He made 15 appearances for the team in 2009 and didn’t record a decision, while posting a 2.78 ERA out of the bullpen. While those contributions should not be overlooked, many fans will remember Hayhurst as well, if not more, for his thought-provoking and honest writing and eloquent radio appearances.
Many baseball players, understandably, are reluctant to speak out about many issues and with the current social media, players are and likely will become more guarded. However, Dirk was more than just an uncommon baseball player willing to speak his mind.
He was perceptive about his place in the sport and baseball’s place in society. He was aware of his own limitations, but also determined to succeed as a professional baseball player. He gave fans details of his struggles and successes, but also also opened up a whole new world of Garfooses to previously unknowledgeable fans, myself among them. Furthermore, Dirk isn’t a good writer for a baseball player. He’s a good writer. Period.
If you haven’t yet, please check out his book, The Bullpen Gospels. I own a copy and it sits proudly next to Jim Bouton’s Ball Four and Pat Jordan’s A False Spring as the baseball autobiographies I own.
Finally, please read his blog post where he announces that he won’t be returning to the Jays. It demonstrates his class, humility and fantastic writing talent and his genuine love of the organization and city shine through.
Dirk, we enjoyed every radio guest spot, every Garfoose reference and every inning you were on the mound. Best of luck going forward and you’ll be missed.
