In The Spotlight

Professional athletes bounce back from injuries all the time, but it isn’t often that a player returns to form after suffering through a crippling bout of depression. That’s precisely what Reds first baseman Joey Votto did in 2010 when he won the National League Most Valuable Player Award, two years after the sudden loss of his father sent him into a downward spiral filled with hospital visits and near-death experiences. “I was... dealing with the anxieties of grief, sadness, fear, and every emotion you can imagine one goes through,” he admits. “I had a difficult time, [but] I'm here now, and I'm doing better. That's all that matters.” Votto’s remarkable resurgence has since become a source of inspiration for those suffering with anxiety and depression. Learn more about his journey by clicking here.

Question of the Week

Brent, Toronto, ON
Subj: Close but no cigar
Has any pitcher ever lost a decision after throwing a complete game no-hitter?

Absolutely, Brent. The event occurred for the first time in baseball’s modern era on April 23, 1964 when Houston hurler Ken Johnson lost 1-0 to the Cincinnati Reds. The winning run was scored by Pete Rose in the top of the ninth following a pair of costly errors. Despite the bittersweet outcome Johnson managed to remain upbeat after the game when reporters informed him of his unique feat. "Say, I guess that will put me in baseball history,” he said, breaking out into a broad smile. “What a way to get in the book."

Question of the Week

Jeffrey, Boise, ID
Subj: I’ve got to hand it to you
Hey Ryan, who was the first professional baseball player to wear a glove?

Cincinnati Red Stockings catcher Doug Allison became the first player to opt for protective gear in 1869 when he donned a pair of homemade buckskin mittens. Despite the obvious dangers of his position, Allison was largely ridiculed by fans and players alike, and the modern glove didn’t take its rightful place until the 1880’s. These days gloves come equipped with closed webbing, special finger linings and, in the case of Gaylord Perry, a handy dandy tube of Vaseline, a nail file and a three-speed Black & Decker power sander.