""I don't know if you're aware of this, but you're almost this mythical figure now in the Dodgers' minor league system," McKain joked with the 27-year-old Massachusetts native. "The fan support for you because of how successful you've been [in the minors] ... are you aware of just of how popular you were among Dodger fans?" He said he was aware of his status among Dodgers fans, but said he didn't let it get to his head and instead stayed focused on trying to "kick the door down.""
""People all in minor leagues are asking themselves, like, 'What else do I have to do to get back up there, or get up there for the first time?'" he said. "I think it's a really good sort of culture to kind of get rid of all that mindset of 'I'm angry, I'm frustrated' ... The Dodgers do a great job of always putting together great guys and having great teams.""
Ryan Ward led the Pacific Coast League with 36 home runs, 122 RBIs and 315 total bases, earned the league MVP, and was added to the Dodgers' 40-man roster. He became popular with Dodgers fans as major-league outfielders struggled. Ward remained grounded, focused on controlling what he can and working to "kick the door down." An ego-free culture in Oklahoma City kept players motivated while awaiting call-ups. Minor-league teammates often ask what more they must do to reach or return to the majors. Injuries slowed Ward at times.
Read at Dodgers Nation
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