The Orioles got a well-deserved 6-1 win over the Twins on a somber day throughout the sport due to Mike Flanagan’s untimely passing. They earned a four-game sweep in Minnesota.
Jo-Jo Reyes pitched six strong innings of one-run ball for Baltimore, and Mark Reynolds added some fireworks with his 29th homer – a three run shot. Craig Tatum also drove in two runs in the winning effort.
For the second straight day, an Orioles’ victory was completely overshadowed.
Sadly, the minds on many in the media and also fans were on Mike Flanagan. Who knows what really happened with him on Wednesday, what the reasons were, or what not to lead to an ultimate decision; alas, the more I heard from others on the web, news and the radio about Flanagan, the more heart-wrenching his story became.
I spent a while yesterday after work reading how witty, smart and engaging Mike was. Obviously, a lot of us fans didn’t know him super well at all; however, after the reports and tributes towards Flanagan, you felt that you knew him a little better and seemed like someone that would be an excellent friend.
It sounded like he was much more than a very good pitcher, but a man who was highly respected by his peers and will be ultimately remembered for so much good.
It was painful hearing and reading about Flanagan, but a lot of us should take solace in that he was a quality human being to those who knew him best.
The Orioles, in a press release, announced that they would be honoring Flanagan not only at tonight’s game versus the Yankees, but throughout the remainder of the 2011 season.
I’m going to touch on a point that James brought up yesterday: If you or someone you know is dealing with depression or just needs someone to talk to; do not wait – act.
Please.
I’ve been there and it’s a place no one deserves to be – no matter where they are in their life; however, with help, support, love and some faith, it does get better.
