Cole Ragans, a promising MLB prospect, kicked off his AL Division Series in a unique way. The left-hander from the Royals decided to take a leisurely walk to Central Park from his team’s midtown Manhattan hotel before the big game against the New York Yankees. He found a grassy spot at the Heckscher Ballfields in Central Park, where he played catch with his teammate, Sam Long, for about 11 minutes. This unexpected warm-up session in the iconic park added a touch of charm to Ragans’ routine.
The following day, Ragans found himself at Yankee Stadium, ready to face the Yankees on the mound. Despite some initial control issues, he managed to hold his own, allowing just one run over four innings in the Royals’ 4-2 victory over the Yankees, leveling the AL Division Series at one game apiece. Ragans struck out five batters and walked four, showcasing both his potential and room for growth as a pitcher.
Ragans’ journey to the Major Leagues has been an intriguing one. After being primarily a reliever with the Texas Rangers, he was traded to the Kansas City Royals in a deal for Aroldis Chapman. The Royals saw potential in Ragans as a starter and quickly converted him into one. His performance throughout the season solidified his place in the rotation, culminating in an impressive 11-9 record with a 3.14 ERA in 32 starts.
As a first-time All-Star at 26, Ragans demonstrated his prowess on the field, striking out an impressive 223 batters in 186 1/3 innings. His stellar performance continued into the playoffs, where he delivered a standout performance against the Baltimore Orioles in the Wild Card Series opener. Despite battling leg cramps, Ragans managed to pitch six solid innings of four-hit ball, helping the Royals secure a 1-0 victory.
Ragans’ decision to warm up in Central Park before the crucial game against the Yankees speaks to his unconventional approach to preparation. Royals manager Matt Quatraro supported Ragans’ choice to utilize the serene surroundings of Central Park for his pre-game routine. This glimpse into Ragans’ off-field rituals sheds light on the dedication and focus required to succeed at the highest level of professional baseball.
The brief escape to Central Park provided Ragans with a moment of tranquility amidst the intensity of playoff baseball. His ability to find balance between the demands of the game and personal rituals highlights the human side of professional athletes. As Ragans continues to evolve as a pitcher, his unique journey and individuality set him apart in the competitive world of Major League Baseball.
