CHRIS
SPADACCINI |
Career:
2000 - 2003
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Inducted:
March 15, 2004
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Chris
Spadaccini was acquired as a free agent prior to the 2000 season.
Little did we know the kind of an impact this burley infielder would
have on the Rockies family. A friend from back home in Connecticut,
of team captain Leland Boutilier, Chris was a welcomed addition to
the roster. Spaz was a talented ball player, who's defensive skills
did not limit him to just one position. He was always eager to show
his stuff on the diamond, any time, any position. He willingly accepted
the role of utility infielder but saw most of his action at second
base. He was an immediate fit with the team, and that bond got stronger
as the years passed. You couldn't help but love Spad-a-dooch: he played
infield, saw time in outfield, started games, pinch hit, was a defensive
replacement and oddly enough, became the most successful pinch runner
in team history. Somehow, every time Chris entered the game as a runner,
it was uncanny how he found a way to score. If you ask Chris, he will
say his most important contribution to the team was, hands down, the
fact that he kept the meanest scorebook ever. These are the things
that make a great teammate - the things Chris brought to the field
every game. Unfortunately, a job opportunity in San Francisco cut
Chris' Rockies career short after the 2003 season. There wasn't a
player, past or present, who didn't hate to see Spaz go. Spaz still
keeps in touch with everyone and occasionally visits, but outgoing
personality and presence on the roster will never be replaced.
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