Bird knows that Rockies appearance will be special
this clubhouse,” Schaeffer said. “He’s a true veteran presence for these younger guys. He’s the same guy every day. He gets after his work in his own way which is a thoughtful way. He’s a great example to the other guys, he really is.”
Bird not only is a willing leader to the young roster, but an eager one.
But make no mistake. His goal is still to get himself back to the Big Leagues.
“I think you lead by example, always,” Bird said. “I’m here. I like to help guys. I like to pass on what’s been passed on to me. I think baseball needs that.
“But at the same time, we’re all baseball players. So there’s something I can learn from everyone whether it be players coaches, whoever, I always got my ears open, you know? But I definitely enjoy being around younger guys. And just passing on what was passed on to me. That’s what this game is about. That’s what life’s about. So I do enjoy that.”
While there’s a ways to go before such an opportunity might come to fruition, Bird can’t deny a Coors Field game down the road would be something special for him and his family.
“There’s so many people that have had such a role in my life that are from Colorado, where I grew up,” Bird said. “You can’t underestimate that. It’s a big deal. There was a lot of support. Friends, family, obviously, my parents being the most excited, I’d say, but like I said, there’s just so many people that have played a role in my life, that it’ll be cool for them, hopefully to get to share that experience in person.”