Prior To Cincinnati
In a sport where a position player can actually get better with age, former Chicago Cubs hurler Mark Prior is given a second chance at the majors by signing a minor league contract with the Cincinnati Reds.
At 32 years old, Prior should have been the Stephen Strasburg but a line drive to his elbow and a torn Achilles in 2004 and 05 respectively took Prior out of action. He’s been out of the game since 2006.
He was drafted 2nd overall by the Cubs in the 2001 draft and was considered by many to be, “the One” that’ll get the Cubs to the Promised Land. However, this is a game and nothing is certain. They came close in 2003, but we know what happened and I won’t mention names out of respect to other Cubs fans. Even though I just don’t see what the fuss was about?
I’m glad that Mark Prior is getting his second chance. When he was with the Cubs, he went 18-6 in 30 starts with a 2.43 ERA not bad numbers at all.
Maybe Mark Prior should call up RA Dickey for tips on getting back in the game. Perhaps Mr. Prior can become that beloved,”Phenom” again. Even if it’s for a rival.
“Is this heaven? No, it’s Cincinnati”
Wow, I love the game.
Play Ball!
—Mark
The Cub Den
I’d love to see Prior have a shot at a last great season or two in the bigs. His story is just too full of “what if…?” otherwise. But that is, of course, the case for a lot of ball players so whatever happens I just hope it’s the thing he needs to make peace with his own career.
– Kristen
Oh, I know! Who knows, he might turn into another RA Dickey. No one should end a career the way it happened to him. I think he still has the tools. It’s a shame though he went to a rival.
Two words may have saved him: pitch count. I think Dusty Baker may have a bit of a guilt complex. I’d love to see him up the Cinci, but playing with the Bats at Louisville Slugger Field wouldn’t be a bad deal, either.
-Mike
Yeah, I think he’ll be fine. perhaps that was a lesson learned when the Nationals pulled Strasburg to protect him. These Phenoms have got to be protected.