lack of leadership skills. Specifically, he praised Blanco's leadership ability and continues to praise his leadership following his debut catching Felix (and hitting a salami btw). Clearly, Shoppach provided little or no influence over Montero. Criticized for his lack of maturity, Montero appeared more immature this year than last. His lack of seriousness, or intensity, during games contrasts dramatically compared to Zunino and especially Wedge. Although Shoppach's role in Montero's intensity, or lack thereof, was minimal, he obviously didn't affect much change in Montero's demeanor. Watching Montero's happy-go-lucky game-time behavior always made me wonder how he behaved at practice, where most players behave looser anyway. My guess is Wedge seethed with disdain watching Montero and Shoppach workout together. Slightly off subject, I recall Shoppach being on managements bad side in Boston during Valentine's failed tenure. Something about a mutiny in the clubhouse involving text messages and player dissatisfaction with Valentine. Seems I recall Shoppach being in the middle of that dust-up. Bottomline is I do not think Wedge trusted Shoppach to lead and Zunino would benefit more with Blanco's influence than Shoppach's. Just a hunch.