Burke is a 37-year-old journeyman catcher with a total of three years and 38 days in the major leagues. You dont need to do the math to know thats a lot of time spent in one minor league city or another trying to get to the bigs.

This spring, Burke was a non-roster invitee who didnt make the team. Youth was served when Rob Johnson was selected to be Johjimas backup. Burke didnt complain, just went to Tacoma and did the best he could there.

Now hes back. For how long doesnt matter ? hes good for the pitching staff, good in the clubhouse. And, of couerse, this is good for Burke.

Nicer men are hard to find in Baseball or any where else. Burke has worked hard to learn the craft of catching the and the body-ruining tactics over the years. As a result, he can help a young pitcher through a tough inning, assist a veteran during a struggle. On the bench, he can help tutor pitchers and, yes, Johnson.

If the Mariners set him aflame each night, Burke wouldnt complain. Hes an Everyman, the guy who wants it bad enough, knows his role on a team and takes nothing for granted.

While hes in uniform, Burke will help the Seattle Mariners . And a man whos chased Baseball his entire life will enjoy every moment of it.

Newstex ID: TC-2491-34221966