27 days left ’til Opening Day: Vladimir Guerrero

There are 27 days left until that best day of the year, MLB’s Opening Day.

27 is the number Vladimir Guerrero wears. Vlad of course, has become a hero to Angel fans over the last few years because of his excellent hitting and style of play.

Is the pitch in the dirt? Vlad can hit it.
Is the pitch above his head? Vlad can hit it.
Is the pitch an intentional ball? Vlad can hit it.

Vlad’s been by far the Angels’ best hitter since he joined the club in 2004, averaging 34 home runs and 116 RBI a season. While the 2002 World Series was a turning point of the franchise, it was the arrival of Vlad in 2004 that helped ensure that the 2002 success wasn’t a fluke. Vlad has led the Angels to three division titles since he’s been on the team, along the way converting many Southern California baseball fans from the Dodgers to the Angels.

And while his range has declined in right field, Vlad still has that rocket arm and it’s fun to see him throw people out.

He’s as big of a star the Angels have had in their modern history, and one of the most fun players to watch in all of baseball.

Passion Bucket gear exists

I don’t like going out of my way to endorse products, but seeing how I’m essentially a Passion Bucket beat reporter, I thought I’d point this out.

Gutty Little Bruins found the website passionbucketgear.com, which is selling shirts like the one in the picture. “Passion Bucket” is really growing now.

And if you’re new to the blog and don’t know what “passion bucket” is, it was coined by UCLA’s Rick Neuheisel on the Dan Patrick Show. I explain it here, and friend of OSQ Palaver has a full etymology.