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| Photo: DeseretNews.com |
Player Profile
Name: Taylor Adams Mangum
Age: 24 (Born 03/04/1989)
Birthplace: Vacaville, CA
School: Utah Valley U
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 190 lbs.
Year Drafted: Undrafted (signed in 2012)
Position: Relief pitcher
Throws: R
Bats: R
Minor League Affiliate: Helena Brewers
Taylor: Ever since I was old enough to pick up a ball ha I can't remember really when I started playing.
Andrew: Name an athlete that stands out to you as someone who inspired you to become an athlete yourself.
Taylor: My father, even though I was never old enough to see him play I've seen articles and heard stories about his competitiveness and drive. I've always wanted to make him proud of my accomplishments by following his example.
Andrew: What were your favorite sports teams growing up?
Taylor: Growing up in Northern California I've always been a big fan of the Giants, 49ers, and Sacramento Kings, hope they can stay in sac town and not Seattle
Andrew: If you had an opportunity to play with or against one baseball player that has either retired from the game or passed away, who would it be?
Taylor: Nolan Ryan, great athlete and example of hard work and dedication, not only on the field but in the weight room, I mean come on the man threw 7 no nos.
Andrew: Who is the best pitcher in baseball today, in your opinion, and why?
Taylor: Justin Verlander, great command and velocity. Crazy that he can start a game 91-93 and finish the 9th throwing 97-100+
Andrew: If it wasn't for your successes in sports, what would be your ideal career outside of baseball?
Taylor: I was studying exercise science in college but I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to do. I know the medical field is a solid occupation, something that will always be needed.
Andrew: If it weren't for baseball, what other sport do you think you would play professionally if you had the opportunity?
Taylor: Football, really miss playin under the lights on a Friday night. Some of the best times of my life.
Andrew: As a pitcher, are you more comfortable as a starter or as a relief pitcher? Talk about the different ways to mentally prepare for either position.
Taylor: I'm more comfortable as a relief pitcher. I love throwing in later innings when the game is on the line. I don't try to do it all myself you have to have confidence in your defense to help you get the job done. I just focus on throwing strikes and keeping the ball down cause I'm naturally a ground ball pitcher.
Andrew: The Brewers recently made a trade with the A's to acquire 3B Stephen Parker who happens to be your Brother in Law. Bias aside, what should Brewer fans expect from him in the next few years?
Taylor: Expect him to get the job done. He's the type of guy that will let his play do the talking. He leads more by example than anything else. He was limited In his playing time with the A's triple a team last year but when he's playing on a day to day basis he's as good as anyone. He's got a great glove and bat.
Andrew: Talk about being in the MLB Draft. Obviously it must have been disappointing to not get drafted, but just talk about the whole experience.
Taylor: Yea I was disappointed I didn't get picked up but all I was looking for was an opportunity and I got it. Not many teams were looking for a 23 yr old relief pitcher that took two years off to serve an LDS mission. A few days after the draft on a Saturday night I got the call, signed, and was on a plane to AZ the next day. It's always a blessing to be doing something you love, not many people can say that.
Andrew: Have you made any trips to Miller Park yet? If so, how did it feel knowing that could be you one day on there on the field?
Taylor: I haven't but my brother has. I know he's hoping to go back so I'm trying to give him a reason to go sooner than later ha. I have a great fan club from four older brothers, my parents, and most importantly my wife Michelle.
Andrew: In your opinion, who is the greatest baseball player of all time?
Taylor: Well being a bit biased towards pitchers I'll say Mo Rivera. He's been so consistent throughout his career and been a key part in the Yankees success. To dominate on the mound the way he has with really only one pitch has been absolutely incredible. He's the first that came to mind but I know there's many that can contend for the #1 spot.
Andrew: Overall, what are your early perceptions of the Milwaukee Brewers organization?
Taylor: Just that, organized. They run things in a very structured way. Look at the moves we've made this spring. No doubt we're trying to win not only a division title but contend for a championship.
Andrew: Chipotle or Qdoba?
Taylor: Chipotle
Andrew: Steroids in baseball is a serious subject right now. Talk about your feelings about Performance Enhancing Drugs in baseball.
Taylor: I feel they've ruined baseball. I would never want anyone to think back on my career and see me as a guy who cheated and cut corners. Athletes should have the drive to develop their talents naturally.
Andrew: Bottom of the 9th, two outs. Runner on third. Who is the last person in baseball today you would not want to pitch to?
Taylor: Whoever is swingin the hottest bat at the time ha but I'd have to say Miguel Cabrera.....triple crown winner for a reason.
Andrew: What is your main goal you have set for yourself going into the 2013 season with the Brewers?
Taylor: Make a full season roster prior to the draft and finish in Brevard or higher.
Until next time, Beers, Brats, and Championships.
- Andrew Vrchota (@AndrewVrchota)
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