Catholic baseball player thanks God for many blessings

Published: 2006-03-24

SURPRISE, Ariz. (CNS) -- It was a cool and crisp morning at spring training camp for the Kansas City Royals baseball team in Surprise. Wearing a bright blue jersey with the number 29 stitched on the back, first baseman Mike Sweeney worked on his bunting skills. The five-time All-Star said he was excited to be back at camp and had a lot to be thankful for this spring. "I'm healthy, blessed with a great wife and two beautiful children and at times I ask the Lord, 'Why are things so good?' I know it's due to his mercy, grace and love for me," said Sweeney in an interview with The New Vision, newspaper of the Diocese of Tucson. As a Catholic athlete, Sweeney gives a lot of praise to God and uses him as a beacon to guide his life. During a time when some of baseball's biggest stars have been surrounded by controversy about the use of steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs, Sweeney credits the church in keeping his mind, body, and soul pure. "Without the gift of the Catholic Church and being able to receive the Eucharist, I would probably be the guy experimenting with steroids, drugs and infidelity," he said. "I get filled up by my relationship with God."

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