The Unique Journey of MLB Debutantes in the COVID-19 Era

Debuting in the major leagues is a dream come true for any young baseball player. It’s the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication to the sport they love. However, for the 212 players who made their MLB debuts during the 2020 season, the experience was unlike anything they could have ever imagined.

Garrett Crochet, Tanner Houck, and Tarik Skubal were among the many players who took their first steps onto a major league field in front of empty stadiums. The usual fanfare and excitement that come with a debut were replaced by artificial crowd noise pumped through stadium speakers.

Reflecting on his debut, Crochet, a Chicago White Sox left-hander, said, “All the buildup and all the hard work and everything, it was like I expected a little more… I just felt like I was missing out.” Skubal, a 17-game winner for the Detroit Tigers, shared a similar sentiment, noting that debuting in the COVID-19 era wasn’t the ideal scenario.

Fast forward to the present, and the tables have turned for these players. Skubal, Crochet, and Boston’s Tanner Houck have all become first-time All-Stars, showcasing their talent on the biggest stage in baseball. They are joined by other pandemic debutantes who have made significant impacts in the league.

Players like William Contreras, who won a World Series championship with the Atlanta Braves in 2021, have gone on to achieve greater success in the years following their debuts. Contreras is now part of a Brewers team competing for a playoff spot, with fans cheering them on every step of the way.

For some, the road to stardom was cut short. Brandon Bailey, who made his debut in 2020, never returned to the majors after a career-ending injury. Despite the setbacks, Bailey now finds fulfillment as a pitching coach in the Orioles organization.

Reflecting on his journey, Ryan Mountcastle, the Baltimore Orioles first baseman, said, “The fans bring a different aspect to the game…There’s nothing like a packed stadium going wild.” These sentiments were echoed by many players who experienced the stark contrast between playing in empty stadiums and in front of roaring crowds.

As the MLB continues to thrive and evolve, the Class of 2020 remains a testament to the resilience and determination of baseball players. While their debuts may have been unconventional, the lessons learned and the experiences gained have shaped them into the formidable athletes they are today.

As we celebrate the achievements of these players, let us also remember the challenges they overcame and the journey that brought them to where they are now. The Class of 2020 may have had a unique start to their careers, but their impact on the game will be felt for years to come.

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb