Good ballplayers should get all the chances in the world to play in the majors.
But, the game is a business and being a 9th-round draft pick (262 overall) means those selected before you will get more of those chances.
That’s the harsh reality of playing for a major league affiliate, but for an independent league team?
“I was playing for the Edmonton Cracker-Cats and got released when they signed a former first-round pick,” York Revolution outfielder Jason Aspito said. “I guess they thought it was good publicity.”
Aspito wasn’t out of a job for long. Within an hour he inked a deal to play for the Atlantic League’s newest franchise.
“I’ve played with guys who’ve played in the Atlantic League and I think the name speaks for itself. It was a great opportunity for me,” Aspito said.
The 29-year-old spent seven years with the Chicago White Sox and Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim organizations. In 2006, he spent part of the year in Triple-A, but found himself out of a job when the season was done.
“It’s never easy to get released. Guys tell me that your career doesn’t begin until your released for the first time.”
Two releases later, he was in York, working hard to capitalize on this latest new opportunity. In 54 games, Aspito batted .307 with 11 home runs and 32 RBI. It was enough to receive a call from manager Chris Hoiles this off-season.
“Chris called me, trying to get me to come back,” Aspito said. “He’s a very good manager and I was happy to come play for him again.”
Aspito is one of four outfielders the Revolution have under contract so far. He’s the first one, however, spending every day at the ballpark.
Aspito and infielder Matt Dryer are in York giving hitting lessons. It’s a strong publicity move by the team, but an even better opportunity for fans to get an up-close encounter with two guys they’ll be cheering on this season.
As for how he feels a year after being released for a former bonus baby.
“I definitely think I got the better end of the deal.”
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