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Rays Reliever Cites Humidor Issues in Loss to Rockies
During the Tampa Bay Rays’ recent game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field, reliever Pete Fairbanks found himself struggling with his grip on the baseball. He attributed this difficulty to the humidor used at the stadium to regulate the moisture level in the baseballs. Fairbanks expressed his frustration with the variability of the balls, particularly after issuing three walks in the ninth inning, which ultimately led to the Rockies’ walk-off grand slam and a 10-7 victory.
Since the installation of the humidor room at Coors Field in 2002, the Rockies have used it to prevent baseballs from becoming too dried out in the thin air of Denver. However, players like Fairbanks, who may not be accustomed to these conditions due to the Rays’ infrequent visits to the Mile High City and their usual sea-level environment, can face challenges in adjusting to the flight and feel of the ball.
Rockies pitcher Peter Lambert acknowledged the differences in playing conditions between Coors Field and other ballparks, noting that the dry air in Denver can make the ball feel chalky. Fairbanks’ struggle with control in the ninth inning highlighted the impact of these unique factors on gameplay, as his inability to throw strikes ultimately cost the Rays the game.
Despite his grievances with the baseballs, Fairbanks took full responsibility for his performance, admitting that his inability to adjust to the quality issues was the primary reason for his struggles on the mound. While he refrained from specifying whether the balls were too wet or dry, he emphasized that their overall quality was subpar and inconsistent, affecting his ability to throw with precision.
In conclusion, Fairbanks’ experience at Coors Field serves as a reminder of the importance of adaptability in baseball, particularly when facing environmental variables like altitude and humidity. As players continue to navigate different playing conditions, the ability to make necessary adjustments and maintain focus under challenging circumstances becomes essential for success on the field.
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