The 33-Year-Old Rookie: How I Finally Made it to the Big Leagues After Eleven Years in the Minors

by Chris Coste

Chris Coste dreamed of playing major-league baseball from the age of seven. But after eleven grueling years in the minors, a spot on a major-league roster still seemed just out of his reach–until that fateful call came from the Philadelphia Phillies in May 2006. At age thirty-three (“going on eighty”), Coste was finally heading to the big time.

The 33-Year-Old Rookie is like a real-life Rocky, an unforgettable and inspirational story of one man’s unwavering pursuit of a lifelong goal. Beginning in a single-parent home in Fargo, North Dakota, and ending behind home plate on the flawless diamond of the Phillies’ Citizens Bank Park–where fans and teammates call him “Chris Clutch” because of his knack for getting timely hits–this intimate account of Coste’s baseball odyssey is a powerful story of determination, perseverance, and passion.

For eleven seasons, Coste hustled, fought, and gritted his way to his breakthrough–and never lost faith in his abilities. Along the way, he gained the affection and admiration of baseball fans from Ottawa and Scranton to various Mexican and Venezuelan cities. Battered by years spent behind a catcher’s mask, and faced with bracing realities–there were bills to pay, and his young daughter was entering first grade–Coste decided to give it one last shot in 2006. But that year, during the Phillies’ major-league spring training, Coste was demoted to the minors at the last minute to make room for a utility outfielder, despite having hit a blistering .463 and earning the trust of the team’s pitchers. Later that season, though, Coste finally got the call-up, and he hit .364 during the Phillies’ furious battle to nail down the final postseason berth.

Coste takes us through the 2006 spring training season–with its pulse-quickening moments and close calls–and into his first season as a major-league catcher with the Phillies. From tense stretch-run games that kept Phillies’ fans on the edge of their seats to moments of intimate personal reflection, Coste’s saga offers baseball aficionados an inside look at a remarkable life and career. In this stirring, wry, and candid look at the life of a professional baseball nomad who never surrendered his dream, we savor the sometimes bittersweet fruits of victory against seemingly insurmountable odds.

Genres: Sports, Baseball, Nonfiction, Memoir, Biography, Autobiography

199 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[AJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought it was a great story and very inspirational to me and I can take a lot away from it because I play baseball and I understand a lot of what the author is saying

[Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chris Coste
The 33-Year-Old-Rookie
New York: Ballantine Books, 2008-2009
221 pp. $15.00
978-0-345-50703-7


"Hard work pays off!" is what a coach once said to me. That quote reminded me of so many things while I was reading this book. The author Chris Coste tells he story. His childhood was not what every kid would want. He lived in a small town in North Dakota, never met his father, and his small family was not one of the wealthiest families around. However, after all that he still manages to live an extraordinary life. Coste shares his baseball story of how it took him thirteen years to get the call to the big leagues. This biography demonstrates what a how to have a great attitude. The title explains it all.

In most cases in baseball rookies come up to the major leagues when they are in the age group 22-24. Coste's case was a rarity. He was a thirty-three year old rookie. He started off his career in the minor leagues just like any other young baseball player, but lets just say he had and extra long stay at this hotel (hotel meaning minor leagues). Every single year in spring training he would work his tail off, but always fell short to someone else. Finally in 2006 he got the call to the Philadelphia Phillies roster, and one a World Series with them in 2008. He is currently a member of the Houston Astros, the Phillies favorite trading partner.

Coste's story is remarkable and a perfect example of not giving up. This biography will make you think twice the next time you put your head down. I strongly recommend this book to all readers who have a dream of their own.

[Simone · Rating 4 out of 5]

The 33-year-old Rookie vs. The Dog Killer

I love sports. I love the possibilities, the dreams, the striving. Athletes manifest determination, grit, and desire on a mental, spiritual, and physical level unmatched in any other arena. More than anything, I'm thankful for the inspiration, and many times, the absolute wonder of some athletes' accomplishments. And sometimes I'm crestfallen and/or disgusted by their downfalls.

