Teddy Blackwell knew minors trainer meant teaching
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As the trainer for the single-A Columbus RedStixx in 1993, Teddy Blackwell spoke to The Columbus Ledger-Enquirer about some of the problems in working with young players.
The players, Blackwell told The Ledger-Enquirer, sometimes didn't see the value of methods to ensure they stayed healthy.
"They think they don't have any problems coming in. Then they play every night and work out every day," Blackwell told The Ledger-Enquirer. "They learn, 'Hey, I may need to cut back on my throwing.' Older guys take that responsibility. The younger ones have to learn that we have a conditioning and maintenance program for a reason."
Blackwell was then in his fifth season as a trainer in the Indians system. He's gone on to work with young Cleveland players in the three decades since, including 2023.
Blackwell's career as a trainer began in 1988, having graduated from Elon College in North Carolina.
He served his first two seasons at rookie Burlington. He moved to short-season Watertown for 1990, then single-A Columbus in 1991.
He's then stayed with the Cleveland organization in the years since, including serving as trainer at high-A Kinston over several seasons. He continued with the Cleveland organization in 2023.
In 2005, with rookie Burlington, Blackwell received praise from Burlington Indians GM Mark Cryan, according to MiLB.com.
"Having Teddy here means that the clubhouse runs smoothly," Cryan told MiLB.com. "When the team's on the road, everything's taken care of. He's a real pro."
- Columbus Ledger-Enquirer, April 12, 1993: RedStixx Trainer
- MiLB.com, Oct. 11, 2005: Indians Trainer Keeps It All Working
Made the Majors:1,380-32.8%
Never Made Majors:2,825-67.2%-X
5+ Seasons in the Majors:561
10+ Seasons in the Minors:344
More 1990 Minor Leaguers:
- Eric Blackwell saw 3 seasons in Dodgers system, family team, 12/5/17
- Paul Blair knocked in runs in minors, followed dad to pros, 1/20/20
