StreetOfFire

After spring training I was relieved to know that I made a roster and was heading to Beloit, WI to play for the Snappers. Spring training is always a grind and it was tough to see some guys get cut. That is the part of the game that is the "business" and it is always in the back of your head that today could be your last day. Some friends of mine were released and I wish all of them the best of luck in whatever they choose to do in or out of baseball. I spent the 2011 season in Beloit and during the season I made a connection with a family who attended and volunteered at many of the games last season. [PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] When I found out I was heading to Beloit I contacted them because they had made me aware that they decided to host players for the upcoming season. I gladly accepted their generosity for opening their home to a player and I asked another teammate of mine (A.J. Achter) if he would like to move in their as well. The situation could not have been any better. My host parents (Jon and Erin) are two of the nicest people around. Housing is usually an issue when you start a season because finding the right apartment, getting a 6 month lease, and the price are difficult to do in the matter of 3 - 5 days after you arrive. Knowing I had a place to stay that had a bed and roof was more than enough but Jon and Erin went above and beyond. A.J. and I have our own bed, dresser, futon, HUGE TV, cable and internet. The situation got way better though because of 2 little ones, Carson and Mikaya (my host brother and sister). Carson is 4 years old and Mikaya is 6 years old. If you have ever wanted to re-live you childhood then spending one day with these two will help you do that. During the day when Carson is home we usually play video games, nerf basketball, or baseball outside with him. He is always bouncing off the walls and wanting to hangout or play which we love. Mikaya is almost the exact opposite, as she is very calm and sometimes I would say she is by far more mature than me. Mikaya and I practice piano, talk about school and play outside with Carson & A.J. too. She is such a sweet girl and a very exceptional student. The housing is good, parents are great and host brother/sister are even better. Housing in the minor leagues should not be this good, I feel blessed to have the opportunity to have met these great people and to be able to live with them. I have heard horror stories of some housing situations in the Minors and realize how lucky I am this season. P.S. If you readers would like me to write about something specific please let me know whether in the comments section or through a direct message. Follow me on twitter @StreetofFire Thanks for reading!!!! Download attachment: Ryan ORourke.jpg Click here to view the article

First off, I would like to give a thank you to Seth Stohs and the rest of the Twins Daily writers for giving me the opportunity to post here about my life as a Minor League player in the Twins organization. My name is Ryan O'Rourke. I was born, grew up and still live in Worcester, Massachusetts. I also attended Merrimack College which is about 45 minutes away from my hometown. I graduated Merrimack College and was fortunate enough to be selected by the Minnesota Twins in the 13th round which has been my biggest accomplishment to date. I would describe my travels through the minors so far as being adventurous. I have met some great players, coaches, staff etc. and I have no complaints so far with anything. When Seth asked me to write my first post I was at a bit of a stand still on what should be my first topic. Do I talk about myself before the Twins (that may be a little boring for you readers), some of the best places I have played, or do I keep the timeline accurate and speak on my off-season? After some deliberation with some fellow teammates, I decided to talk a little about the life of a minor leaguer in the off-season months. [PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] But first, a little about me. I attended Merrimack College located in North Andover, Massechusetts, which is more known for the hockey than the baseball. I played 3 years of baseball and was a finalist for the Tino Martinez Award (MVP for Division 2) and I won a Gold Glove in my last season. From there, I left with a degree in Finance and Philosophy. I had a job lined up at a firm near Boston after the academic year, but the Twins called my name and I was more than happy to trade that job in for baseball. In the past two offseasons, I have decided to put my degree to use and work in the finance field. This offseason proved to be easier than the last in attaining employment. When I returned home in September, I had a few interviews already lined up with companies in Massachusetts. After going on the first two interviews, both places had offered me a 6 month position, but I still had other places to visit. I took a risk and declined those offers because the last interview was at the company I wanted. I guess I did well enough because I was offered the position and have been working here since September. The days are long and hard especially when I am trying to train for the upcoming season. A normal day consists of getting to work by 8:30 and staying there until 5. Once 5 comes, I am out the door and driving to the gym to lift, throw or run depending on the specific day. That will usually take me to around 8 and from there I am on my way home for dinner. After dinner, it is around 9 p.m. and time for bed. I know, this isn't the most exciting life, but I like it because of the simplicity. Other than training at the workout facility, I have also taken up heated yoga. Yes... Me, a 23 year old, 6'3' non-flexible baseball player does heated yoga. I have to say that I have noticed a difference after doing it for 6 months. Not only am I a little more flexible, I also feel like I can concentrate and focus a little better. The only tough part about yoga is that I am the "worst" student in the class. By worst, I mean that there are some positions I cannot do so I have to struggle to look less awkward. Being competitive, it is tough for me to look around and see 50 year old women giggling at me because of my inability to do basic poses. Well folks, that is my off-season in a nutshell. Work 45 hours a week, lift/run/throw about 25 hours a week and the rest gets put to sleep, fantasy football or an occasional night out with friends. I am excited for my second go at Spring Training which is less than a week from now. I hope that some of you leave some comments or send me a message about what you would like to hear, read etc. Also you can follow me on Twitter @StreetOfFire https://twitter.com/#!/StreetOfFire or my own personal blog http://www.thedailys...d.blogspot.com/ Signing off....Ryan O'Rourke Download attachment: ORourke.jpg photo by JimCrikket Click here to view the article

