Inside Spring Training with C.J. Beatty
This is the first in an exciting new series of inside looks at spring training from the players themselves. First up is my good friend, C.J. Beatty, who is a member of the Cardinals organization. This is C.J.’s first Spring Training, so he’s understandably excited. Here’s what C.J. said about his experience thus far:
I asked C.J. about some tweets he had after meeting Mark McGwire and Albert Pujols. Here’s what he had to say about those amazing experiences:
It was amazing! I honestly felt like a kid again! Jaw dropping! They walk with so much power! And when they speak nothing but wisdom comes out. Thanks,Stl. Cardinals #44
C.J. was a stand-out athlete in high school, playing both baseball and football for Glenn High School in North Carolina. After being recruited by a number of schools, he chose to attend North Carolina A&T State University. As a freshman, C.J. was the MEAC Rookie of the Year, NC A&T Rookie of the Year, First Team All-MEAC (2007-2009), Louisville Slugger Freshman All-American and he led the MEAC conference in homeruns in both his freshman and sophomore seasons. He was also the Male Athlete of the Year at NC A&T in both 2008 and 2009. In 2008, C.J. was ranked as the #4 prospect in the Coastal Plain League by Baseball America. C.J. was selected in the 26th round of the 2009 First-Year Players Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals.
C.J. is actively involved with L.E.A.D., the inner-city baseball organization where I serve on the Advisory Board, and frequently gives back in his community. He also has what I think is the best website of any baseball player, so please visit it at www.cjbeatty.com!
C.J., have a terrific 2010 season!
For love of the game,
Kristi