This year, we were blessed with witnessing Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt's God-like victories at the Olympics. I was terribly saddened by Ryan Shay's untimely death during the Men's Olympic Marathon Trials. I was also deeply disappointed by Marion Jones' disgrace and subsequent sentencing of six months in prison for lying about using steroids and a check-fraud scam.

The behavior of athletes does influence us. They are role models. They should be held to a higher standard. There could not be two athletes more at the opposite ends of the spectrum than former NFL player Michael Vick and Philadelphia Phillies' catcher Chris Coste.

I bring up these two guys because I just finished reading Coste's book "The 33-Year-Old Rookie" and an article in Sports Illustrated about what happened to the 51 pit bulls seized from Vick's dogfighting operation.

There were some similarities in my reaction to these stories. Tears came to my eyes when Chris Coste finally made it to the The Show after 11 years in the minor leagues. His story was was one of gratitude and humility. There were no sex scandals, doping, wife-beating, drugs and alcohol abuse, or even much foul language. I only remember one bad word in the whole book.

Tears also came to my eyes reading that 47 of the 51 dogs, taken after local and state authorities busted Vick's Bad Newz Kennels, survived and have found loving homes. Dogs like Sweet Jasmine, Teddles, Zippy, Grace and Sweet Pea are putting back together their shattered lives. They are healing, and in some cases, helping to heal others.

The article highlighted a quote by Gandhi over the entrance to Oakland Animal Services that I'd like to share. "The greatness of a nation and it's moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." It's probably a good thing that I was not called to judge Michael Vick. He would not have done well if he had had to sustain the same punishments his dogs survived.

These two men could not be more different. Coste was awarded the 2007 Media Good Guy Award. I had no idea they gave an award for being a good guy. He is definitely the right guy to win it. Vick received 23 months at Leavenworth.

As for me, I can't wait for Spring, Opening Day, hot dogs, the National Anthem, and the seventh-inning stretch. I may not know a lot about Baseball, but I know enough to know that it is an open-eyed meditation. It is a call for the community to come together and watch the slow unfolding of competition.

The 33-Year-Old Rookie reminds me that the long, cold winter will soon end with the crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd. It reminds me why I love Baseball, and why I admire athletes' determination, grit, and desire.

[Lance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating:
5 of 5 stars (outstanding)

Review:
Chris Coste’s account of his baseball journey through an independent league, the minor league system and finally to the major leagues as a member of the Philadelphia Phillies is one of those stories that make you want to stand up and cheer for the man. His story is not unique as there are other players who make it to the major leagues after toiling many years in the minor leagues. This story, however, is a refreshing read for people like me who have grown weary of reading about athletes who have one or more of the following traits: massive ego, massive libido, substance abuse, use of performance enhancing drugs, or poor handling of large amounts of money.

Instead, Coste takes us through his trials as a member of the Fargo team in the independent Northern League where he was not only a very good player, he also performed other tasks, including a stint as the merchandising manager in the off season and hosting a sports talk radio show. As a native of the town, he was contemplating settling in for a career with the team when he would no longer be playing, but when he was offered a contract with the Cleveland Indians, he decided to go for it.

Through many trials and tribulations, times when he would wonder what he had to do in order to make it to the next level, and with love and support from his wife and daughter, Coste’s story is truly one that has a happy ending when he finally makes it to the majors in 2006 with the Phillies.

Coste writes as if he is truly humbled by the entire experience and he also states in various ways that he is grateful for his chance. One of these expressions comes when he states that he made a vow to never complain about the amount of taxes taken out of his paycheck as he realizes that as a professional baseball player he is luckier than most. There is NO mention of performance enhancing drugs, a wild lifestyle off the field, or any of the other trappings that often are the life of the professional athlete. For that reason alone I found this book to be refreshing.

If you like to read about one of the “good guys” who makes it big thorough hard work, you will want to read this book - a fast paced, inspiring book of someone who really was able to fulfill his dream.

Did I skim?
No.

Pace of the book:
Excellent. It was a quick read. It was detailed enough to be informative but so much so that it dragged.

