CAN "PADRE" KRATZ'S EMOTION SPARK THE YANKEES?

        Source: NJ.com

It is hard to find joy in the Yankees these days. The battles among the Rays, Mets and now the Orioles are leaving deep scars, once that may not be erased in time for the post season.  But one glimmer of hope lies in this feel good story of Erik Kratz and his contributions to this Yankee team.

"Ultimately for me, the things that I found satisfaction and incredible gratification in is being able to make connections with players in the minor leagues, in the big leagues, pitchers or position players, whatever it is,” said Kratz, who added that he would like to get into coaching some day. “And hopefully go on to see them have success," reported NJ.com.

Kratz has been deemed "Padre" by rookie sensation and former minor league, now major league teammate Deivi García who pitched his first major league game and win against the Mets a week ago. "Kratz and Garcia became close late last year when Garcia got promoted to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Kratz jokingly calls Garcia his son. Garcia calls Kratz “padre.”

Skipper Aaron Boone called Kratz's contributions immeasurable as he not only stepped in behind the plate but he stepped into a mentoring role, something this team needs. “He’s just a special person, special makeup,” Boone said. “He’s done a great job as a player for us between the lines, but what he’s brought behind the scenes and just the kind of person he is and the kind of impact he has. … it’s been really neat for me to see. He’s beloved in that room," reported NJ.com.

Am I frustrated with this Yankee team? Yes. Did Kratz's emotional interview after Garcia's first win get to me? Yes. In this moment when the Yankees are basically sinking instead of swimming on top of the AL East, a feel good story is something we all need. Here's hoping that this momentum helps turn things around for the Yankees otherwise, it is going to be a long hard winter.

--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Managing Editor
Twitter: @suzieprof