Sammy Sosa reacts to first day back at Cubs camp
Sammy Sosa returned to Cubs spring training for the first time in 21 years on Tuesday.
On his first day back, Sosa signed autographs, soaked up being back in the spring training environment, met with players and had an exclusive interview with Taylor McGregor.
Sosa was in the Cubs dugout for their spring training matchup against the Diamondbacks at Sloan Park, where he immediately had an impact on current players.
Sosa talked with Cubs first baseman Michael Busch, outfield prospect Kevin Alcántara and others about mental approaches, hitting advice and how he was able to get to his level of play during his career.
In an interview with McGregor, Sosa said he was, “happy to see everyone” in his return to Cubs camp and that he liked to be in the dugout helping them in any way he can.
Current Cubs asked the legendary slugger how he was able to find so much success on the field and his answer was simple:
“Work hard every day,” he said. “I never was satisfied when I was playing … that’s how you go from an ‘okay’ player to [a] superstar.”
It’s simple advice, but clearly it worked for Sosa and can help the young Cubs players in spring training and throughout their careers.
The Cubs hope Sosa’s presence and advice will help hitters navigate early-season struggles.
When talking about helping hitters Sosa said, “I’m an expert in that.”
For current Cubs, there may not be anyone better for them to get hitting advice than the 1998 National League MVP with 609 career homers.