Buck Showalter, the manager of the New York Mets, has expressed his admiration for Deion Sanders’ coaching abilities at the University of Colorado. Showalter and Sanders have a special friendship that dates back to 1989 when they were both with Double-A Albany-Colonie, a Yankees affiliate.
After the Mets’ recent loss to the Cincinnati Reds, Showalter stayed up late to watch the Colorado vs. Colorado State football game, which ended in a 43-35 overtime victory for Colorado. Showalter was impressed by Sanders’ calmness and leadership throughout the game, noting the role of the team’s coordinators in their success.
Showalter also spoke highly of Sanders’ abilities as a baseball player during their time together in the Minor Leagues. He described Sanders as one of the best players he managed, highlighting his exceptional speed and his strong relationship with his teammates. Showalter recalled informing Sanders of his promotion to the big leagues with the Yankees, a moment that brought back fond memories for both of them.
Although Sanders may not have achieved the same level of success in baseball as he did in football, Showalter commended his skills as an outfielder. Sanders had a respectable .263 batting average, 39 home runs, and 186 stolen bases in his baseball career, playing for the Yankees, Braves, Giants, and Reds from 1989 to 2001.
Sanders’ incredible athleticism was further exemplified on October 11, 1992, when he played an NFL game for the Atlanta Falcons in the afternoon and then suited up for the Atlanta Braves in the National League Championship Series on the same day.
It is clear that Showalter holds a deep respect for Sanders and his coaching abilities, recognizing the impact he is making at the University of Colorado.