Stephen Vogt believes in the Athletics just as much as they believe in him.
That’s why in his return to Oakland this season, the seasoned MLB veteran is helping his team’s youngsters learn how to handle the ups and downs that come with a season at the big league level.
During an exclusive interview with NBC Sports California’s Brodie Brazil that aired during “A’s Pregame Live” on Sunday, Vogt explained how he has guided the 21 rookies who have made their way to the Oakland clubhouse this season for their major league debut.
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“I think the biggest thing we can learn this year is how to be a pro, how to go about your business every day, how to play the game the right way,” Vogt told Brazil. “... Those things are very important for longevity in this game, for success in this game to be a consistent, every day professional, and our group’s doing that pretty well.”
In the midst of an MLB-worst 22-45 start to the season, there couldn’t be a better time for the 37-year-old catcher to share his wisdom with his younger teammates.
“We’re having some unfortunate success on the field wins and loss-wise, and I don’t think there’s any one of us that are completely thrilled with the year we’re having and that’s something we need to step up and we need to do a better job of.
Oakland Athletics
“But for me, the main thing I’m trying to do is I’m trying to just help guys learn how to be pros, learn how to be a big-leaguer, learn how to show up every day with the expectation that I’m going to do everything I can within my power to help us win tonight.”
With a decade of MLB experience under his belt, it’s safe to say Vogt knows a thing or two about what it takes to be a success in the bigs. And he certainly knows how to overcome adversity, too, after recently returning from an IL stint cause by a right knee sprain.
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Playing with the A’s back in Oakland on a one-year contract, Vogt is as familiar with the team's culture as anyone after also playing for the organization from 2013-17.
Now that he’s back, he’s making every moment count -- and that includes making sure the rookies make the most of their own moments.
“When we do all that, we’re going to start turning things around,” he said.