Just in case you wonder about the types of players who show up at professional independent minor league tryouts, here is a rare – but unique – story:
Obviously, this is not the norm. Nonetheless this is what differentiates some independent baseball teams from others. The Saints have a history of giving non-traditional players a look in order to gain some publicity.
The takeaway for you is that when these types of occasions happen, you want to be articulate. This is because the press/media may interview you as one of the other players at the tryout. Be sure and thank the team and the team’s manager + coaches for the opportunity to tryout and be sure to say something complimentary about any non-traditional player at the tryout.
Some players have had trouble adjusting when they played with a woman on their team. Yes, one has pitched in the independent leagues for the last few years. Unlike college or the affiliated Minor Leagues, being on an independent team means that you must perform well and win. This is because the team gets no financial support unlike an affiliated Minor League team, and the team needs to survive financially first and foremost. Whether you like it or not, you occasionally may play with (or against) a non-traditional player. Be professional about it and just add it to your list of funny stories to share after you retire!