USA Today baseball writer Bob Nightengale wrote an interesting story today on former Cardinals slugger Mark McGwire, who has basically been absent from the game since he retired in 2001.

At least publicly. Privately, McGwire has worked with a few major-leaguers and college hitters, including Florida State OF Jack Rye. McGwire lives in the same Southern California neighborhood as Rye, who recently completed his senior season.

Rye told the newspaper that McGwire was one of the first to text message him when he was drafted in the 13th round by the Yankees last month in the MLB draft.

“If I make it’’ to the big leagues, Rye said, “Mark will be a big reason why. He’s helped me so much. He took me under his wing and helped me become the player I am.’’

Rye finished his collegiate career with a .354 average, including hitting .371 with seven homers and 52 RBIs this season. Rye is also considered an excellent defensive right fielder.