Parker Messick is about to get a very different kind of homecoming at Tropicana Field.
The Cleveland Guardians left-hander, a Plant City native, is set to start Game 2 of the American League Championship Series in St. Petersburg, putting him on the mound at the same ballpark where he grew up watching Tampa Bay Rays games. This time, though, he’ll be pitching in October with Cleveland trying to ride its Game 1 win and inch closer to the World Series.
For Messick, a Florida State product who was taken by the Guardians in the second round of the 2022 MLB Draft, the moment lands with extra weight. He’s not just returning to a familiar stadium. He’s stepping into it as a postseason starter against the club he used to follow from the stands.
His connection to the Trop runs deep. At seven years old, he was there for the Rays’ matchup with the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2008 World Series, and he says the building has been part of his baseball life for years.
"I came to the only game they won in the '08 World Series," Messick said. "I've taken laps around the field with more Little League All-Star team banners from winning those tournaments.
Loved coming here all the way through college. I have so many good memories here.
It’s an awesome experience every time I step out there. To do it on this stage now is an incredible opportunity."
Messick has already seen Tampa Bay from the other side this season. He faced the Rays twice, including a July start at Tropicana Field when he worked 7 2/3 innings and struck out six. The Rays won that game 1-0.
Now the assignment is bigger, and the spotlight is brighter. He’ll be trying to help Cleveland add another postseason win while taking on the team that helped fuel his early love of the game.
He won’t be doing it alone, either. Family and friends are expected at the ballpark, and other supporters are planning to gather at a watch party in downtown Plant City.
For Messick and the people back home, Game 2 is more than just another playoff start. It’s a local kid returning to the place where it all started.
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