A Few Questions for Ramon
Lakeland, Florida March 8th, 2010
An interview by Mark Abbott after the first week of Spring Training 2010:
What was your most memorable game last year with the Tigers (2009 season)?
Ramon: “The last game of the season against the Twins. Very high intensity. Every pitch was important and would decide if you went home or continued playing in the playoffs. It was one of the greatest games I ever played in.”
Are you glad that you don’t have to play in the Metrodrome any longer?
Ramon: “I hit well in the Metrodome but look forward to the new stadium there this year.”
After the 2009 season ended in Minneapolis, how much time did you have off before you started playing winter baseball with the Cibao Gigantes in the Dominican Republic?
Ramon: “I started playing with the Gigantes the end of November, so I almost had two months off.”
How do you feel after playing baseball for most of the past year since 2009 Spring Training?
Ramon: “I feel good. I’m in good shape. I’m ready to play and am looking forward to the regular season.”
What positions did you play this winter in the Dominican and in the Caribbean World Series?
Ramon: “I played Third, Shortstop and Second.”
What was your most memorable game from winter ball this year?
Ramon: “Game 8 of the Dominican Winter League championship (January 27th, 2010) against Escogido. Wilson Betemit hit two home runs in that game, one with two out in the bottom of the ninth to tie the game 3-3 and then we won the game 4-3 in 11 innings.”
What was the first year you came to Lakeland, Florida for spring training?
Ramon: “In 1998 for Detroit’s Instructional League.”
What Tiger do you think is playing the best in Spring Training this year so far?
Ramon: “Magglio Ordoñez.
What do the Tigers need to do different this year?
Ramon: “Last year we had too much confidence. This year we need to be consistent and win every game possible.”
What rookie do you think is doing the best this spring?
Ramon: “Ryan Strieby.”
What is your favorite food dish?
Ramon: “Aroz con guanadules.”
Where is your favorite place to eat in Detroit?
Ramon: “Bennihana’s”
I see that you are using a new glove this year. What kind of glove are you using?
Ramon: “Louisville TPX 11 ½”
How long does it take you to break in a new glove?
Ramon: “About two weeks. I use some softening ointment and put it in the microwave to soften it up.”
Are you using a different bat this year?
Ramon: “Same bat as last year – 33 ½ length, 31 ounces.”
What do you like best about the fans in Detroit?
Ramon: “They support the team well and I can feel the stadium support when I play in Comerica. They know a lot about the game and are very smart baseball fans.”
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