You know you have been to a lot of ball games when a player recognizes you before you recognize them.
It’s still reasonably nice, light after work, and it wasn’t raining. We decided to take a neighborhood walk. Not long, like a weekend walk, but just stretch of the legs before dinner.
Carl and I had gone about 2 blocks and turned the corner. There was a guy mowing the parking strip, and as we passed, he said, “Do I know you?”
Carl said, “Do you play baseball? I’ve been playing in the senior league for a long time.” This is often the source of acquaintances.
The man replied, “No, but I played for the Mariners from 2006 to 2009.” He then introduced himself as Jarrod Washburn. A major league pitcher for 11 years, including his stint with the Ms.
He was mowing the lawn of the rental house where his daughter and her roommate, the daughter of another big-leaguer, Vince Coleman, were living. They both are on the UW track team.
Consistent presence over several years apparently gets you noticed. I mean, our seats are in the outfield, and he’s a pitcher. But the pitchers did spend time shagging balls during batting practice. At least back when they took batting practice while fans were allowed in.
Just kind of funny. He did ask if it was a good neighborhood…
Raincharm's Weblog 
September 17, 2024 at 9:18 am |
Wow, that’s amazing! It’s a small world indeed.
September 17, 2024 at 6:29 pm |
The more I think about it, yes – small world, and what did Carl do that made him so memorable?
September 18, 2024 at 4:58 am |
He wore a fez to the games, he caught BP balls, he talked to the players, he appeared on several highlight reels, etc. Not to mention that he is a great fan of the game!
September 18, 2024 at 6:53 am |
The Fez was the obvious thought, but it didn’t show up until a few years after Washburn was gone.