Eventually, We Will Play Baseball Here

Thank you, Roy Hobbs, for providing an inspiring ending to an unforgettably somber day.

The sports world came to a grinding halt Thursday – and rightfully so – due to the coronavirus pandemic. And what was expected to be a historic year for athletic events in our city was suddenly much different.

There will be no NCAA Tournament next week, no U.S. Open Cup for Union Omaha next month and no College World Series in June. The start of our Pacific Coast League baseball season is also being delayed.

Stunned, like everyone else, I had been immersed in COVID-19 television coverage for hours when a commercial break afforded me a chance to browse the guide. “The Natural” was on a movie channel.

And by the time Hobbs homered off John Rhoades to win the pennant for the Knights, the coronavirus had become an afterthought. I needed that for at least a little while. I’m sure others in our area do too.

That’s why I’m inspired by the fact that there will be baseball at Werner Park this year. The season won’t start on time and the schedule – likely abbreviated – will look different. But, eventually, we will play ball.

Promotional nights can be shifted. Tickets can be exchanged. Special appearances can be rescheduled.

The Storm Chasers staff continues to prepare for the upcoming 10th season at Werner Park, even though the date of the opener is unknown. And until then, we’ll keep providing content for enjoyment.

Recently retired ballplayer and budding video guru Chase d’Arnaud, who played for the Chasers late last season, is the guest on next week’s “Between Two Berms” podcast. His 10-episode “Journeyman” series on YouTube gives a great behind-the-scenes look at the game and can help fill the current baseball void.

Spring Training is on hiatus. The Kansas City Royals, Omaha’s parent club, shut down camp on Friday afternoon to give themselves a couple of days to reassess the coronavirus situation from a team view.

Back here in Omaha, the anticipation for the arrival of the next wave of K.C. prospects will be temporarily put on hold. But when it arrives to start the season, whenever that is, I can promise that we’ll be ready.

The Chasers staff will keep everyone informed during this unusual time. In the meantime, go ahead and channel surf. Surely, Hobbs is about to strike out “The Whammer” on three pitches on TV somewhere.