11. He frequently spoke Spanish with Latin players, foreshadowing how he would later use language to reach Hispanic voters. 12. He also accused the club of stifling the progress of Latin players and of turning its back on him at a time of need. 13. He had run-ins with two Latin players and made several strategy moves in a critical late-season series with San Francisco that were second guessed all winter. 14. He remembered and it helped him overcome stereotypes that often haunt Latin players. 15. He speaks often to Raul Mondesi, who has become a leader among the Latin players. 16. He speaks German from two years with Bayer Leverkusen of the Bundesliga, and Spanish from long association with Latin players in club soccer in Southern California. 17. He was coaching in the minors, staying at a hotel, when the desk called and said two Latin players were creating an incendiary device. 18. He was one of only two Latin players on the team and he had nothing in common with the other, Dave Martinez, who is eight years older. 19. In addition, the Rangers have a Rookie Career Development Program to educate teammates about the problems Latin players face. 20. It is remarkable how strong a clubhouse bond has been struck, for factionalism among Latin players is nothing new to the majors. |