Chris Murphy looks back at MLB debut: 'It's reassurance I can do it at that level'
WooSox manager Chad Tracy has a lot on his plate as a Triple-A manager. Between managing two pitching staffs and having a short roster on most nights given the needs in Boston, Tracy has to roll with what he has as it’s part of the job.
With all the challenges aside, there is a big upside to the job which Tracy noted as “the best part of the gig”. Having the chance to tell one of your players they are getting promoted to the majors to make their MLB debut.
That happened with Chris Murphy this past week as he had the chance to make his debut in Cleveland.
“It happened quick, I only had one batter to get loose.” said Murphy to Beyond the Monster. “I ran down there, and Alex Cora gave me the ball and told me I was a big leaguer. Kiké was the last guy in the huddle and told me that you only get one of these so take it in for a second and get ready to compete.”
The first game nerves are real, as Murphy mentioned a couple of factors that helped him relax while with Boston.
“It was very familiar having Paul Abbott there, it was his first time coaching in the MLB too so it was pretty cool.” Murphy said. “Connor Wong caught me last year and I know Dave Bush prepares the catchers pitch to pitch to what the pitchers throw to each hitter. It took a lot of stress off my shoulders. I still knew how to attack guys, but I didn’t shake because I knew Wong knew how to attack guys way better than I did and I trusted him a lot. Whatever he called I threw so it took a lot of stress out of that situation.”
Murphy has since reported back to Worcester after being optioned after his debut. He has pitched in one outing since and put up a scoreless frame.
What was the biggest takeaway from the whole experience?
“Reassurance that I can do it at that level.” Murphy said. “Bringing it back down here so whenever I do get that call again I know that I can do that again.”
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