LSU coach Paul Mainieri consistently names legendary Los Angeles Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda as his favorite manager of all time, occasionally dropping a sage piece of advice given to him by the 20-year coaching veteran after a tough loss or a thrilling victory.
Now, his crop of players has voiced its favorite MLB influences, filling out a lineup of the Tigers’ “All MLB-Favorites Team,” which ranges from a former three-time Cy Young winner to the 2011 National League Most Valuable Player.
Jared Foster RF – 32 Josh Hamilton (Los Angeles Angels, RF)
Alex Bregman SS – 8 Ryan Braun (Milwaukee Brewers, LF)
Mason Katz 1B – 5 Albert Pujols (Los Angeles Angels, 1B)
Raph Rhymes LF – 2 Derek Jeter (New York Yankees, SS)
Christian Ibarra 3B – 19 Jose Bautista (Toronto Blue Jays, RF) and 2 Troy Tulowitzki (Colorado Rockies, SS)
Ty Ross C – 4 Yadier Molina (St. Louis Cardinals, C)
JaCoby Jones 2B – 10 Adam Jones (Baltimore Orioles, CF)
Aaron Nola P – 45 Pedro Martinez (former Boston Red Sox P)
“Because he wears an arm sleeve and he’s really good. That’s why I have the same stance as him.”
“He’s an awesome catcher. I love watching him because he’s so active behind the plate and always is throwing guys out.”
“His leg kick and his finishes after his home runs. Just all around the way he is.”
LSU junior catcher Ty Ross bunts the ball Tuesday, April 30, 2013, during the Tigers' 7-3 win against the MSU Cowboys.
