Zach Grenkie

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 6^th 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.