What we learned: MLB Opening Weekend

Baseball is officially back! Well for most teams that is (Nationals and Mets had their first series postponed due to Covid). Now, it is still extremely early in the season to make any lasting impressions there were a few interesting things to pop up. Whether or not these trends continue, only time will tell. So let’s look at some storylines that came out of this first weekend of baseball.

1. New Season, Same Obstacle

I mentioned above that everyone has started their season except for two teams. The Mets and Nationals haven’t had the pleasure of playing their season openers just yet. Right before the season started the Nationals found out a few players and staff members tested positive for Covid. This prompted the three-game series to be postponed to a later date. There’s no doubt the league is better prepared to deal with Covid than it was last year. That being said this is just a reminder that it can still be problematic if not taken seriously. As of writing today the Mets will play their first game today and the Nationals have the all-clear to play on Tuesday.

2. Boston historically bad start

For the first time since 1948, the Red Sox suffered a sweep in Fenway to start the season. While losing to the Yankees would be the last thing a Boston fan would want it would be understandable. But losing to a Baltimore team that is deep into a rebuild is a bit embarrassing. The Orioles outscored Boston 18-5 over the three games and at no point in time did the Red Sox have the lead. It might be just a slow start for a Boston team that’s eager to surprise people. Then again this could be the beginning of a very long season.

3. Midwest Scuffle

The Cincinnati Reds and St. Louis Cardinals are no strangers to getting into heated disagreements with each other. So it came to no one’s surprise when there was a bench-clearing incident this past weekend. It all started when Nick Castellanos got hit by a pitch thrown by Jake Woodford. Castellanos understandably was upset but took his base. A few batters later Woodford threw a wild pitch and Castellanos ran home from third. Castellanos would score on the play, but not before Woodford fell on him trying to apply the tag. Castellanos immediately got up, stood over Woodford, and yelled at him. This act incensed the Cardinals who quickly came running to defend their pitcher. Benches immediately cleared and a pushing match followed. The first series of the season and already bad blood is being formed. It will be interesting to monitor future matchups this season.

4. Ohtani teases Sunday night

For about 5 innings on Sunday night baseball was the Ohtani show. The two-way player fired 4 innings of scoreless baseball and 7 strikeouts. As a hitter, he launched a no-doubter that awoke the crowd from their slumber. However, things unraveled in the fifth inning as he was unable to hold onto a 3-0 lead. Chicago tied the game up at 3 knocking Ohtani out of the game and leaving a sour taste in his mouth. That being said this performance was just a tease of what could potentially happen this season. Among all the storylines this season Ohtani having a full season as a two-way player is something I’ll be keeping my eyes on.

5. Three remain left unscathed

Now going a whole baseball season undefeated will never happen. However, it is fun to see how long teams can go without losing a game. After this weekend of games, only three (five if you count the Nationals and Mets) emerged unbeaten. The Astros still reeling from their cheating scandal handled the Oakland A’s in four games. Baltimore went up to Fenway and beat the brakes off the Red Sox. Last but not least, the Phillies swept the Braves in impressive fashion. Who will end up being the last team undefeated? Your guess is as good as mine.