Todd Frazier, a rookie baseball player, had a brief stint in the major leagues when he was called up for a game in Philadelphia. Unfortunately, he struck out and was subsequently sent back to the minor league on the same night. Coincidentally, during that time, we were in the process of planning our Toms River Magazine. It was then that I had a brilliant idea to feature the local Little League World Series champion on our cover, donning his Reds uniform.
In 2011, that was the year when it all happened.
While at Disney World in Florida, I had the opportunity to witness a heartwarming moment. My son was getting a haircut, and sitting next to us was a young boy sporting a reds #21 hat. He proudly wore a Frazier Jersey and excitedly watched Todd Frazier highlights on his phone with his mom.
“I’m getting ready for warmups; what’s up?” he replied.
I informed Todd that his most devoted admirer was seated beside me, and I captured a snapshot of the child to share with him. Jokingly, I suggested, “Wouldn’t it be awesome if you could FaceTime with him?”
Despite claiming to be busy, Frazier promptly Facetimed me.
“Excuse me, ma’am,” I politely informed his mother, “but someone is calling on my phone for your son.”
To my surprise, she gave me a bewildered expression and instinctively pulled her son closer. However, she eventually acknowledged the situation and, just like that, Todd Frazier was video calling this child while they were at Disney.
“What’s going on, friend?” he greeted.
Frazier’s ability to connect with fans is what makes him so admirable, even years later. In just a brief 20 or 30-second conversation, he managed to leave a lasting impression on people from all over, whether they were in New York, Cincinnati, Chicago, or even here in Jersey. His genuine kindness and class made him a true role model, as he took the time to create personal memories for countless children. And even now, he continues to make a positive impact on fans, showing that his connection with people is timeless.
Mark Sanchez and Todd Frazier had an unfortunate encounter that will soon be revealed.
