Reddit AMA: Tigers prospect Max Clark talks swing, Harper and shoe game
Get to know Max "Spark" Clark!
The Tigers’ No. 2 prospect -- and MLB’s No. 11 overall -- was recently promoted to Double-A Erie after flashing elite bat-to-ball skills, quick-twitch athleticism and serious on-field swagger at High-A West Michigan. On Thursday, Clark gave fans a peek into his off-field personality during a Reddit AMA hosted by MLB.
Here are some of the best Q&As from the session:
Q: Hey Max, congratulations on your promotion to Double-A, it's been awesome to see you, Kevin [McGonigle] and Josue [Briceño] progress at (High-A) West Michigan this year. As a fellow lefty, you have one of the purest stances and swings I've seen. Could you discuss that plate presence and any inspirations behind your stance/swing?
A: Thanks so much. As for my swing ... I think it comes from my brother [Mason] and lots of [Bryce] Harper videos. I always mirrored my brother, grew up watching him, wanted to be just like big bro, he's my role model. Also from lots and lots of reps.
Q: How exciting is it to be a part of the Tigers org right now?
A: It has been awesome. Dream come true.
Q: Favorite Jordans and which ones are best for cleats?
A: I only wear Jordan 1s. My favorite forever. I love the way they look on the field.
Q: Hey Max, who was your favorite ballplayer growing up? And which players have you taken inspiration from to level up your game? Thank you for taking the time to do this. Detroit vs. everybody!
A: Oh, man, I was and I am the biggest Bryce Harper fan. I love everything about his game and how he carries himself.
Q: Hey Max, what is some good advice that you got prior to being drafted and since being drafted that you try to go by?
A: The best advice was to remember that you're still that 12-year-old kid playing that game you love. It’s a job, so that can get lost at times, but don't let it. It's still the same game.
Q: Hey Max! What hobbies do you have outside of baseball?
A: I am a big gamer. I bring my POGA everywhere I go. That's definitely my favorite hobby.
Q: Max, do you know ball?
A: I am honestly the biggest ball knower of all time. I hate on most of the tier lists I see online. But for real, I just love ball.
Q: Have you had a chance to connect with any of the guys on the main roster yet? If so, who has been the best influence for you?
A: Going through big league camp I got a chance to connect with pretty much everybody, it was a blast. Obviously Riley [Greene], Kerry [Carpenter] and Wenceel [Pérez] in the outfield -- being with them and being able to learn with them each and every day was amazing, and it definitely made it easier. In my first (Spring Training) game, I was visibly nervous and overthrew Riley while playing catch. He came up to me and said, "It’s the same game, this is your outfield, just do what you do.” And it alleviated all pressure. Love all those guys so much.