Today Clint “Purple Extension Getter” Hurdle announced that A.J. Burnett will be the Pirates Opening Day starter. This is some of the least surprising news you’ll hear.
You may remember last year A.J. was supposed to start Opening Day but allowed himself to be hit in the face with a baseball and thus missed time at the beginning of the season.
Were there even any options? A.J. is the clubhouse leader, a fan favorite, and the best pitcher on the roster. He helped revitalize this team and, outside of Cutch, was the single most important player on the team.
This is an honor he deserves. This will also be the first time A.J. Burnett has gotten the ball on Opening Day, making it all the more special.
I know what you’re here for. Empirical data and accurate predictions. Well how about this for statistics. A.J. Burnett is 7-5 with two no decisions in his first start over his career. His team has won nine times in 14 seasons.
Basically a lock to win it.
