The baseball season is officially underway, bringing with it plenty of stories throughout MLB. The highlight of opening day was a shutout from the Los Angeles Dodger’s ace, Clayton Kershaw. On top of that, he became the second pitcher in history to hit a homerun and pitch a shutout on opening day. The Dodgers were locked in a 0-0 tie with the San Francisco Giants until the 8th inning, when Kershaw broke it open.
Washington Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper also cemented his place in history at just 20 years and 167 days old by becoming the youngest player ever to hit two home runs in the season opener.
Star Nationals pitcher Steven Strasburg also looked very solid in his season debut, going seven innings. This is the longest outing he has had since the middle of last season. He allowed 0 earned runs. His pitch count was being monitored, but he made each one count.
Finally, after missing much of last season due to severe injuries, the Philadelphia Phillies’ second baseman, Chase Utley, made a splash by hitting a homerun and a triple and driving in 3 runs. He looked much more like the Chase Utley of old, an exceptionally gifted offensive and defensive player capable of stealing, fielding, and hitting the long ball.
As the season progresses, we can expect to continue seeing dazzling highlights. We can only hope that players stay safe and protect themselves so as to enjoy long, productive, and entertaining careers!
*Scientists have no conclusive evidence as to whether or how the reduction of g forces during impacts reduces the number or degree of concussions and head injuries. GelDefenderTM products provide supplemental padding as well as cooling and comfort benefits when used with helmets and caps. Participants in activities in which head impacts can occur should always use tested and approved helmets for protection. However, no helmet or supplemental padding can protect the user from all serious head or neck injuries that can result from impacts.
