Dear Baseball,

Sometimes, I sit and think about all of the wonderful memories I’ve made with you.

During my time playing, I got to meet some of the most fantastic people whom I still call my best friends. You gave me lifetime bonds that have formed me into the man I am today.

During my 15 years of competing, I was tested with many challenges along the way. From a tragic knee injury that almost took my ability to walk, to countless shoulder surgeries. From unbelievable come-from-behind walk-off victories, to losing a rivalry game in extra innings.

Unbeknownst to me at the time, you, the game of baseball, were teaching me about life and overcoming adversity, all while allowing me to live out my dreams. 

At first, I thought you were just a game, but more and more, the way I live each and every day gives me an appreciation for the lifestyle of unscripted excellence you provided.

There is no clock in this game because baseball is timeless. You are loved by many people, old and young alike, but baseball’s true meaning is understood by only a select few.

My love for you (baseball) brought me closer to my grandmas; they both absolutely love watching the Mariners (My Oh My). It allowed me to bond with my father while having a game of catch and seeing his “awesome non-breaking slider.”

Playing a version of your game in the backyard with my brothers until it got too dark to see anymore, and then playing a little longer. You watched my mother light up in the stands as I roped a stand-up double in my last game ever. From aunts and uncles to my nieces and nephews. From in-laws to outlaws, you have been a tremendous source of connection for me to so many.

You helped me meet the love of my life, who, inexplicably, is a Cardinals fan but still gave this Yankees fan a chance, all because we both love you (baseball). 

I will always look back on my 15 years of playing with a tremendous fondness for the game, its nuisances, unwritten rules, teammates, and lessons learned along the way. You gave me the seven years I spent coaching some of the finest young men I have ever known, imparting every bit of knowledge I had about life, being a good person, and your intricacies.

Finally, for the last five years, I have been fortunate enough to cover college baseball just when I thought you were done with me. I love getting to connect with fans, coaches, parents, and players every day, all talking about you. Each of them sharing stories eerily similar to mine.

While we all take our cleats off one last time, I don’t think I will ever be able to pay you (baseball) back for everything you’ve given me, and all I can simply say is thank you.

Thank you for giving me something to hold onto forever and allowing me to imprint on the next generation. Thank you for giving me the passion of fandom and comradely, heartbreaks and elation. Thank you for never asking me for anything in return, while graciously accepting all I have to offer. Thank you for all the years in the past and all those I have yet to give to you.

You’ll never understand how much you have changed my life for the better. Thank you, Baseball!