Sean Johnson is one of many former Shockers who succeeded in professional baseball after their time at Eck Stadium. None rose higher in the front-office ranks than Johnson, who was promoted to assistant general manager of the Minnesota Twins in January.

“I’ve always loved working for this organization from the day I started,” he said. “I’m around a lot of tremendous people who have poured into me. I’m at that time in my career now when I’m trying to pay that forward.”

Johnson started with the Twins in 2002 as an area scout and was previously vice president of amateur scouting, where he led the club’s work in the player draft. He played catcher at Wichita State from 1996-98 and served as the team’s director of operations from 2000-2001.

“I really treasure my time at Wichita State,” he said. “That was one of the best days of my life, being able to come to a baseball office every day and work with legendary coaches and awesome players. I knew I wanted to be in baseball once I got into that role.”

Johnson’s advice for college baseball players is to appreciate the experience. Pro baseball is a different environment.

“My group that I played with (at Wichita State) – it was the best time of our lives,” he said. “You never have that camaraderie again. Don’t ignore the opportunity you have. Don’t skate through workouts or in the weight room. Give it the very best you can, otherwise I think you look back with regret.”

Listen to more from Sean Johnson on the Roundhouse podcast