Everybody loves an MLB pitcher with an over-the-top delivery who can reach 100 mph.
The side-armer who can barely touch the high-80s won’t get too much attention, though.
But baseball is a beautiful game, and it provides a platform and an opportunity for everyone as long as he can consistently get outs, no matter how quirky or odd he might be.
Enter Darren O’Day.
The 40-year-old reliever announced on Monday that he is hanging up his cleats after a fruitful 15-year career.
“It’s been a wild ride that I never thought I’d get to experience, but it’s finally time to hang ‘em up,” he tweeted with a long letter to thank everybody involved in his journey from his wife, teammates, and coaches.
He also remembered late MLB pitcher Nick Adenhart.
It’s been a wild ride that I never thought I’d get to experience, but it’s finally time to hang ‘em up. pic.twitter.com/CewsXhgBYz
— Darren O'Day (@DODay56) January 30, 2023
He knew that the odds were against him, but tried anyway.
Now, he can proudly say that he retired with an incredible 2.59 ERA, which is amazing even for a reliever.
He made the 2015 All-Star team and had his best years with the Baltimore Orioles.
He made his debut with the Los Angeles Angels and also played with the New York Mets, the New York Yankees, the Atlanta Braves, and the Texas Rangers.
He said it himself: he was a lightly recruited high school player, a college walk-on, an undrafted free agent, and a non-prospect.
That may sound like a perennial minor leaguer, but no: O’Day was actually one of MLB’s best and most reliable relievers for almost a decade.
He will be missed, especially by Orioles fans.
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