Hooky Witnessed History, Now Reunites with Lett, Hoffman

[Roger Redmon]

Our very own Chris Hook was a member of the Reds' Class-A Charleston affiliate in 1990 when the conversion of Trevor Hoffman from an infielder into a pitcher took place. That's right...the all-time MLB saves leader was once a light-hitting shortstop in the Reds' farm system. This spring there will be a reunion of sorts with the Milwaukee Brewers. Hoffman just signed a one-year deal to pitch for the Brewers after not being re-signed by the Padres. The manager at Charleston in 1990 who oversaw Hoffman's switch to the mound is Jim Lett. He is also with the Brewers' organization as a coach in the minor leagues. And, as fate would have it, Hooky is also with the Brewers as the pitching coach at Class-A Wisconsin. You can bet when spring training takes place in Arizona next month this story will be mentioned a time or two. You should ask Chris about the evolution of Trevor Hoffman from catching bullpens in the low minors to becoming baseball's career saves leader!

[Chris Hook]

It's true Rog but I never in a million years thought that the guy I was throwing to in the bullpen would someday be a hall of famer much less a pitcher in the HOF. Trevor is an ultimate professional, one of the hardest workers out there and a supreme competitor. I look forward to catching up with him, Trevor will indeed have a big impact on the Brewers bullpen as well as any prospect he may be in contact with during Spring Training. And for all your readers out there... Trevor and I were members of that Charleston, WV team... it was a affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds! Look what the Reds could of had... Trevor Hoffman! :)