Can you tell us a bit about your baseball background -- where you grew up, how you got into the sport, and which teams you played for during your major league career?
I was born in Baltimore and grew up in the Loch Raven/Parkville area until my family moved to Harford County right before I started high school. I played Little League and travel ball up until we moved. Widely known fact: I didn’t make the high school team at C. Milton Wright, my freshman year.
I really wanted to play, so I tried out again in my sophomore year, and fortunately, I made the team. After high school, I didn’t have any college offers to play baseball. Like many, I guess my baseball story could have ended right there. But after graduation, a childhood friend of mine asked me if I wanted to go to Florida with him and his dad on a junior college recruiting trip. I’ve never really traveled much, so I figured it would be a cool trip to make. We drove straight through to Florida and arrived a bit early at Brevard Community College.
After being in the car for what seemed like forever, it was great to finally be outside. I remember it was early, and I was helping my friend warm up, just playing catch. I had to borrow a glove because I didn’t bring any baseball gear with me. I remember the field being in immaculate condition, like nothing I’d ever seen before. Then, there was this guy who ran out of the building near the field and started yelling at us to get off the field – come to find out he was the pitching coach, and he thought we were two students just messing around on the field. Once he understood why we were there, he watched me and my friend play some more catch, and he casually asked where I was going to college. Once we established that I didn’t have any plans as of yet, he asked me if I wanted to throw a bullpen while I was waiting for my friend to finish up his tryout. I agreed – and had to now borrow a set of cleats, in addition to the already borrowed glove.
After the tryout was over, the Head Coach was talking to my friend and his dad in his office. I was in the gym hanging out, waiting for them to finish up. After about an hour or so, it was clear that my friend was going to Brevard on a full scholarship. I guess my earlier bullpen went well because before we left, they offered me one also. Looking back, it’s easy to say that trip changed everything. After that season, I was drafted by the Houston Astros. I declined that offer and chose to attend The University of Maryland at Baltimore County on a baseball scholarship. I was then drafted again after my junior year in the 2nd round by the Cardinals. After a trade and three years later, I made my major league debut for Oakland in 1996.
I started my career as a starter and then converted to full time reliever in 2001.
Oakland A’s 1996-1998
KC Royals 1999-2000
San Diego Padres 2000-2001
NY Yankees 2001
San Francisco Giants 2002
San Diego Padres 2003 – 2004
Colorado Rockies 2005
Oakland A’s 2005-2007
Tamba Bay Rays 2007
After retiring from MLB, you transitioned into new roles. Can you share what you’re currently working on and what your day-to-day looks like now?
After 15 professional seasons, 12 in the MLB, I retired at the end of the 2007 season. Shortly after retirement, I decided to use my playing career skill set to work with and represent professional athletes. I am currently an MLBPA-certified player Agent. This certification allows me to discuss my clients with all 30 MLB teams and negotiate their player contracts.
I advise players and their families on team interactions and help them navigate all the complexities of professional baseball. With the aid of my staff, we secure NIL endorsements, marketing, equipment, licensing deals, and we help players with their brand building. We also act as a go-between for players and their financial/legal teams. Many players appreciate having an agent who has extensive experience both on the field and off. The best part of my workday is that it is never the same.
I continue to be involved in the local HarCo baseball community, and I proudly coach both of my sons' youth teams.
What brought you to Harford County, and what made you decide to make it home?
Family. I’ve seen and been to a lot of nice places throughout my career. But after every baseball season, I always wanted to come back to where I felt the most comfortable, Harford County.
What do you love most about living in Harford County?
I like the Maryland seasons, and I also like living next to one of HarCo’s local dairy farms. While playing professional baseball, I spent many days and nights on the road in different cities. It’s a nice change of pace to see some cows once in a while and eat locally without all the hustle and bustle of city life.
Do you have favorite local spots, activities, or traditions that you enjoy here?
I love eating out. HarCo has many restaurants, and it seems like a new one pops up every week. My family, Jackie, Luke (9), Jake (7), and I can often be seen at the Greek Diner for breakfast. Current favorites include Italian Sensations, La Tolteca, and Box Hill Pizzeria. Their crab cakes are mighty tasty, and their salad dressing is high on my list of favorites.
In addition to being a baseball dad, I’ve recently become a Tae Kwon Do dad - both of my sons are currently competitive green belts at ATA Maryland in Bel Air. We love their “people first, winning matters” motto.
My father was in the military, and I’ve continued my membership with the American Legion – Harford Post 39; their pit beef on Saturdays always hits the spot.
I’m a big fan of supporting local HarCo businesses. It’s a family tradition with my wife Jackie and our two sons to visit Brad’s Farm every Halloween for pumpkins, hayrides, and locally grown produce.
What advice would you share with young athletes in Harford County who look up to you?
Play for the day. It’s easy to get caught up in what happens down the road. What matters most is being in the moment, on the field, with your teammates. A strong work ethic, discipline, and perseverance will always carry you further than a pair of fancy cleats or the latest and greatest bat.