The first week here (in Ft. Myers) has been a wild ride. From the plane ride, where I had the pleasure of meeting and talking to John Cena, WWE Wrestler, to having our first game today. The check-in day is always fun as you get to see your teammates and get to meet some of the new guys or players you haven't played with before. That day usually goes smooth and then the season starts the next day. As A.J. Pettersen pointed out in one of his posts, that day includes a lot of lines and being poked and prodded. Download attachment: ORourke2.jpg After being given a clean bill of health we are able to hit the field and get some running tests done. Having long legs usually helps with these, and it is fun to see some guys putting up some good times. After the running day, the real practice starts the next day, and we get into groups and participate in drills. It is funny to think that we are doing the same drills as every other player in the world. Baseball is a game rich in tradition and has a very strong foundation. The Twins pride themselves on fundamentals and playing the game the right way. There is no better way to learn both of those than repetition after repetition. [PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] The practices are great and for a Massachusetts kid like myself playing in the Florida sun in March is something I never imagined, especially when it snowed about 10 inches on March 1st. That is something that many of the coaches say that sometimes gets lost because we hear it so much, but it is true. I am grateful everyday to throw on the jersey and some spikes and play the game. After a few days of throwing live batting practice to the hitters and scrimmaging against ourselves, we finally got to face a different jersey. The Red Sox came into town (even though they are also located in Ft. Myers) and my group played against them. This was the first time since September that I have played against another team. Genetically, I believe there is something ingrained in our code that brings out the competitive spirit. There is just something different about playing another team, guys you do not know personally, guys who are trying to hit the ball as hard as they can at you. The game went well and my team played great. Everyone was pulling for one another which is another cool thing about the game of baseball. Although it is a team sport much of the game relies on individuals doing their job to help the team. Although a guy may not have had a hit (individual fail), he may have made three great plays in the field that may have saved a run or two. That is when the team aspect kicks in and it was real cool to see that today in our first game of the year. Spring Training has just started, but it is rolling along and the real season is right around the corner. Jobs are out there and it is going to be a grind to secure a spot on any team. For now the hotel dinner is calling.... Signing off, Ryan O'Rourke Click here to view the article

After spring training I was relieved to know that I made a roster and was heading to Beloit, WI to play for the Snappers. Spring training is always a grind and it was tough to see some guys get cut. That is the part of the game that is the "business" and it is always in the back of your head that today could be your last day. Some friends of mine were released and I wish all of them the best of luck in whatever they choose to do in or out of baseball. I spent the 2011 season in Beloit and during the season I made a connection with a family who attended and volunteered at many of the games last season. When I found out I was heading to Beloit I contacted them because they had made me aware that they decided to host players for the upcoming season. I gladly accepted their generosity for opening their home to a player and I asked another teammate of mine (A.J. Achter) if he would like to move in their as well. The situation could not have been any better. My host parents (Jon and Erin) are two of the nicest people around. Housing is usually an issue when you start a season because finding the right apartment, getting a 6 month lease, and the price are difficult to do in the matter of 3 - 5 days after you arrive. Knowing I had a place to stay that had a bed and roof was more than enough but Jon and Erin went above and beyond. A.J. and I have our own bed, dresser, futon, HUGE TV, cable and internet. The situation got way better though because of 2 little ones, Carson and Mikaya (my host brother and sister). Carson is 4 years old and Mikaya is 6 years old. If you have ever wanted to re-live you childhood then spending one day with these two will help you do that. During the day when Carson is home we usually play video games, nerf basketball, or baseball outside with him. He is always bouncing off the walls and wanting to hangout or play which we love. Mikaya is almost the exact opposite, as she is very calm and sometimes I would say she is by far more mature than me. Mikaya and I practice piano, talk about school and play outside with Carson & A.J. too. She is such a sweet girl and a very exceptional student. The housing is good, parents are great and host brother/sister are even better. Housing in the minor leagues should not be this good, I feel blessed to have the opportunity to have met these great people and to be able to live with them. I have heard horror stories of some housing situations in the Minors and realize how lucky I am this season. P.S. If you readers would like me to write about something specific please let me know whether in the comments section or through a direct message. Follow me on twitter @StreetofFire Thanks for reading!!!! [ATTACH=CONFIG]812[/ATTACH]

