Lightening the load: Kyle Fernandes

Kyle Fernandes (Photo Jason Gendron)

Some pitchers are blessed with a great curve ball. Others can throw fastballs in the high 90's. Kyle Fernandes has another gift: He can grow a mustache like no one else.

"As you'll see, my facial hair tends to grow pretty quick," said Fernandes when the first mention of his 'stache was mentioned.

Fernandes, the Westport, Massachusetts native, isn't going to be listed high on Baseball America's prospect lists. You won't hear sports talk radio saying that "A healthy Kyle Fernandes will save this bullpen."The lefty reliever still plays an important role in this organization, that of experienced minor league veteran and clubhouse clown.

"I think that's why they keep me around," said Fernandes about his clubhouse antics, only half-jokingly. "Being a clubhouse guy is my first job."

Everyone has worked with people who weren't alot of fun, but most of use don't have to travel on long bus rides with them or room with them on the road. Kevin Millar's place in Red Sox lore will be made forever due to his role as clubhouse guy. In the minors, when guys aren't making major league-type and some guys are finding out they might have to do other things with their life other than play baseball for a living, it's even more important to have some one to lighten the load.

"I try to talk to everyone (in the clubhouse)," said Fernandes. "I don't care. It's a long season, and it's not as long when everyone is having fun."

There are alot of things that can be done to ease the tension, whether it's putting together talent shows, roasting the manager and minor league catching instructor, or finding ways to keep warm in the bullpen.

"There aren't any heaters (out in the pen), so we're stuck doing one thing out in the bullpen, and that's cuddling," laughed Fernandes. "Sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do."

During his interview, he was missing a meeting on the field with the rest of his teammates. This seems to be something he's used to.

"I'm the media guy, I'll do videos, maybe try to get into acting said Fernandes. "I know I'm probably still here for the things I do in the clubhouse. It's still fun, and if ever stops being fun, I'll have to do something else."

If all else fails, he could be a radio guy. Or a professional mustache grower.