Sean Casey honors his hero in more ways than one

Sean Casey is one of my favorite players. Not only because he has played for my three favorite teams (Reds, Pirates, and the Tigers), but because he is a genuinely nice guy. Casey was given the nickname of "Mayor" in Cincinnati because he seemed to know everybody and would make small-talk with anyone, especially base runners on first. Most recently Casey was overwhelmingly voted by his peers to be the "friendliest player in baseball" - he received 46% of the vote - the next closest received only 7%.

What I most like about Sean Casey is that he has never forgotten his roots. Casey was raised in Upper St. Clair, PA (a suburb of Pittsburgh). He would often attend Pirates games at Three Rivers Stadium and sit along the third base line to get a good look at left-handed batters. Although not a lefty, Roberto Clemente quickly became Sean's hero. Casey carries on Clemente's legacy in multiple ways, most evident is the number on the back of his jersey, 21. Casey has continually worn this number in honor of Clemente except in Pittsburgh where the number is, of course, retired.

Like Clemente, Sean champions humanitarian efforts and giving back to the community. He helped found Labels are for Jars, an innovative organization aimed at stopping hunger. Casey has also been active in Big Brothers and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, as well as the "Casey's Crew" program designed to provide free high-priced tickets to disadvantaged youth. Sean credits his Christian upbringing in Upper St. Clair for his generosity.