After spring training I was relieved to know that I made a roster and was heading to Beloit, WI to play for the Snappers. Spring training is always a grind and it was tough to see some guys get cut. That is the part of the game that is the "business" and it is always in the back of your head that today could be your last day. Some friends of mine were released and I wish all of them the best of luck in whatever they choose to do in or out of baseball. I spent the 2011 season in Beloit and during the season I made a connection with a family who attended and volunteered at many of the games last season. When I found out I was heading to Beloit I contacted them because they had made me aware that they decided to host players for the upcoming season. I gladly accepted their generosity for opening their home to a player and I asked another teammate of mine (A.J. Achter) if he would like to move in their as well. The situation could not have been any better. My host parents (Jon and Erin) are two of the nicest people around. Housing is usually an issue when you start a season because finding the right apartment, getting a 6 month lease, and the price are difficult to do in the matter of 3 - 5 days after you arrive. Knowing I had a place to stay that had a bed and roof was more than enough but Jon and Erin went above and beyond. A.J. and I have our own bed, dresser, futon, HUGE TV, cable and internet. The situation got way better though because of 2 little ones, Carson and Mikaya (my host brother and sister). Carson is 4 years old and Mikaya is 6 years old. If you have ever wanted to relive you childhood then spending one day with these two will help you do that. During the day when Carson is home we usually play video games, nerf basketball, or baseball outside with him. He is always bouncing off the walls and wanting to hangout or play which we love. Mikaya is almost the exact opposite, as she is very calm and sometimes I would say she is by far more mature than me. Mikaya and I practice piano, talk about school and play outside with Carson & A.J. too. She is such a sweet girl and a very exceptional student. The housing is good, parents are great and host brother/sister are even better. Housing in the minor leagues should not be this good, I feel blessed to have the opportunity to have met these great people and to be able to live with them. I have heard horror stories of some housing situations in the Minors and realize how lucky I am this season. P.S. If you readers would like me to write about something specific please let me know whether in the comments section or through a direct message. Follow me on twitter @StreetofFire Thanks for reading!!!!

After spring training I was relieved to know that I made a roster and was heading to Beloit, WI to play for the Snappers. Spring training is always a grind and it was tough to see some guys get cut. That is the part of the game that is the "business" and it is always in the back of your head that today could be your last day. Some friends of mine were released and I wish all of them the best of luck in whatever they choose to do in or out of baseball. I spent the 2011 season in Beloit and during the season I made a connection with a family who attended and volunteered at many of the games last season. When I found out I was heading to Beloit I contacted them because they had made me aware that they decided to host players for the upcoming season. I gladly accepted their generosity for opening their home to a player and I asked another teammate of mine (A.J. Achter) if he would like to move in their as well. The situation could not have been any better. My host parents (Jon and Erin) are two of the nicest people around. Housing is usually an issue when you start a season because finding the right apartment, getting a 6 month lease, and the price are difficult to do in the matter of 3 - 5 days after you arrive. Knowing I had a place to stay that had a bed and roof was more than enough but Jon and Erin went above and beyond. A.J. and I have our own bed, dresser, futon, HUGE TV, cable and internet. The situation got way better though because of 2 little ones, Carson and Mikaya (my host brother and sister). Carson is 4 years old and Mikaya is 6 years old. If you have ever wanted to relive you childhood then spending one day with these two will help you do that. During the day when Carson is home we usually play video games, nerf basketball, or baseball outside with him. He is always bouncing off the walls and wanting to hangout or play which we love. Mikaya is almost the exact opposite, as she is very calm and sometimes I would say she is by far more mature than me. Mikaya and I practice piano, talk about school and play outside with Carson & A.J. too. She is such a sweet girl and a very exceptional student. The housing is good, parents are great and host brother/sister are even better. Housing in the minor leagues should not be this good, I feel blessed to have the opportunity to have met these great people and to be able to live with them. I have heard horror stories of some housing situations in the Minors and realize how lucky I am this season. P.S. If you readers would like me to write about something specific please let me know whether in the comments section or through a direct message. Follow me on twitter @StreetofFire Thanks for reading!!!!

