I notice John mentioned Ryal in his "all questions answered" marathon.  The question was something like "Which major leaguer will surprise us all, much like a Josh Hamilton or Casey McGeehee" ... something like that.  John's answer was Rusty Ryal.  A little later he was asked about his big sleeper for this year and the answer was the same.

I'm spending this winter in Arizona, have attended a few Cactus League games, but have missed seeing Arizona.  But today I see that Rusty Ryal was something of a surprise who made the Opening Day club. 

I have looked all over for more information and have found very little ... none on sites or books not written by John.  So here's the question.  Will somebody please tell me about Rusty Ryal and give me a hint as to why he would be so prominently mentioned by John?

Thanks