43 2/3… This is a lot more
than a number. As many of you may know
the meaning of this number is the amount of consecutive innings Los Angeles
Dodger pitcher Zach Grenkie has pitched without allowing a run. It’s also a symbol of the recognition Grenkie
is finally receiving.
In 2002 Grenkie was selected by the Kansas
City Royals with the 6th pick in the first round straight out of high
school. In 2006 he took a year off of
baseball due to a social anxiety disorder.
Many people including Grenkie, thought his career would be over. Grenkie was able to overcome his anxiety and
rejoined the Royals in 2007. He won the American
league Cy Young award in 2009.
A huge contract such as
Grenkie’s $20 Million + a year can get in the head of athletes and affect their
ability to play to their potential. It’s
kind of funny how it hasn’t for Grenkie considering his personal obstacles. Nope not Grenkie, he has arguable been the
best pitcher in baseball since signing the deal with the Dodgers in 2013. He is doing all of this as a player who plays
the most mental position in the most mental sport.
Grenkie’s scoreless
innings streak is impressive and he deserves all the credit and recognition he
is receiving. The most impressive part
about it though, is the adversity he has had to fight through on his way to
where he is today. That is what makes
him inspiring.