The first week here (in Ft. Myers) has been a wild ride. From the plane ride, where I had the pleasure of meeting and talking to John Cena, WWE Wrestler, to having our first game today. The check-in day is always fun as you get to see your teammates and get to meet some of the new guys or players you haven't played with before. That day usually goes smooth and then the season starts the next day. As A.J. Pettersen pointed out in one of his posts, that day includes a lot of lines and being poked and prodded. After being given a clean bill of health we are able to hit the field and get some running tests done. Having long legs usually helps with these, and it is fun to see some guys putting up some good times. After the running day, the real practice starts the next day, and we get into groups and participate in drills. It is funny to think that we are doing the same drills as every other player in the world. Baseball is a game rich in tradition and has a very strong foundation. The Twins pride themselves on fundamentals and playing the game the right way. There is no better way to learn both of those than repetition after repetition. The practices are great and for a Massachusetts kid like myself playing in the Florida sun in March is something I never imagined, especially when it snowed about 10 inches on March 1st. That is something that many of the coaches say that sometimes gets lost because we hear it so much, but it is true. I am grateful everyday to throw on the jersey and some spikes and play the game. After a few days of throwing live batting practice to the hitters and scrimmaging against ourselves, we finally got to face a different jersey. The Red Sox came into town (even though they are also located in Ft. Myers) and my group played against them. This was the first time since September that I have played against another team. Genetically, I believe there is something ingrained in our code that brings out the competitive spirit. There is just something different about playing another team, guys you do not know personally, guys who are trying to hit the ball as hard as they can at you. The game went well and my team played great. Everyone was pulling for one another which is another cool thing about the game of baseball. Although it is a team sport much of the game relies on individuals doing their job to help the team. Although a guy may not have had a hit (individual fail), he may have made three great plays in the field that may have saved a run or two. That is when the team aspect kicks in and it was real cool to see that today in our first game of the year. Spring Training has just started, but it is rolling along and the real season is right around the corner. Jobs are out there and it is going to be a grind to secure a spot on any team. For now the hotel dinner is calling.... Signing off, Ryan O'Rourke [ATTACH=CONFIG]320[/ATTACH]

First off I would like to give a thank you to Seth Stohs and the rest of the Twins Daily writers for giving me the opportunity to post here about my life as a Minor League player in the Twins organization. My name is Ryan O'Rourke. I was born, grew up and still currently live in Worcester, Massachusetts, I also attended Merrimack College which is about 45 minutes away from my hometown. I graduated Merrimack College and was fortunate enough to be selected by the Minnesota Twins in the 13th round which has been my biggest accomplishment to date. I would describe my travels through the minors so far as being adventurous. I have met some great players, coaches, staff etc. and I have no complaints so far with anything. When Seth asked me to write my first post I was at a bit of a stand still on what should be my first topic. Do I talk about myself before the Twins (that may be a little boring for you readers), some of the best places I have played, or do I keep the timeline accurate and speak on my off-season? After some deliberation with some fellow teammates I decided to talk a little about the lift of a minor leaguer in the off-season months. But first, a little about me. I attended Merrimack College located in North Andover, Ma... which is more known for the hockey than the baseball. I played 3 years of baseball and was a finalist for the Tino Martinez Award (MVP for Division 2) and I won a Godl Glove in my last season. From there I left with a degree in Finance and Philosophy. I had a job lined up at a firm near Boston after the academic year but the Twins called my name and I was more than happy to trade that job in for baseball. In the past two off-seasons I have decided to put my degree to use and work in the finance field. This off-season proved to be easier than the last in attaining employment. When I returned home in September I had a few interviews already lined up with companies in Massachusetts. After going on the first two interviews both places had offered me a 6 month position but I still had other places to visit. I took a risk and declined those offers because the last interview was at the company I wanted. I guess I did well enough because I was offered the position and have been working here since September. The days are long and hard especially when I am trying to train for the upcoming season. A normal day consists of getting to work by 8:30 and staying there until 5. Once 5 comes I am out the door and driving to the gym to lift, throw or run depending on the specific day. That will usually take me till around 8 and from there I am on my way home for dinner. After dinner it is around 9 p.m. and time for bed. I know, this isn't the most exciting life but I like it because of the simplicity. Other than training at the workout facility I have also taken up heated yoga. Yes...Me, a 23 year old 6'3' non-flexible baseball player does heated yoga. I have to say that I have noticed a difference after doing it for 6 months. Not only am I a little more flexible I also feel like I can concentrate and focus a little better. The only tough part about yoga is that I am the "worst" student in the class. By worst I mean that there are some positions I cannot do so I have to struggle to look less awkward. Being competitive it is tough for me to look around and see 50 year old women giggling at me because of my inability to do basic poses. Well folks that is my off-season in a nutshell. Work 45 hours a week, lift/run/throw about 25 hours a week and the rest gets put to sleep, fantasy football or an occasional night out with friends. I am excited for my 2nd go at Spring Training which is less than a week from now. I hope that some of you leave some comments or send me a message about what you would like to hear, read etc. Signing off....Ryan O'Rourke

