Quotes

“Some of those up and down players have a lot of bitterness, but it was nothing but positive energy every day from him.”

Jim Skaalen, Milwaukee Brewers hitting coach

“He was one of the first guys I played with that was a real veteran hitter. He knew a lot about the game. His and my style were very similar -– we’re both analytical. We spent hours talking about the game and at-bats and situations. I very much enjoyed my time playing with him. I learned a lot from him. It’s a shame because he probably would’ve had a great career in coaching.”

Chris Burke, Houston Astros

“He'd do anything to make the club. He's a guy who if you asked to catch, he'd say yes. A lifer, basically. He just wanted to stay in the game because he had that personality.”

Joe Torre, New York Yankees manager

“He was a great teammate. A good guy. I just remember he always had his kids around. He always took time to hang out with his family and play with his kids. He was an all-around good guy.”

Luke Scott, Houston Astros