There are a number of ways to endear yourself to the fans in a new city after you've been traded. The best way to do it is to actually perform well. If you don't perform well, the next best option is probably to go on a profanity-laden rant after you perform poorly. Last night Craig Hansen, one of the players the Pirates acquired at the trade deadline, came into the game with the Pirates leading the Cubs 8-7, walked three hitters, gave up a hit, and watched all the runs score. When asked about his outing, this is how he responded:
"I couldn't throw a [expletive] strike," he said at his stall, eyes flaring. "When you can't throw a [expletive] strike, you can't get anyone out."For a former first round draft pick, Hansen's struggled to this early point in his career with a 6.39 ERA and a 1.71 WHIP in 81 appearances with the Pirates and Red Sox through his career. He's got a live arm and great numbers in the minors, but until he learns how to throw strikes in the big leagues (he's walked 51 batters in 81 2/3 innings) he's going to have more frustrating outings like last night's.
