Carlos Carrasco Returns to Baseball in the Midst of Cancer Battle
After not pitching since May 30th, Cleveland Indians starter Carlos Carrasco returned to the mound for the first time since he was diagnosed with leukemia.
Cleveland Indians starter Carlos Carrasco (aka “Cookie”0 threw one inning of relief on Monday for Double-A Akron. This was his first time pitching since he was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia, a treatable form of cancer.
Carrasco said there were some jitters on the mound after he received a standing ovation for his return. He said the butterflies disappeared after he threw one pitch.
After striking out the last batter of the inning, he received another standing ovation at Canal Park.
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“It was really special today,” Carrasco said. “Just coming back today out of the bullpen, it feels great.”
The 32-year-old was hitting 97 MPH with his fastball. His hard work and perseverance helped him maintain his skills through his two-month battle.
Carrasco is determined to pitch again for the Indians this season. The Indians are currently in a position to play in the AL Wild Card game, so Carrasco has a chance to pitch for Cleveland in October.
“Cookie: is scheduled to pitch again on Thursday for Double-A. The Indians will determine his next step after he pitches on Thursday.
Carrasco’s teammates, the city of Cleveland and the whole baseball community have rallied around and supported Carrasco. When the Indian’s hosted the 2019 All-Star game in July, he appeared on the field during the annual “Stand Up To Cancer” tribute.
“I stand with Cookie” T-shirts” have become a symbol in the city of Cleveland, a symbol of hope.
It is no surprise that the Cleveland Indians have been playing better during Carrasco’s absence because they are playing for their teammate. They have been 46-22 while Carrasco has been in treatment and battling cancer.
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The whole baseball community is behind Carlos Carrasco and hope to see him on a major league mound before the season ends.