Do I recommend?
Yes. Not only baseball fans will enjoy this book but anyone who loved a good story of an underdog who was able to accomplish his dreams through perseverance and hard work.

Book Format Read:
Hardcover

[Carston H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a really good book.I really liked this book because it tells u about the struggles some players go through to make it to the MLB.It teaches you that no matter the struggles that you face never give up because if you don't you will achieve your goals someday.I recommend this book to anyone who loves baseball and anyone who likes a good story.

[Carroll · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chris Coste dreamed of playing major-league baseball from the age of seven. But after eleven grueling years in the minors, a spot on a major-league roster still seemed just out of his reach–until that fateful call came from the Philadelphia Phillies in May 2006. At age thirty-three (“going on eighty”), Coste was finally heading to the big time.

The 33-Year-Old Rookie is like a real-life Rocky, an unforgettable and inspirational story of one man’s unwavering pursuit of a lifelong goal. Beginning in a single-parent home in Fargo, North Dakota, and ending behind home plate on the flawless diamond of the Phillies’ Citizens Bank Park–where fans and teammates call him “Chris Clutch” because of his knack for getting timely hits–this intimate account of Coste’s baseball odyssey is a powerful story of determination, perseverance, and passion.

For eleven seasons, Coste hustled, fought, and gritted his way to his breakthrough–and never lost faith in his abilities. Along the way, he gained the affection and admiration of baseball fans from Ottawa and Scranton to various Mexican and Venezuelan cities. Battered by years spent behind a catcher’s mask, and faced with bracing realities–there were bills to pay, and his young daughter was entering first grade–Coste decided to give it one last shot in 2006. But that year, during the Phillies’ major-league spring training, Coste was demoted to the minors at the last minute to make room for a utility outfielder, despite having hit a blistering .463 and earning the trust of the team’s pitchers. Later that season, though, Coste finally got the call-up, and he hit .364 during the Phillies’ furious battle to nail down the final postseason berth.

Coste takes us through the 2006 spring training season–with its pulse-quickening moments and close calls–and into his first season as a major-league catcher with the Phillies. From tense stretch-run games that kept Phillies’ fans on the edge of their seats to moments of intimate personal reflection, Coste’s saga offers baseball aficionados an inside look at a remarkable life and career. In this stirring, wry, and candid look at the life of a professional baseball nomad who never surrendered his dream, we savor the sometimes bittersweet fruits of victory against seemingly insurmountable odds.

[Desiree Koh · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are many things to respect about Chris Coste. First, he slogged and sustained through 11 years in the minors before making it to the big show. Secondly, that he actually wrote this book himself sans ghost writer. That's like lugging your own catcher's gear around rather than leaving it in the dugout for the equipment manager. It's symbolic of the philosophy Coste has applied to his baseball career since he started by tossing tennis balls as a kid.

Which means it's not a well-written book -- but it's not like this guy is Yogi Berra. What it lacks in literary value, it makes up for with heart, which is something I truly believe baseball has over all other major American sports (some may mistake guts for heart in the NHL). In no other sport do you have to be humbled by the minor league process and ordeal and then truly feel your humanity when you stand in the shadows of the greats, like under the Green Monster, for example. I enjoyed this book tremendously because Coste describes every moment like a true baseball fan and aspiring big-leaguer, and you feel like the batting glove stuffed in his back pocket because you're with him every step of the way. The frustrations and heartbreaks are tremendous, and then you realize it's just this one guy -- how many more dreams are out there in the Independent Leagues?

I'd say this book is best appreciated by baseball fans, and contains more information about life in the minor leagues than any casual observer would care to know. But, it'll keep you honest. And maybe you won't be as quick to boo the next time a guy goes o-fer at the plate.