First off I would like to give a thank you to Seth Stohs and the rest of the Twins Daily writers for giving me the opportunity to post here about my life as a Minor League player in the Twins organization. My name is Ryan O'Rourke. I was born, grew up and still currently live in Worcester, Massachusetts, I also attended Merrimack College which is about 45 minutes away from my hometown. I graduated Merrimack College and was fortunate enough to be selected by the Minnesota Twins in the 13th round which has been my biggest accomplishment to date. I would describe my travels through the minors so far as being adventurous. I have met some great players, coaches, staff etc. and I have no complaints so far with anything. When Seth asked me to write my first post I was at a bit of a stand still on what should be my first topic. Do I talk about myself before the Twins (that may be a little boring for you readers), some of the best places I have played, or do I keep the timeline accurate and speak on my off-season? After some deliberation with some fellow teammates I decided to talk a little about the lift of a minor leaguer in the off-season months. But first, a little about me. I attended Merrimack College located in North Andover, Ma... which is more known for the hockey than the baseball. I played 3 years of baseball and was a finalist for the Tino Martinez Award (MVP for Division 2) and I won a Godl Glove in my last season. From there I left with a degree in Finance and Philosophy. I had a job lined up at a firm near Boston after the academic year but the Twins called my name and I was more than happy to trade that job in for baseball. In the past two off-seasons I have decided to put my degree to use and work in the finance field. This off-season proved to be easier than the last in attaining employment. When I returned home in September I had a few interviews already lined up with companies in Massachusetts. After going on the first two interviews both places had offered me a 6 month position but I still had other places to visit. I took a risk and declined those offers because the last interview was at the company I wanted. I guess I did well enough because I was offered the position and have been working here since September. The days are long and hard especially when I am trying to train for the upcoming season. A normal day consists of getting to work by 8:30 and staying there until 5. Once 5 comes I am out the door and driving to the gym to lift, throw or run depending on the specific day. That will usually take me till around 8 and from there I am on my way home for dinner. After dinner it is around 9 p.m. and time for bed. I know, this isn't the most exciting life but I like it because of the simplicity. Other than training at the workout facility I have also taken up heated yoga. Yes...Me, a 23 year old 6'3' non-flexible baseball player does heated yoga. I have to say that I have noticed a difference after doing it for 6 months. Not only am I a little more flexible I also feel like I can concentrate and focus a little better. The only tough part about yoga is that I am the "worst" student in the class. By worst I mean that there are some positions I cannot do so I have to struggle to look less awkward. Being competitive it is tough for me to look around and see 50 year old women giggling at me because of my inability to do basic poses. Well folks that is my off-season in a nutshell. Work 45 hours a week, lift/run/throw about 25 hours a week and the rest gets put to sleep, fantasy football or an occasional night out with friends. I am excited for my 2nd go at Spring Training which is less than a week from now. I hope that some of you leave some comments or send me a message about what you would like to hear, read etc. Signing off....Ryan O'Rourke