Guest Blogger: Chris Valaika
Hi everyone, this is Chris Valaika coming to you from the Arizona Fall League. A little 
about myself, I am a 23 year old shortstop from Santa Barbara, California. I was born in Santa Monica, moved to Valencia where I spent my childhood. There I was the oldest of 4 boys and a sister. Those were some interesting times growing up with that many people in one house. I then played my high school ball at Hart High School. Where my brother Patrick is currently the shortstop. After high school I was recruited to play at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Where ironically, my brother Matt is currently the shortstop. I guess we are a package deal. After my third year at UCSB I was fortunate enough to be drafted in the 3rd round by the Reds. Let me tell you that was an amazing day. To hear your name called over the internet and know that all the hard work you have put in has payed off and gave you an opportunity to play professional baseball, what a feeling. I am currently finished with my second full season of pro ball now and have played in some pretty amazing facilities such as Dayton and Chattanooga. I look forward to next year where I hope to get a chance to play in Louisville.
mlblogsaflreds1
Hey Chris,
My wife and I were married in Santa Barbara. It’s a great place to live.
I’m glad you’re getting experience all around the infield, and not just at shortstop. You never know where the greatest need might be, as you move up through the system.
We’re all encouraged by the great wealth of talent in the Reds system. It’s been a long time since we had such highly regarded prospects. I hope this translates into a pennant contending team in the near future. Considering what the Rays did this year on a slim budget, we can only hope Walt Jocketty finds a way to make it work for Cincinnati.
Good luck to all you guys.
Dennis
Groton, CT
Nice to hear you guys are enjoying your time in AZ. Playing on a winning team helps I’m sure. I’ve heard reports that you might be better suited for another posistion, have you considered that? The reds could use a left fielder lol! Interesting that your brothers are SS as well,coincedence? or following in your foot steps.
Anyway,keep up the good work all you guys hope to see you in Cincinnati soon.
Also glad to see another reds fan in CT. maybe we could meet someday, that would be fun.
Bob
Oldsaybrook, CT
Chris,
My wife and I enjoyed watching you play in Dayton. We seen you play against the Tennessee Smokies in August 2008 when we went to TN for vacation and got some things signed by you before the game. I’m sure you remember us as we by far have to have the largest memorabilia collection of yours! We cant wait for you to get promoted to Louisville, a little closer of a drive for us! Hope you are doing well and hope to see you at Redsfest this year, do you know if you will be there?
Nate
Dayton, OH
Hi Chris!
As new members of the Reds family, we Mudcats fans are learning all about your team. It helps that you are well-versed in barbecue and already say “Ya’ll”!! We’ll be online watching your success and ready to see you if you are headed to Carolina.
Pat Logan, Wilson NC
Life is a foreign language; all men mispronounce it.
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– Air Jordan