[jeremy · Rating 4 out of 5]

in a time of quick fixes and instant gratification, tales of perseverance and triumph are easily overlooked, but this story exemplifies tenacity at its finest. chris coste knows well the dividends paid by resolve and determination, and his autobiography is a testament to the benevolent power of will and self-confidence.

an all-american in college, coste spent eleven years in the minor leagues (including seasons in the international and mexican pacific leagues), before his debut in a philadelphia phillies uniform at the age of thirty-three, in 2006. despite many setbacks and the normally short shelf life of most professional athletes, coste fervently believed his talent was evident enough that he'd eventually earn the chance to play major league baseball. buoyed by a inconceivably supportive wife, coste strived continually to achieve his dream, surprising many, but never himself.

coste writes engagingly well, with abundant humor and obvious humility. entering the 2008 season, coste remains on the phillies active roster, sporting a modest .309 lifetime batting average. john kruk says it best in his foreword, "chris coste's story inspires everyone, because in an era of spoiled, overcoached athletes, he's a throwback." indeed.

go phils.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this a lot - a Cinderella story about a guy who seems quite likable and well-grounded - his story of his baseball career, starting in college, independent league ball, minor leagues, and finally making it as a major league player with the Phillies in 2006, at the age of 33. He is now on the Nationals roster, although on the disabled list, and I am hoping that he will come back at some point and I can get the book signed at a fanfest event. Aside from the personal story, this book is a good inside look at how the independent leagues and minor leagues work relative to the major league (e.g., star prospects are sent to where they will get to play the most, and the players with the best stats are not necessarily going to be the ones promoted), so I did learn a lot about that and can recommend the book on that basis alone.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recall some months ago when I saw a blurb about this book, about a 33 year old Rookie in the Major Leagues. As I am in this age group, this kind of story intrigued me so I decided to get this book.

Chris's story does not disappoint. The phase that comes to mind when I hear his name is "If at first you don't succeed, try and try again". Here is a man who tried unsuccessfully for 13 years to break into the major leagues from every possible angle and finally when he got called up to the Phillies, makes his presence known. And to top it all off, Mr. Coste is very humble in telling his story, making one want to root for him as they read it to make it into the big show.

If you are looking for a story that inspires and does not preach, then Chris Coste's book is for you.

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coste is a real life version of Roy Hobbs in "the Natural". Inspiring story about living your dreams and never giving up hope, no matter how many doors are closed in your face. Really impressed with the quality of writing from the first time author, full time athlete, as well. I was riveted. At 35 the "old timer's" still impressing philly fans every night he plays too. I find myself fanatically cheering for the guy every time he steps on the field, and angrily muttering "Why isn't coste in tonight!?" every time he's riding the pine. Hoping to read a sequel about his first World Series Championship in Philly!

[William D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This i a hartworming story, a grate story about a 33 year old guy that when he was small dreamed about bcoming a proffesinol baseball player. But one injury cost him that privalage!He had a leuge that never won onces. And when he managed the team they started to win more and actually made it to the world serious. Also after the team started to realized that he throws 98 mhp, the team and him made a promise, that if they make it to the playoffs, he has to start looking to play baseball again. So he ended up trying out for the blue jays, and he made it to the mayor leuges. So this book is a grate book dont miss out on the romance,comedy, and the emotion in this book.

[arterialturns · Rating 4 out of 5]

An inside look at the convoluted path from a childhood dream to reality, and some of the many obstacles towards becoming a major league ball player. This is well-written, and a fast read. It reads almost conversationally, with great insights. This guy's motivation and determination are amazing. I'm biased, but I think that it's a good read for baseball fans and non-fans alike. [Update, 11/2/08: Now Mr. Coste is a world Series ring holder! Happily rooted for him, Jamie Moyer, et al, although Coste wasn't able to do a lot in the series. Still great.]

[Evannn · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like baseball, if you like stories of overcoming long-shot odds, this is a great book. Well-written in a casual style, Chris details his baseball-obsessed youth and the long, long time it took him to finally bust into the major leagues. I learned a lot about how the system works, and how sad and frustrating it can be. You have to be pulling hard for Chris after only a couple chapters. And even knowing what happens in the end doesn't diminish the suspense and joy when his dedication finally pays off.

