Thanks to the almighty power of Twitter, PhightingOn.com got in touch with infielder Kevin Frandsen, who led the IronPigs last year with a .303 batting average. In this interview
(after the jump), we talk about Frandsen’s decision to come back to the Phillies, where he sees himself fitting in the organization and how he feels about Ryne Sandberg returning to manage Lehigh in 2012. Frandsen just got an invite to the Major League camp for Spring Training, which leads me to believe that he may take over for Michael Martinez, who no longer is required to be on the pro roster (Rule 5 Draft). He’s also a great guy, who was one of the candidates for the 2008 Roberto Clemente award.
PO: With the Jimmy Rollins situation looking less than perfect, and Placido Polanco’s health questionable, where do you think that you fit into the picture in 2012? Also, what kind of advantage do you think your versatility and ability to play all four infield positions gives you?
KF: just know I bring versatility to play all infield positions and I feel with the numbers I have put up consistently in the minor leagues throughout my career I know I could help a big league club, and I hope it is this year in Philadelphia.
PO: You had a great season in 2011, hitting .303 for Lehigh Valley, and helping to clinch the team’s first ever playoff berth. How can you mirror your success in 2012?
KF: I appreciate it. it was one fun year with that group of guys and the FANS were absolutely amazing in Allentown. Just being consistent and knowing the type of player I am and staying to that and not trying to be someone I am not. I feel numbers wise I can be way better!!
KF: I said all I had to when it was over and done. The thing I can reiterate is I made a mistake. No one else. I saw 4 different doctors and was deemed ADD. I didn’t get the ok by MLB and I made the mistake. I am very fortunate that the Phillies saw the character that I possess and stuck with me through that trying time and for that I will always be grateful.
KF: [Sandberg is] one hell of a manager and great guy to go along with it. I don’t know how many Hall of Famers would stoop down to our level in the minors but Ryno is far and beyond most Hall of Famers. I am looking forward to seeing him in spring, hoping maybe I dont have to play for him this year haha. But in all seriousness I was very disappointed that none of the teams looking for a manager gave him a job. I truly think he will be a great manager in the major leagues and obviously feel he is already a great manager in the minors.
KF: It’s more of a group. My brother battled cancer off and on for 19 years and passed away 7 years ago. through that time he had many athletes come and visit him in the hospital and never to see me haha (little brother syndrome). I like to attend children’s hospitals and visit with the brothers and sisters of those who are sick and may feel a little forgotten.
Be sure to check out 19forlife.org, a foundation started by Frandsen and his family after the death of his brother DJ that provides scholarship money to high school athletes that have overcome adversity.
