Evans: Bettis’ magical night can spark Rockies down the stretch
Aug 16, 2017, 9:27 AM | Updated: 3:12 pm
Every once in a while, something happens that reminds us of how much we love sports.
Between all the endless sports talk, debate shows and highlights, something “real” occurs that just hits right between the eyes — an example of why sports are the greatest reality television out there.
Colorado Rockies starter Chad Bettis and his return to the mound after conquering cancer was one of those moments.
Just him walking out to the mound at Coors Field was a win.
All of us have been touched by the evil of cancer in one form or another. To see someone fight it head on with determination, humor, and humility has been truly inspiring.
Witnessing someone fight hard enough and win to the point where he’s mowing down Major League hitters is even more so.
Then, there’s the baseball side of it.
Something bigger may have happened to the Rockies than just winning an important game in the pursuit of a wild card spot.
Watching manager Bud Black talk with Bettis as he pulled him following seven sparkling innings, it was like a proud father telling his son, “Job well done.”
Then, to watch the heartfelt hugs between Bettis and his teammates, it was clear the Rockies felt they were playing for something bigger than themselves in that game.
I can’t help but think that was a galvanizing moment that puts a team like the Rockies on a wave that just sweeps them into the playoffs.
Plus, during the last couple of weeks, the debate making the rounds is which Rockies pitcher would you want in a one-game, winner-take-all wild card game? Is it Jon Gray with his ace-like stuff? Kyle Freeland, for his ability to raise his performance? German Marquez, who may be the Rockies hottest pitcher?
After what I watched the other night, give me Bettis.
Remember, he won 14 games last year and pitched almost 200 innings. Over his last nine starts at Coors Field, he has an ERA in the low 2s.
Bettis is someone who isn’t afraid of the big moment and will battle his butt off.
Just ask cancer.
