“Baby Shark” is coming back to DC! The Washington Nationals selected the contract of fan favorite Gerardo Parra while optioning infielder Luis Garcia to Triple-A Rochester. The club also designated left-handed pitcher Ben Braymer for assignment.
Parra captivated the Nationals fans in 2019 during their run to the World Series with his walk-up song of “Baby Shark.” During the championship-winning season, Parra appeared in 89 games, playing well and delivering timely hits on the Nationals’ magical run.
His first hit as a National was a go-ahead grand slam against the Dodgers on May 11, 2019. He finished the season batting .250 with eight home runs and 42 RBIs. His contribution to the clubhouse went beyond his on field production.
Parra brought an energy and purpose to the season which started 19-31 and ended with a World Series title. After the 2019 season, he spent 2020 in Japan.
Now the 34-year old gets a hero’s welcome that is not usual for a journeyman.
The Nationals needed a backup outfielder with the absence of Andrew Stevenson (strained oblique). Parra can play center field if needed in lieu of Victor Robles.
As for when Parra does come to the plate, Nationals fans will hear “Baby Shark” blasting inside the ballpark.
“I can’t change,” Parra said per Mark Zuckerman of MASN Sports. “That’s a good vibe for my team, even more special for the fans. I think that’s more important.”
He’s even wearing his old 88 again.
Parra’s return has a 2019 season feeling. The Nationals struggled out of the gate. However, they’ve been hot as of late winning six of their last seven games entering Sunday’s game against the New York Mets.
“Believe it. Start to believe again. It’s never late,” Parra proclaimed per Chelsea Janes of The Washington Post.
The Nationals are 32-36, six games back in the NL East and 6.5 back for the second NL wild card. While it’s unclear how much Parra will be used during this stint, he sees no reason not to believe another magical run is in store.
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