Q&A with Damian Jackson
San Diego Padres 1999-2001, 2005
(August 9th 2022)
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1. Who was the player that had the most influence on your career?
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DJ: It was so many, honestly Kenny Loftin and Albert Bell with my 1st affiliate (Indians), Then Barry Larkin (Reds) . And Lastly Tony Gwynn and his wife Alicia Gwynn.
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2. Favorite Qualcomm Stadium memory?
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DJ: Me stealing 5 bases in a game to tie a record with Tony. Rickey Henderson breaking Babe Ruth's BB record. Ty Cob's runs record and his 3,000's hit.
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3. A teammate you had a good connection with on and off the field?
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DJ: Mike Darr, Robert Fick and Trinidad Hubbard are all like brothers. Both on the field and off.
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4. Your best Tony Gwynn story/what was the best advice TG gave you?
DJ: Tony said "Don't let anyone rob you of a rare moment that you might or come across again.
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5. What advice do you have for a baseball player that wants to take his game to the next level?
DJ: Invest in yourself to the fullest. If you want the dream you have to fall in love with the process.
6. if you can go back and do it again, what would you do different?
DJ: Enjoy it more. Every year I had to fight for my spot/job. I never had the confort of knowing I would have a contract. So I would enjoy the city's teams and stadiums more. I would also celebrate myself and be proud of achieving what wanted to do ever since I was a kid.
7. What was the best advice you gave a teammate?
DJ: Always play hard because you never know who you will inspire. Everyone needs to be inspired.
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Damian Jackson thank you for taking time out of your day to answer these questions I appreciate it. Have a good day.
DJ: Daniel Marroquin you are very welcome. I echo the same sentiments to you and yours. Peace and blessings.
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Q&A with Mark Sweeney
San Diego Padres 1997-1998, 2002, 2005
(August 13th 2022)
1. Who was the player that had the most influence on your career?
Mark Sweeney: Ozzie Smith
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2. Favorite Qualcomm Stadium memory?
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MS: 1998 World Series games and celebrating our fans after the Yankees win.
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3. A teammate you had a good connection with on and off the field?
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MS: John Mabry with St.Louis Cardinals. Roommates.
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Your best Tony Gwynn story/what was the best advice TG gave you?
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MS: When I walked by him in the tunnel in the World Series at Yankee Stadium and he told me He was going to look 1st pitch FB in from David Wells and he hit his HR off the facade in the 2nd deck. He reinforced that the hitting tee is the best hit tool that I always thought as well.
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5. What advice would you give a baseball player that wants to take his game to the next level?
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MS: Play with passion for winning with your teammates.
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6. if you could go back and do it again, what would you do different?
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MS: Absolutely nothing.
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7. What is the best advice you gave a teammate?
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MS: Stay prepared, master your strengths and work on your weaknesses.
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