The tao of Gregg Zaun

Gregg Zaun is the ultimate journeyman.

Fifteen major league seasons with 10 separate teams. And don’t forget about the additional six seasons he spent in the Baltimore Orioles’ farm system either. Now the veteran catcher is eyeing a 16th MLB season with his 11th team, the San Diego Padres.

But even if Zaun fails to make San Diego’s roster, he has nothing to be ashamed about.

Zaun, 39, has experienced more than the average baseball player. He’s travelled extensively, made many friends along the way and has built a wealth of knowledge. Not bad for a catcher. Just imagine crouching behind home plate for nearly 20 years.

He was with the Florida Marlins when they captured their first World Series crown in 1997. He’s also seen Baltimore at different ends of the baseball spectrum – 1995-96, when they were legit contenders in the American League East; 2009, when the team struggled to stay out of last place.

I remember Zaun as a member of the Toronto Blue Jays. He was the starting catcher for the majority of his time in Toronto (2004-2008). Technically, he was the starter by default since the Jays had zero catching depth at the time. Still, he managed to earn respect from fans, sports writers and teammates. No, he never really tore the cover off the ball. But Zaun always gave a strong effort.

One Friday night, late in the 2006 season, I sat with some friends in the 500-level seats at the Rogers Centre. The Jays were playing the Kansas City Royals, a team Zaun had played for from 2000-2001.

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Midway through the match, one of the KC batters lifted a foul ball that was heading towards the camera bay on the first base side. Zaun charged towards the camera bay. As he got there and prepared to settle under the ball, Zaun ran into one of the television cameras, knocking it off its tripod.

In a split second, Zaun caught the ball; and with his other hand, grabbed the camera before it crashed to the floor. The crowd erupted!

It was that one play that defined Zaun for me: A player who uses every amount of energy to complete a play. It showed his incredible hustle and coordination.

There’s another play that stands out: 2008, a game-winning grand slam that gave Toronto a victory over the Tampa Bay Rays. Ironically – and such an occurrence can only happen in baseball – Zaun would hit a grand slam the following season as a member of the Rays in a game against the Blue Jays.

Zaun won’t make the Hall-of-Fame nor be named AL or NL MVP. Don’t expect him to capture the triple crown or smash the all-time home runs record either. Nevertheless, Zaun’s career has been incredibly rewarding.

Think of all the traveling through the United States and parts of Canada, all the picturesque towns, not-so-picturesque towns and some of the most exciting cities in the world. It’s an adventure, few experience, filled with fabulous memories and touching moments no doubt. Long-hour bus rides, charter flights, greasy spoons and fancy restaurants; it might not be glamorous, but it’s certainly romantic.

Compare Zaun with a player like Derek Jeter. Both have had meaningful careers. Yes, it’s a crazy notion. But remove the World Series rings, the stats, the awards and the contracts and tell me if you still disagree.

Fortunately, Gregg Zaun will be involved with baseball for a long time. Since 2006, he’s worked as a part-time commentator for Rogers Sportsnet in Canada. When he retires, he’ll perhaps continue to work in broadcasting, sharing insight and stories.

And if Zaun chooses that path, baseball fans are in for a treat.

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