Gene "Shawn" Traylor
Interview conducted on 1/6/2016
Who are you playing with in 2017?
Playtime Family (AZ)
2017 Free Agent – genetraylor5211@gmail.com or text/call (602) 689-3381
What positions do you play and what is your best position?
I play 1B, C, P. My best position is 1B.
Who is the best softball player you have ever seen play?
I love watching all of the Major players, but my most favorite player is Filip Washington. His background, work ethic and student of the game is inspiring for me personally. My dream is to be at the level he is at at beyond.
Why do you like the game of softball?
I enjoy the fast paced & mental aspect of the game. So many turning points, choices & decisions to make for your team. The game can definitely make or break anyone–at anytime.
Who is the best up and coming player in softball and why?
I believe Mike Nino (founder of PLAYTIME FAMILY) is a rising athlete and star. I am excited to watch him this year and beyond!
What is your nickname in softball and how did you get it?
"Tractor Traylor" because of my height size (Ha-Ha).
What is your height and weight?
6'3 295 lbs
Where do you call home?
Phoenix, AZ
What's your favorite way to spend an off weekend?
I love grilling and cooking for friends and family. I love spending time outside and taking BP with teammates.
What do you do for a living?
I work for major banking firm performing IT/Tech Support services.
Did you play sports in High School / College / Pro?
Yes, I played football & baseball all 4 years in high school & 1 year in college.
How did you get your start in softball and how did you get to the upper level?
I was given an opportunity by many folks, but my roots will begin with an opportunity extended from a softball brother Jason Bryley (rest in paradise brother) who responded to my request from craigslist two years ago and invited me out to play. From that point, Adrian Corona with American Warriors/Berserk gave me an opportunity as well and from there on I continued to climb and reach for success and still going.
What was the most surprising difference between Conference play and non-Conference play when you made the jump?
No difference. As long as you have fun and respect others it won't feel like a competition. It is just like riding a bike.
Is there a player that you would compare your game to?
I will still continue to say Chris Larsen. I had an opportunity to meet him last year in Portland, OR for the Border Battle Series. He is a nice smooth swing and grip that is almost similar to mine. I haven't forgot about our BP session brother (Ha-Ha)!
What would you say is your career highlight to this point? Maybe one play or game that sticks out to you in particular?
Played in a private tournament in Douglas, AZ last year and our team was down by two points, with two men on base top of 7th with 1 out. I hit a HR and we won the game by one point to advance to semi-finals. It was a great feeling.
In your career was there a single person (player/manager/coach) who had the most significant impact on your approach to the game? Why?
Again, I will continue to give praise and thanks to Mike Nino & Filip Washington for continuing to believe in me and help me get to where I need to go. When opportunity comes knocking—take it and run. Best mentors and coaches around.
What advice can you give a young player trying to break into the upper level?
Be humble, be receptive to feedback, listen to the coach or a veteran, work hard and never give up!
What type of batting grip do you use and what ounce bat?
Full overlap grip w/pinky at the bottom of knob. Generally stick with 26-27 oz bats balanced or end loaded bats.
What do you do in the offseason to prepare for the next softball season?
Eat clean, train dirty.
What is your favorite sports team and your favorite sport other than softball?
I am a hybrid between my native AZ Cardinals & my father's team the Pittsburgh Steelers. I love watching football.
Do you have any superstitions and if so, what are they?
I pray in with my team, and pray out. That's about it.
What would be your "at bat" music selection?
Wicked-Future
New Level-A$AP Ferg
What is the best improvement upper level softball could make?
Well, they just did with those nice new fields in Florida. Can't wait to go there and check it out!
What is your favorite non-World tournament and why?
I enjoyed running with my Playtime Family in New Mexico for the Whole Enchilada last year. Three (3) days of madness and little sleep. All worth it!
What is the best softball field/complex you have played at and why?
I love playing at any Big League Dream complex in the U.S. It is very clean and managed well.
Where is the best place to eat on the road after a game?
Any place with good wings, burgers and brews.
What is the funniest thing you have ever seen on a softball field?
Halloween Tournaments & Costumes!
Tell us something about you that most would never know about you?
in 2011, I played 2 years of Indoor Football for a team called Arizona Adrenaline from Prescott Valley, AZ who is no longer together. I had an NFL tryout in 2012, in LA & it was the most brutal and humbling opportunity that I have ever had thus far. Those men earn their paychecks.
What was your favorite sports related gift you have ever given or received?
Anything free (Ha-ha) bats, clothes, hats, gloves etc.
