Q & A: Dwayne White

By David Dorsey
Fort Myers News Press

Fort Myers Miracle outfielder Dwayne White grew up in Independence, Kan., not to be confused with Independence, Mo., a suburb of Kansas City.

So as a child, White did not root for the Kansas City Royals, who were a four-hour drive to the north instead of right around the corner.

White, now 24, rooted for the best players he could watch on television. He hopes to join them someday after playing right and left field for the Miracle. White, who attended the University of Kansas for a year before moving on to Cowley County (Kan.) Community College, joined the Twins as a non-drafted free agent Aug. 17, 2004. He has made steady progress since then, Miracle manager Kevin Boles said.

"Dwayne White, he holds his own at either corner outfield spot," Boles said. "What he really excels at is backing up the bases. He always seems to be in the right place at the right time.

"He has a good feel for where to be when the ball's away from him."

Boles also managed White two years ago at low-Class A Beloit, Wis.

"He attacks the game more," Boles said. "You can tell he's more confident with how he approaches the game."

White talked to The News-Press about himself and his game.

Who was your favorite team and player as a child?

I didn't really have a favorite baseball team. Kansas City was kind of far, so I really became a fan of the whole game. Ken Griffey Jr., he has always been my favorite player and still is. Growing up, I played center field all through high school.

Have you ever met Griffey Jr.?

No, I have not. Never have. I've never seen him play in person, either. When I was growing up, he was with Seattle, and then he signed with the Reds. I've just never had the chance to see him play in person.

What have you learned the past two seasons?

My first year, it was all new to me, being in pro ball. Last year, I learned a lot about hitting — which pitches to hit — and being more selective. Hopefully, I can bring that here. Hopefully, I can carry over what I learned in Beloit.

What are your strengths as a hitter?

I would say, as a hitter, I like to use the gap. Driving the ball into the gap.

How close do you feel you are to the big leagues?

That's a good question. Some days, I think maybe not too far. Sometimes, I think I'm far away. That's why I love this game so much. It keeps you honest."