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Burt Hooton’s Spanish has made him an invaluable asset

Twice per day during a typical home game, Burt Hooton walks out of the first-base dugout in Fort Wayne, Indiana, towards the on-field bullpen nestled just inside foul territory. On days where the Tin Caps are wearing their home green jerseys, his sun-faded green hat appears less vibrant. The hue represents experience more than a lack of concern for matching of colors.

Hooton is almost 70 years old. He’s clean shaven with bright blue eyes, often hidden by thin-framed glasses that darken with the summer sun. His speech is slow and direct, with an accent consistent with his South Texas roots.