Springfield Cardinals first baseman Chandler Redmond never forgets where he came from, and what round he was drafted in. “32nd pick,” said Redmond. “Number 965 overall.”
Redmond says those numbers mean everything to him. While nearly 1,000 players were chosen before him in the 2019 MLB draft, the number of Texas League players with more home runs than him is exactly zero.
“I can tell you one thing,” said Springfield Cardinals Manager Jose Leger. “He’s the first guy in here every day working out in the gym. He wants more. He wants feedback. He’s not satisfied.”
Last year, Redmond wasn’t satisfied with his physique. He credits his wife Kristan, a nurse, for being a great mom to their son Walker and a great meal prepper for him. “As soon as I started doubting or thinking something is too tough she’s right there supporting me,” Redmond said. “Having her as a support system has meant everything to me.”
“So when I saw him in spring training, I was like, ‘Woah, hold on now.'” Leger said. “And he told me he was very strict with his diet and workout routine. He changed it a little bit.”
“I think it’s more so just replacing the weight I had with some good weight,” Redmond added.
Last year the Spring Cards had another player who led the Texas League in homers. Moises Gomez wasn’t in Springfield for long and was promoted to Triple-A Memphis. “I hope that’s next,” Redmond said. “I don’t know what the future holds. I know that God does. It’s just not the right time right now. I’m just trying to stay in the moment.”
“I think he’s about ready,” Leger said. “I think the problem is what happens upstairs. What do they need? Do they need a first baseman? Sometimes it’s a matter of space.”
It’s a numbers game. It’s a game the former 965th overall pick isn’t afraid to play.