[Jim Bartruff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having followed his career since he played for Concordia College in Moorhead, MN where I lived while teaching at a rival institution, I won the book in a bet over the outcome of the 2009 World Series. Coste is a good man, a good ball player, a devoted family man and a good writer. He recounts his journey to the big leagues with the wonder and excitement of a kid who cannot believe his good fortune. I'd like to believe that if I made a journey like his that I would remain as earnest, appreciative and as humble! A very enjoyable biography!

[Alexander Fitzgerald · Rating 4 out of 5]

The 33-Year-Old Rookie is good for what it is. It will not win any new converts to the sport.

The audiobook is a delight. Those who complained about Chris Coste's lack of modesty will be persuaded, in my opinion, if they can hear the man in his own words.

The audiobook is like listening to a journeyman ballplayer at a bar. There's a little bit of the athlete's compensatory bravado, some clubhouse-story laughs, and other odd details and pacing.

If that sounds like a motivational night for you, it's a worthwhile read. If you're not a baseball fan, you won't get a ton out of it.

[Chuck Russo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rated a 4 because it's such a great story, and heart-warming on multiple levels. Writing quality is more like a 3, but I highly recommend this book to any Phillies fan, or anyone interested in the climb from high school to college to minor to major leagues. Just a great, fast, fun read about personal drive, perseverance, hard work, strong family & character, and with lots of inside-baseball details, including some funny stories.

[Kyle Hogan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sorry I forgot my book review and read this about two weeks ago:


I liked this book in many ways. First, I like it cause it is about baseball and I play Baseball. Also, the book has the theme that its never to late to fufill your dreams. Although, this book angers me that Chris didn't go to the Mets (haha) and instead was in thwe Phillies farm System. This book is a good read for those who believe in comeback stories and love baseball.

[Timothy E. Goettsch · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a irrational Twins fan just like Chris Coste (Coast) and his family. I am also a Sioux Falls Canaries fan but I did not start following the Canaries until very recently so I missed out on seeing Chris play in Sioux Falls.
Even though I knew the outcome there was the drama of a man reaching for his dreams finally realizing them and having a short but productive career in the Major Leagues.
If you love baseball you will enjoy Chris's story.

Tim Goettsch

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well-written true story of how Chris Coste finally became a major league baseball player after spending 11 years in the minor leagues. It is a love story, both to his family for their constant and never-wavering support, as well as to the game of baseball.

Anyone who roots for the underdog, and is in anyway a sports fan, will enjoy this book.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and found myself tearing up with a lump in my throat several times. Chris Coste describes his career very honestly. He stirred up many emotions in me as I read it - excited, frustrated, elated, etc. Even if you aren't a Phillies fan, if you love baseball, you will find this book very interesting.

[Gabriel Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is great for any fan of baseball. It shows how a real person and the main character Chris persevered through the minors and finally made his way up to the majors. I liked this book a lot because I am a big baseball fan but also because it shows that hard work and dedication goes a long way even in professional sports.

[Dan · Rating 3 out of 5]

While it's bookended by chapters that will primarily appeal to Phillies fans, the bulk of this is great for anyone who feels jaded by baseball's current scandals: a nice story of a guy who just loved playing baseball, no matter where it was - pretty refreshing.

[Gregg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring story about Chris Coste who spent years in the minor leagues before finally breaking through to the big league with the Philadelphia Phillies. Of particular interest to Philadelphia fans, although any baseball enthusiast would enjoy.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not exactly complex reading material, but certainly a quick read that any Phillies fan would appreciate. I love Coste!

[Dan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good easy read. nice warm up for the baseball season.

[JulieK · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fargo boy (eventually) makes the majors. Informally written, but an interesting look inside the life of a minor leaguer.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great baseball book, but a little too much baseball for me. I am adding it to my high school collection though.

[Mason · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this book teaches to never give up on your dreams. Also, I learned about different baseball leagues I've never heard of before. I enjoy baseball so it was a great book to read.

[Rachel Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

How can you not love Chris Coste and his rise to the majors? He is such a humble athlete and this book was telling of that.