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I was a little worried with how Orioles fans might respond to Nelson Cruz’s return to Camden Yards.
Orioles fans: Do not boo Nelson Cruz on his return to OPACY. He helped deliver 1st AL East crown 17 yrs. Thank him with class.
— Bird’s Eye View (@BirdsEyeViewBal) May 19, 2015
Cruz has been a lightning rod discussion point in Birdland, with the team’s lackluster start causing fans to “debate” whether the Orioles should have ponied up the $57MM over four years to keep his boomstick.
My fears were assuaged, when Cruz came up to bat in the first inning.
Orioles fans applauded, some bellowing out the CRUUUUUUUUUUZ that was a staple for the Most Valuable Oriole in 2014. Some stood.
Cruz clearly appreciated the gesture. Smiling (no doubt getting a good natured ribbing from Orioles catcher, Caleb Joseph), the M’s right fielder settled into the batter’s box and went to work against Miguel Gonzales.
It’s interesting to see Cruz get that reception. He was brought to Baltimore on a steal of a deal because of his involvement in the Biogenesis scandal. His PED suspension hurt his value to the point where the Orioles could retain his services on a reasonable one-year contract. Fans weren’t sure what to make of Cruz when he arrived. He was a slugger to be sure, but he was also a player about whom the PED talk wasn’t just whispers. Cruz put those concerns to bed, leading the majors in home runs, helping the Orioles secure their first AL East championship in 17 years, and winning fans over with his personality
It was good to see an old friend at Camden Yards last night. Whether you’re in the “Thanks for the Memories, enjoy Seattle” camp or “The Orioles were crazy to let him go” camp, we saw all facets of his game. The monstrous three-run home run in the first, and the error in right field that allowed two runs to score.
For better or for worse, Nelson Cruz was back to his old tricks last night. And Orioles fans took the time to let him know he was remembered fondly.
Good work, Birdland.
