Travis Snider has never really lived up to the potential people thought he had when he was a first round pick back in 2006, but maybe he just needs to be put in the right role. Like, say, the guy you bring in to strike out dangerous lefties? That’s what the Pirates’ outfielder did last night when, thanks to rain delays and game which was 9-3 in favor of the opposition to start the ninth, Snider was called on to pitch to the Reds.
He was no great shakes, that’s for sure. He retired Skip Schumaker on a groundout, but then walked the next two hitters, gave up an RBI double and then gave up another run on a fielder’s choice. That brought up Joey Votto, with the speedy Billy Hamilton on base. And Snider did what everyone expected him to do: struck out one of baseball’s best, most patient hitters swinging.
Go check it out here. Then remind yourself that anything is possible.