DALLAS -- Former MLB infielder Jose Vizcaino was known for creating excitement on the field over the course of his 18 big league seasons.
He cemented his name in baseball history by producing the game-winning single in the bottom of the 12th for the New York Yankees in Game 1 of the 2000 World Series against the Mets.
Although Vizcaino played for a total of eight teams, he's best remembered as a valuable backup, as well as an occasional starter, at shortstop during his five-season tenure (2001-05) with the Astros.
Similar to his clutch hit with the Yankees, Vizcaino belted a two-out, two-run pinch single in the top of the ninth against the White Sox in Game 2 of the 2005 World Series at U.S Cellular Field.
However, Houston lost in the bottom half.
After retiring from Major League Baseball following the 2006 regular season, Vizcaino was later hired by the Los Angeles Dodgers on Jan. 25, 2008 as a special assistant of baseball operations.
Vizcaino began his big league career with Los Angeles and made a second stint (1998-2000) prior to being traded to New York.
He's excited to be a part of the club where it all started for him.
"I have been in this role for almost four years now," Vizcaino said. "When I retired, I began to talk to Ned Colletti [Dodgers general manager]. I already knew him. I wanted to see what was out there."
Vizcaino has a strong passion for working on special projects within the organization, especially his involvement in player development.
"I get to travel and see all of our minor league teams play," he said. "I'm part of player development. I like the talent we have. We're getting much better at the minor league level, which will pay dividends down the road for our major league team.
"As a staff, we're doing a really good job."
Vizcaino, who attended the Winter Meetings, welcomes the addition of free agents Chris Capuano, Jerry Hairston Jr. and Aaron Harang.
"We've added some key veteran pieces to the mix," Vizcaino said. "Hopefully, they'll come in and help us to do better next season."
Vizcaino brings a similar approach, focus and intensity to the Dodgers' front office as he did on the field during his playing career.
According to Vizcaino, playing for several teams throughout his career helped to prepare him for the task at hand as a special assistant.
He credits the Astros organization for their overall influence.
"I played for a lot of teams in my career, but I can honestly say that playing for the Astros was one of my favorite all-time experiences," Vizcaino said. "Playing alongside Jeff Bagwell, Craig Biggio, Lance Berkman and all of my good teammates is something I'll always carry with me. In 2004-05, we made it far in the postseason. We wound up playing the White Sox in the World Series.
"I'll always cherish it."
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