JUPITER, Fla. -- The newest addition to Cardinals camp showed up on Tuesday with a reputation that preceded his arrival. It was Bob Gibson -- Hall of Famer, Cy Young Award winner and two-time World Series champion.
He's adding teacher to the list this week, as Gibson's purpose in traveling to Florida is to be an available resource to players in the clubhouse. He's among several guest instructors the Cardinals will host this spring, but also one of the most accomplished.
His first day in camp included an introduction with new center fielder William Fowler, who walked over to shake Gibson's hand.
"Glad you're here -- with a real organization," Gibson deadpanned.
Even before Gibson began to engage in conversation with Cardinals players, he arrived with notes. He told manager Mike Matheny he had some thoughts to share after watching an earlier spring game on television. More than anything, Gibson wants to leave having made an impact.
Matheny reminded players of that on Tuesday, encouraging them to shake any intimidation and take advantage of the Hall of Famer's presence.
"Just making sure they understand how unique it is and how special it is to have these opportunities and to not let them slip away," Matheny said. "If you do, we're not guaranteed we'll keep having those opportunities, that they'll be able to make the time to come down here or that you'll get the chance to see them. I think more than anything else we need to make sure these guys know how important it is if they can make it work to see them."
Several pitchers have intend to heed that advice, as they have before.
"I've been fortunate to get to talk with him quite a bit over the last few years," Trevor Rosenthal said. "He pays a lot of attention to what we do. It's good to have him around, and it's also a pretty cool thing."
"He was in the clubhouse today talking to guys at the lockers, shooting the breeze," added Adam Wainwright. "He's still part of everything here. That's why we love when he's here. He's still got a lot to give."