The experiences had by Angels first-base coach Alfredo Griffin throughout his life in baseball are uncountable. We are talking about a man who has put years of sweat and dedication into this game, who has played and who has become a king in the sport.
From his being awarded co-Rookie of the Year in the American League, playing for Toronto in 1979, to his world championships as a starting shortstop, to his time as a relief player, to now as a coach, the memories never end. He has lived through a transition with the bat, the ball and the glove that for obvious reasons many couldn't even imagine.
Since his service with the Angels beginning in the year 2000, Griffin has also witnessed a transition or transformation that many would consider improbable, even impossible. The native of San Pedro de Macorís in the Dominican Republic has loved what he has seen happen before his eyes in the Angels Organization.
"I have been here with different owners, uniforms, even variations of the team name," Griffin said. "I feel very fortunate to work next to a great manager and friend [Mike Scioscia], because he has given me opportunities with players that are precious to me. What we are experiencing here with so many good, young players is something that reminds me of my days with Toronto when I saw Shawn Green, Ryan Freel, and Cesar Izturis, along with others, grow and develop. Our young players have the ability to develop themselves and form part of a winning team for many years to come."
Griffin also believes that "here with the Angels there is a winning atmosphere, the fans that fill this stadium every night, the victories, the great owner ... all this helps to form a more solid concept for us to prepare the young guys. They get to know the expectations of a great team."
Alfredo Griffin was the co-American League Rookie of the Year in 1979. (Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
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Mota: Griffin a gem on Halos staff
Mota: Griffin a gem on Halos staff
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