By: Robb Buzzini
As I sit here during the Opening week of the 2016 Major League baseball season I realize that baseball means to me that there is always a tomorrow. There is always another pitch, another at bat, another chance in the field, another start, a new beginning, always a chance at redemption.
I look at the Kansas City Royals last year and I not only see a team that won the 2015 World Series, but a team that was 90 feet away from possibly being the 2014 World Champions. How gratifying for them and there fan base to have the ultimate heartbreak in baseball, a game 7 World Series loss, and then to come back the following season and win the only thing. It had to make it ten times sweeter.
My beloved San Francisco Giants were bit hard by the injury bug last year. There were more than a couple players who had roller coaster seasons. That being said, they weren’t eliminated from the playoff race until the final week of the season.
With a healthy Hunter Pence and Joe Panik back in the lineup, and the additions of Johnny Cueto and Jeff Samardjiza (if you’re not a Giants fan I’m sure you’re shaking your head at that one) I can’t help but feel excited about the possibilities that lie ahead in 2016. And hey, it’s an even year.
I’m sure I’ll have my fair share of hat throws and couch slaps and temper tantrums along the way, after all even if the Giants win 100 games they still have to lose 62. BUT, I can’t wait to take that ride as a fan and see where the season takes them. I know that even after a tough loss there is always a tomorrow in this game, and as a fan I can’t wait to wake up each morning and see what that day will bring. If I get my wish it will be a boat load of walks and knocks for the hitters, some fastballs on the black and 12 to 6 lock ups for the pitchers, and some cherry hop 6-4-3 double plays for the infielders.
Some people think the season is too long, but I guess I’m a purist because I think it’s great the way it is now. Or maybe, I just like the idea of more tomorrows?