Key Draws

Some players are more than the sum of their parts. There’s lots being said about Scutaro and whether trading Gonzo was just giving up “leather for stick.” I think it says a lot about making the most of the tools you’re given - in love too.

1. Be affordable. Scutaro’s affordability certainly was a draw. Although traditionally pop culture tells us that women like men with money, I think that’s on the wane. I don’t think women like entitled princes with that only-the-best-of-everything mentality. And I’m sure men don’t want to be with women who insist on the best of everything and never just want to grab some Korean food. Of course cheapness is never cool.

2. Be versatile. Defensively he’s supposed to be just an okay shortstop. But Scutaro was a hotter commodity because he could be a lot of things to a lot of teams. I think any potential mate is more appealing if s/he’s versatile. I know my husband liked that I could do black tie one night and sit on a log eating corn on the cob with butter dripping down my chin the next. Go-with-the-flowness is not quantifiable – but it’s valuable.

3. Get it started. Scutaro has emerged as a great leadoff, and that’s huge. Being able to lead the way, to get something started when things are flatlining is key. Someone who can break up the mood with a big laugh, make a great get-out-of-a rut plan – that’s huge.

4. Improve. After his Toronto trade, Scutaro shortened his swing and took the ball the other way more. The best s/o’s keep bettering their game. I’d never want to be with someone who wasn’t willing to keep trying to be a better player, and I’m always trying to be a better wife and friend.

5. Have an accent. I really liked it when Scutaro said, “We have a chance to win a championsheeep.” I haven’t heard sporting publications mention this accent as a key factor. Or any factor. But if all else fails, it can’t hurt.