Dontrelle Willis and the Detroit Tigers defeated the Royals 7-3 Thursday afternoon at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City.
Willis, who made his first start since last June when he was placed on the disabled list due to social anxiety, pitched six innings and surrendered only two earned runs.
Willis’ solid outing is tremendously encouraging for the Tigers who have seen the “D-Train” struggle mightily ever since they acquired him in December 2007 from the Florida Marlins.
The two-time All-Star selection and 2003 National League Rookie of the Year Award winner is viewed by many onlookers as a spent oddball who will never recapture the brilliance he once displayed on the hill.
Fortunately, Willis has apparently not listened to his critics and he seems destined to be a vital cog in the Tigers rotation this season.
Prior to his appearance in the “Paris of the Plains,” the Oakland native insisted that he is physically and mentally prepared to again thrive in the major leagues.
“I’m just excited to play. I’m not a complex dude,” said Willis, 28, a southpaw who led the National League with 22 wins in 2005. “I feel great. I had a great start and I’m anxious to go out and start.”
Willis has amassed a career record of 69-60 with a 4.02 ERA.
At his pinnacle, Willis was an electric pitcher who dazzled fans with his skills, unorthodox delivery and infectious personality.
At his nadir, Willis was an erratic lefty who battled command and mental issues.
Dontrelle Willis is an easy individual to support and cheer for.
Hopefully, for the good of the Tigers and Major League Baseball as a whole, the “D-Train” is back on his intended schedule to excellence.
“I just want to leave it all on the field,” added Willis.
At this point, it’s just great to see Dontrelle Willis back “on the field” again.
Keywords: detroit tigers, dontrelle willis, kansas city royals
