Chris Gwynn becomes Seattle Mariners’ director of player development
It is not easy to be a brother of a legendary player in the major league baseball industry. For Chris Gwynn, the story has been somewhat similar. Being the brother of San Diego Padres Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn, Chris Gwynn has enjoyed his presence at the
Padres headquarters as the director of player personnel for the last two years. He has also been part of the scouting department for the last dozen years. Now, the Seattle Mariners have him at Safeco Field as their director of player development. The news
came forth on Tuesday, 1 November.
Gwynn also was a Major League Player for ten years and now he is looking to bring that experience and aptitude to the lime light for the Seattle youths. He will be taking charge of the Minor League farm system, replacing Pedro Grifol, who has gone back to
coaching.
"The draw was the opportunity to be the farm director and be able to affect the younger kids and their careers as well as the coaches," Gwynn said. "Everybody has aspirations. I've been on the scouting side forever, and if there was an opportunity like this
I was going to jump.
"I wouldn't do it for just any organization. I have to agree with the type of players and philosophy they have. Seattle was a match."
Chris Gwynn not only wants to make the best out of his experience but he also wants to work with a former scouting giant, Jack Zduriencik. The Seattle man is currently the club’s general manager.
"I've known Jack for a long time from scouting, and I've admired him from afar. And that helps me because I think he can relate to where I'm coming from."
The former player went expressed his desire to work with Seattle, claiming that the general manager was one of the perks that attracted him to Safeco Field. He also told the press that he always enjoyed visiting the city and has been a secret fan of the
club for a long time.
Gwynn has not been in the Major Leagues for long. He hit .261 and brought home 118 RBIs and 17 home runs in his career.
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