Pam Richter
Right now, I'm sitting and watching my hometown Phillies take on the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday night baseball. The talk tonight has been about 37-year old Pedro Martinez. Yes, Martinez is making his first start in the majors since he last pitched with the Mets in the 2008 season.
Quite frankly, there's a bigger story here than the 37-year old who is trying to resurrect his career. It is Jeff Samardzija, a pitcher 13 years younger than Pedro who opposed the seasoned veteran on the mound tonight.
Samardzija is best well-known for his decorated career at Notre Dame not on the baseball diamond, but on the football field. During his four year career with the Fighting Irish, he was one of quarterback Brady Quinn's favorite targets. The wide receiver set single season records in receiving yards and touchdowns.
What should be known about Samardzija is not his records at Notre Dame, but his heart. The former standout collegiate football star gave up a shot at the NFL to pursue his love, baseball. He has been quoted with saying he has "never regretted his decision."
With baseball, the road to the big leagues can take years upon years, with only the cream of the crop able to crack the minor league system.
The young Samardzija was able to crack the system and pursue his dream - to pitch for a major league team. Yes, he's getting a little roughed up right now by the World Champs, but regardless, the future is bright for the young arm.
If you look beyond his numbers and beyond his tremendous upside, Samardzija made the choice to pursue what he loves. This passion and heart will take him further than any 96 mph fastball he will throw.
I'll take watching a story like Samardzija any night rather than watching a washed up, controversial Martinez - even if Samardzija is going against my favorite team.