Former Athletics’ catcher Terry Steinbach talks about the retiring manager, Tony La Russa
Tony La Russa retires after 33 years of service to Major League Baseball. The retiring St. Louis Cardinals skipper was instrumental in guiding his club to the World Series title. The team beat the Texas Rangers to avail the best parting gift, Russa could
ever ask for. Oakland Athletics’ former catcher Terry Steinbach worked under the man when he managed the A’s between the years of 1986 and 1995. Steinbach talked to the press about his former manager on Monday, October 31.
The former catcher was with the Athletics between 1986 and 1996. He picked up three All – Star selections in his career; in 1988, 1989 and 1993. He was a great component in the A’s line up when the club won the World Series in 1989. That achievement happened
to be La Russa’s first managerial feat of such a magnitude in the top league.
Steinbach is currently coaching the Wayzata High School boys’ baseball team in Plymouth, Minnesota and he took the time to comment on the La Russa’s retirement.
"It doesn't surprise me with Tony wanting to go out on top," Steinbach said. "As a manager, he was phenomenal - Just tremendous to play for. We had great success under his tutelage in Oakland."
The former backstop talked more on La Russa’s importance to the League and reflected on his experience that will be missed once the new 2012 season kicks off.
"I think, with him retiring, the game lost a tremendous manager and a great person," Steinbach said. "He didn't do any of it for his glory. He would say, 'Think about it. I can't run, hit, throw or catch anymore. The only thing I can do is make sure you
guys are ready to play, which means crossing the T's and dotting the I's.' He had the utmost respect for the game and his players."
La Russa is known for having that kind of approach to the Cardinals and that is what makes him an entity of much reverence in Oakland and St. Louis. With the skipper looking to hang his boots, one of his former students may take up the mantle to continue
his legacy. Steinbach may be that man, one day.
Tags: