It was a much anticipated big league debut for Portland. Which makes it all the more puzzling that the Lumberjacks didn't release more press on the fact that Mynorli Gaajlimitz was making the big league roster prior to opening day. "It's been a busy week" commented assistant general manager Sandy Mounds. "Spring ended, we had roster moves to make. Wilson went on a golf trip. There's only so much I can do around here" Mounds added. "But yes, we have an 18 year old phenom on our hands and he's on the roster. And I'm calling it now, he's your Frick League Gillstrom winner this year."
Portland opened the season on the road in San Fernando Tuesday night, and even though this game was played on April 1, this was no joke. Batting in the DH spot and in the #3 slot in the Lumberjacks lineup, Mynorli did something that was rather unique for a career. On the very first pitch of his very first game of his very first at-bat, Mynorli Gaajlimitz roped a line drive single to rightfield. The ball was registered at having a 109.4 exit velocity.
"I looked over at Lee after the hit" commented manager Mons Raider talking to Lee Barker the bench coach "and said we're going to be seeing a lot of that from this kid. He's something else."
Gaajlimitz did fly out in his next two at-bats before hitting another single in the top of the 7th inning to finish his first big league game 2-4.
"It's a dream come true" discussed Gaajlimitz after the game. "Everyone who plays this game as a kid dreams of being in the big leagues one day. Here I am. I never expected it to come quite so quick but I'm here and hopefully I'm here to stay."
Mynorli spent just 2 years in the minor leagues where he tormented minor league pitching before Portland called him up to the big league squad this season after spring training. He enters the season as the #2 ranked prospect in the BBA after dropping as low as 9th this off-season.
"What's the all-time single season hit record" asked Sandy after the game with a wink. "Buckle up boys, it's going to be a fun season!"
Gaajlimitz finished his first 6 games going 10-25 with 3 walks. He tallied hits in 5 of his first 6 games including four games in which he tallied multiple hits.
