Derrick Hall is celebrating 20 years with the Arizona Diamondbacks, leading the team with heart, vision, and relentless drive. Luis “Gonzo” Gonzalez—forever etched in franchise history—remains a daily presence and hometown hero. We caught up with both for a candid chat on D-backs memories, clubhouse vibes, and community pride.
Q: What excites you most about our 2025 D-backs team?
Gonzo: “They have fun, but when it’s game time, they lock in. I’m pumped about Josh Naylor at first. And Corbin Carroll—I'm sure he'll stay hot. Perdomo’s locked in. We also picked up Corbin Burns, a top pitcher. It’s an exciting group.”
Hall: “Corbin Burns—one of the best pitchers in baseball. I’m also excited to see Corbin Carroll’s resurgence. That second half last year was amazing, and spring was great. Our team respects each other, the game, and the community.”
Q: How’s life on the other side of the game?
Gonzo: “I love it. Playing, you’re focused on your own performance. Now, I’ve learned about the business, community, everything. I retired in ’08 and started working here in ’09. I’ve loved every second.”
Q: What are you hoping for this season?
Hall: “That we’re playing in October. Last year, we had a better regular season than the one before when we went to the World Series—but didn’t make the playoffs. I’d be disappointed again if we don’t get there. I love this team. I hope they perform the way we know they can. I cried in my hotel room after we made it back to the World Series in 2023. It meant so much—to the players, their families, everyone. We flew all our employees to Texas for the World Series. That was powerful. The culture we’ve built—it lives in the clubhouse now, too.”
Q: Who were your idols growing up?
Gonzo: “Pete Rose. But really, it was the women in my life—my mom, my grandmother, my aunt. My parents divorced before college, and they held everything together. Later, my college coach became a father figure.”
Q: What was your favorite stadium to play in?
Gonzo: “Wrigley, Fenway, old Yankee Stadium—I love the classics. And I loved being the villain in opposing parks. When fans brought signs saying they hated me? That’s when I knew I was doing something right.”
Q: What’s it like having legends like Gonzo and Randy Johnson in the building?
Hall: “It’s awesome. They’re part of our history. Gonzo, J.J. Putz, Orlando Hudson, Miguel Montero—they’re learning the business side now. Gonzo’s one of my best friends. He’s here every single day.”
Q: What do you two do when you're not at Chase Field?
Hall: “We travel, dine out, and support each other’s families. It’s a great friendship.”
Q: Do you ever wear your own jersey?
Gonzo: (laughing) “Sometimes I’ll say, ‘Nice jersey!’ to someone wearing mine. Most don’t even realize it’s me. My kids think it’s hilarious.”
Q: What do you want your legacy to be?
Gonzo: “Not just the World Series or the walk-off hit. I want to be remembered for how I treat people. I knew I wouldn’t play forever. Now, it’s about giving back—being involved with fans, charities, the community.”
Q: Talk about your walk-up song.
Gonzo: “‘Heavy’ by Collective Soul when I played. Now? Probably something old-school.”
Hall: “If I had a walk-up song, it would be ‘September’ by Earth, Wind & Fire.”
Q: What fan experiences are you most looking forward to as this season continues?
Hall: “Postgame fireworks! We can open the roof again… a huge celebration of Chase Field. Plus, there are many great giveaways—replica jerseys, bobbleheads, and more.”
Q: What’s your go-to meal at Chase Field?
Gonzo: “The meatballs. I’m kind of a plain Jane when it comes to food. But when I was playing? I was a big McDonald’s guy—yeah, I know! Everyone was shocked. I’d eat that before games. But I worked out a lot and stayed consistent. Never had many injuries, just a few shoulder issues.”
Hall: “There’s so much to choose from. I’d probably go with the new kids’ items up at Sandlot Snacks—Mac and Cheese Bites and Little Corn Dog Nuggets. Not the healthiest, but so good! And everyone’s raving about that massive 20-inch sub—half meatball, half chicken parm”
Q: Do you have another 20 years in you?
Gonzo: (smiling) “Oh yeah. I’m a lifer.”
Hall: “Absolutely.”
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