Mike Mayers realised a dream on Monday, debuting for the St Louis Cardinals in a Major League Baseball game.
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Unfortunately, the dream rapidly became a nightmare.
Taking the mound for one of the most storied professional sports organisations in America on Sunday Night Baseball – the most-watched baseball game of the week – Mayers gave up a single, an infield hit, and then a walk to load the bases.
Then this happened.
It was even harder to watch for his family.
Mike Mayers grandma reacting to Adrian Gonzalez hitting a grand slam for the Dodgers on the 4th batter of the game pic.twitter.com/8sW8n6f52q
— Ryan Walton (@RyanWaltonSBN) July 25, 2016
In 1 1/3 innings, Mayers allowed nine runs on eight hits, walking two and striking out one. Statistically, it's the worst debut ever for a pitcher.
Even if your baseball knowledge extends no further than the Sandlot Kids, that’s plainly bad.
Mayers became the first player to allow nine or more earned runs in fewer than two innings during a debut since earned runs became a stat in 1912, according to Elias Sports Bureau.
“It’s the same game — 60 feet, 6 inches (distance from pitching mound to home plate),” Mayers told USA Today.
“I felt like I told myself that over and over but as far as when you get out there it’s a totally different ballgame.
“I felt like I kind of started to let my emotions get to me. The game kind of sped up after those first two hits.”
The 24-year-old was sent back down to AAA Memphis – the highest level of the Minor Leagues – immediately after the game.
The worst part? The Cardinals organisation is stacked. Mayers got the start through a strange twist of fate where enforced rest, injuries and rain delays left Mayers the best option available.
There’s a strong chance that he could never pitch again in the big leagues. Still, it’s one more than we will.
Baseball is a cruel, merciless game.
