Being a practicing Orthodox Jew on the low Class A California League circuit can be lonely. It also can be complicated.
The first had been historic. Two years ago, the Arizona Diamondbacks made Long Island high-schooler Jacob Steinmetz the first Orthodox Jew ever drafted by an MLB organization. It was a joyous occasion, but it was also scary.Because Steinmetz was embarking on a career that might be at odds with his religion.
During the Sabbath — 25 hours from dusk Friday night to dusk Saturday — Steinmetz will not ride in a motor vehicle or use any electronics. He will walk to the ballpark, often traversing several miles there and back. Before and after games, as his teammates tuck into whatever spread the team has provided, Steinmetz instead consumes rigorously prepared kosher meals. The Diamondbacks schedule his starts for earlier in the week, although he would pitch on the Sabbath if required.
They’ve spent on more than just food. When Steinmetz got to Visalia, Barfield personally bought him a bicycle to ride the four miles from his house to the ballpark. He doesn’t take it on the road, and when the team hotel is not a walkable distance from the field, the club puts Steinmetz up in a different, closer hotel. When that’s not available — or when the team commutes to nearby cities like Fresno — Steinmetz is told to stay back rather than hoof it.
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