In retrospect of Monday's Texas Rangers Home Opener one can certainly argue that it was absolutely picture perfect. Although a little on the chilly side, the skies were sunny, the dogs were hot, the beer was cold and the Rangers won, 9 -1. Sounds perfect wouldn't you say?

Not!

The Rangers went to all of the trouble of inviting former President George Bush to toss the games ceremonial first pitch. Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton was told just prior to the event that he would be on the receiving end of the memorable toss.

The time has finally arrived, Bush heads to the pitcher's mound, he takes delivery of the ball from team President Nolan Ryan and begins to get a feel for the ball.

Meanwhile, Josh Hamilton makes his way to home plate and positions himself for the big pitch. Everything is looking good as the long line of photographer's, yours truly included, wait in anticipation of the throw. I'm thinking this is certainly going to be a nice photo opportunity and keepsake for President Bush as well as Hamilton.

Not!

What should have been a once in a life time memorable moment for President Bush as well as Hamilton was anything but. Apparently the Rangers 6'8", 300 pound, white tail team mascot decided he would line up behind Hamilton and play umpire. In my opinion this clown (horse in this case) ruined the moment. Did I fail to mention that due to all of his horsing around my view of Hamilton is now non-existent. From my vantage point Bush starts his wind up and heaves a strike toward home plate, apparently to a horse because Hamilton can't be seen.

And if that wasn't enough, after making the catch Hamilton sprints to the mound to offer a handshake to the former President. Guess what? You got it...there he was again, # 72 waging that tail, right in the middle of things.

I suppose after all is said and done, he's one lucky horse. The secret service team guarding the president could have taken him out to pasture.

4 Comments

david marcus said:

Arnold, completely agree with you. To me, a mascot should complement the action, not take away from it. "Rangers Captain" has always been a monstrosity, in my book. Too scary to entertain children...too big and goofy to be a capable rallying machine.

Put him out to pasture...absolutely.

April 7, 2009 5:21 PM

hookem said:

Right on, Arnold! There is no need for this overgrown equine to be running around The Ballpark, much less calling balls and strikes on a first pitch.

When I first heard of the Rangers bringing him on board, I hated the idea. Monday just reinforced my feelings.

In my opinion, Bernie Brewer, the Swinging Friar, and the Phillie Phanatic are the only mascots that should be allowed anywhere near a MLB field.

April 8, 2009 1:56 AM

Prick Chaney said:

Grow up people, it's a freakin baseball being thrown by our defunct president.
I think the horse was hilarious.
This is after all FUN and GAME right?

April 8, 2009 10:10 AM

George W said:

Nice comment P Chaney,your first name fits you perfect

April 8, 2009 11:17 AM

Leave a comment

Name:

Email:

URL:  

Remember personal info?

Captcha:

Type the characters you see in the picture above.