Eureka's Ben Zobrist is making the most of his opportunity to live out a dream.
After bouncing back and forth between the major and minor leagues the first 2 1/2 years of his career he finds himself one step away from the World Series.

"I think if you taste getting sent down at any point in your career it's kind of a let down," said Zobrist, who hit .253 with 12 homers in 198 regular-season at bats for the Rays. "But then you come back up and you're part of a postseason team like this. A special team like this Rays team this year it's definitely the highlight of my career so far."

Since being recalled in early August Zobrist has played all three outfield positions, shortstop, second base and even a game at third. It's that versatility that's made him a valuable player for manager Joe Maddon.

"He's very valuable." said Maddon. "That position there that he's able to fulfill really permits you a lot of times to carry an extra pitcher because he can play so many different positions. He's a fine young man and he's continued to get better and he's going to be very good at this for several years to come."

Being able to play multiple positions has helped Zobrist to stay in the majors. Its also helped the Rays get the the League Championship Series.

"I'm just trying to be flexible I'm just trying to be willing to do whatever Joe asks me to do. Whatever is best for the team. I feel like this year it's worked out well. I've seen a lot of different positions and a lot of different looks. I'm just glad to be a part of it and like I said anyway I can be a part of this team and help the team win I'm just happy to do it."

Ben had the biggest week of his life the final week of the regular season. He hit .455 with 4 homeruns and 7 RBI, winning the American League Player of the week award. His success this season has even earned him a nickname.

"I guess there's a rapper named Gorilla–zo and some guys thought it would be funny to start calling me that when I started hitting balls out of the park during batting practice. It went from Go–rilla to Zo–rilla, as Joe changed it with a "Z" at the beginning so I'm just happy to be called anything by the manager. So I guess Zo–rilla is fine for me.