inspired me to play lots of positions playing baseball. I am a really young baseball player in my little leagues and I have learned from watching you play lots of positions how to play all of them. I now play all positions from your great teachings and I thank you so very much for being a role model for me in the field and batting. I also enjoy watching you play. I owe it all to you. GO CUBS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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