Los Angeles Angels: Brandon Marsh has bittersweet debut

For most professional baseball players, their major league debut is a cause for celebration. That would still be the case for Los Angeles Angels prospect Brandon Marsh, who made his debut on Sunday. However, in his case, one could understand if that debut was tinged with sadness as well.

Marsh has dealt with a great deal of tragedy thus far in 2021. His father had passed earlier in the year, and his best friend had suddenly passed away a month ago.

A bittersweet debut for Los Angeles Angels prospect Brandon Marsh

Marsh’s debut did not go as he would have hoped. He was 0-4 at the plate, striking out twice, and did not have a single chance in center over the course of the game. But what was important was that he had reached the majors and was getting his chance to prove that he could be a building block for the Angels.

But this was also supposed to be a day for Marsh’s family and friends. We often see the camera pan over to a player’s family when they make their debut, getting reaction shots for that first plate appearance, first hit, and first homer.

In Marsh’s case, there was a void in that group. People that he would have wanted there for those moments had passed, unable to be with him as he climbed to the mountaintop of professional baseball.

Marsh will get his chances. A consensus top 100 prospect over each of the past two seasons, he is viewed as an important part of the Angels’ future. He should be a key part of their next competitive roster, as the Angels hope that their upcoming prospects can make a difference and help guide the franchise back to the postseason.

Brandon Marsh is a key part of the Los Angeles Angels’ future. Unfortunately, his father and best friend will not be there to celebrate with him.