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Dallas McPherson, 3B, Angels

Sporting News, The, March 18, 2005 by Stan McNeal

The Angels have one of the best teams in the majors, but they have a hole at third base because of the departure of Troy Glaus. The club hopes rookie Dallas McPherson, 24, is ready. McPherson, one of the game's top power-hitting prospects, is considered a leading candidate for A.L. Rookie of the Year. A native of North Carolina, he talks about the challenges ahead--for him and his beloved college basketball team.

TSN: When the Angels let Glaus walk (as a free agent), did it sink in that this season was going to be your time?

McPHERSON: It was nice to come in here with a chance to make the team, but I'm a long way away. I have a lot to prove before I even make this club.

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TSN: Growing up in North Carolina, how much basketball did you play?

McPHERSON: I had a good career in high school, but I couldn't dribble, and I'm way too small (6-4) to have gone on. Baseball always was my first love. It was what I was best at.

TSN: So, Duke or Carolina?

McPHERSON: I'm a Tar Heel fan. My dad was a big Tar Heel fan. Michael Jordan was coming through around the time I was born, and I grew up watching him in the NBA. Being a Tar Heel was kind of bred in me.

TSN: With the season they've had, should Carolina be the favorite in the NCAA Tournament over Illinois?

McPHERSON: I think they are. Their offense is just explosive. They are just as quick as Illinois, just as fast. It would be a good game. That's what I want to see.

TSN: Scouts rave about your raw power, but you've also piled up a lot of strikeouts. Will you change your approach in the majors?

McPHERSON: I've been trying for a couple of years to change my approach with two strikes. I don't believe that striking out comes with being a power hitter. I don't believe I have to strike out.

TSN: Scouts also say the Angels should be worried about your defense at third base. Is there much reason for their concern?

McPHERSON: I don't believe so. I don't think I'm terrible by any means. Definitely I have some work to do, but I'm getting better.

TSN: Has third base always been your position?

McPHERSON: In pro ball. In college (The Citadel), I pitched and was more DH when I wasn't pitching.

TSN: Did you consider trying to make a pro career as a pitcher?

McPHERSON: Actually, I did until my junior year. I had a few arm problems, and my hitting took over. I was drafted as a pitcher out of high school (in the 44th round by the Braves in '98), but the money wasn't much and I didn't want to give up on hitting.

Dallas McPherson, 3B, Angels

Sporting News, The, March 18, 2005 by Stan McNeal

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