Brother Heiberger has been working with Local 17 for some time, but there’s something you may not know about his past before joining 17. He previously played professional baseball in the minor league system before deciding to become an insulator. He took some time to answer a few questions about his baseball past and share his story with us.
What team did you play for?
I was drafted by Boston Red Sox in June of 1998 but decided to go to school first. I went to Parkland College for two years then spent one year at Illinois State University playing baseball. After that year, I ended up signing as a free agent contract with the Arizona diamondbacks. I was sent to Missoula Montana. I stayed there for about a month before getting called up to South Bend Silverhawks. I played there for a few years. I managed to make it to AAA in Tucson Arizona for a few games then was released.
How long was your professional baseball career?
I played professionally for about 5 years. I had a short stint in independent ball.
Who did you play with that made the majors?
I played with and against some great players that went on to the major leagues. Joe Mauer, Scott Harriston, Casey Daigle, Miguel Cabrera, Prince Fielder, Dan Uggla, and many more.
What was the highlight of your career in baseball?
My best moment in baseball was in 2002, the year after Arizona won the world series, the Diamondbacks came to play our Silverhawks team in a game. So playing against Mark Grace and Luis Gonzalez was exciting. I even saw Robin Yount catch an inning. But we played that game to an absolute full house in South Bend. Standing room only. I got the win pitching in that game. It was great meeting the team after the game. (see the box score). Also, I meet and the coaches. I have great memories that I cherish. This was all before cell phones so I don’t really have any connections with guys anymore which is sad because they were all fun to be around.
What habits have you kept in your life that come from your baseball experience?
I don’t really have any habits I kept from baseball. I just now instill what I have learned on to my daughter Hannah and son Hudson.
How does it feel to play in front of me tech crowd?
I was exhilarating playing in front of large crowds but after time you just become so tunnel visioned that you tune that out and do your job.
How did your life change because of your experience in baseball?
After baseball I can say it was a hard game to watch for the first few years because I always thought I could still compete but over time I started coaching my kids and that kind of scratched the itch. Now, I don’t think there isn’t a weekend where I’m not at a ballpark or gym enjoying watching or coaching my kids. My beautiful wife Jessica and I are just a taxi service for them every day of the week and I wouldn’t change that.
Brother Heiberger is passing his playing experience and love of the game on to his wife and kids. Heath proves that his past didn’t just make him a winner on the field, but also a winner with his family. Local 17 tips its hat to you — thanks for sharing your story!
