Super-duper Hen
Hooper the champions' spark plug
Mud Hens infielder Kevin Hooper is only 5-9 and 160 pounds, but he packs enough energy in that frame to supply his teammates and fans. He once played every position and pitched - in a game.
By MAUREEN FULTON
BLADE SPORTS WRITER
Middle infielder Kevin Hooper isn't exactly in love with his "Super Hooper" nickname, and can't guarantee the return of the Toledo Mud Hens' pregame dance that centered around him last season.
"It's to-be-determined," Hooper said, adding some suspense by saying, "We'll find out [tomorrow]."
Everything else will be business as usual for Hooper as the Hens open their season tomorrow at Fifth Third Field against the Charlotte Knights in a 5:30 p.m. start.
One of 11 returning Hens from the 2005 Governors' Cup champions, Hooper will gladly resume his role as clubhouse leader and resident "spark plug."
"He's a valuable guy to have on your club," Hens manager Larry Parrish said. "Whether he's playing, working with the other infielders, or on the bench, he brings a lot of energy. He's a special kid."
Tomorrow will be Hooper's fifth opening day with a Triple-A ball club. At 5-foot-9, 160 pounds, he joined the Tigers organization last season and quickly became known for his speed and versatility.
"Everyone knows he's a little guy, but he plays his heart out, I'd take him on my team any day of the week," infielder Mike Hessman said. "He's always on base, he's always stealing bags, he's making the plays when we need it, he's laying down a bunt when we need it, the guy just does everything on the field."
That culminated, of course, when Hooper played all nine positions in the Hens' final regular season game on Sept. 5, picking up a save when he pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning. "Super Hooper" was born.
"He keeps things loose, he's a ball of energy," shortstop Don Kelly said. "He's a great guy to have on the club as a leader."
Hooper, 29, is as eager as anyone to recreate last season's 89-55 record and International League Championship run. It was a good year all around for him. On June 27, his daughter, Lucy was born, and a week later he was called up to Detroit for the first time, spending 2 1/2 weeks with the Tigers.
"You've got to be excited coming back to this place," Hooper said. "Hopefully we can all gel like we did last year."
A career .268 hitter in the minor leagues, Hooper gets as much satisfaction giving younger infielders pointers in practice as he does stealing a base or making a leaping catch.
"This is going to be something I stay involved in when I'm done playing," Hooper said. "Either manage, or stay among baseball as long as I can. They see me as a leader and I look forward to that role."
Contact Maureen Fulton at:
mfulton@theblade.com
or 419-724-6160.