Reflecting on a loss in life and baseball

April 11, 2009 4:40 PM by Johnny Holliday

All of us at some time in our lives will lose a loved one. A parent, a friend, a relative.

It might be someone who has lived a long life or someone who is just beginning theirs. Any loss of life is tragic. The Los Angeles Angels have begun their healing process in the aftermath of this week's shocking development where three young people lost their lives in a hit and run accident following an Angels game.

Another victim is fighting for his life in a hospital.

One of those killed was Nick Adenhart, a promising young 22-year-old pitcher for the Angels who had started Wednesday night's game against the Oakland A's.

Adenhart was born in Silver Spring, Maryland and played his high school ball at Williamsport High.

His future in the major leagues held so much promise. By all accounts Nick did not have one single enemy.

Here was a young man who had one goal in life, and that was to become a major league pitcher. Nick accomplished his goal.

All of baseball is still in shock over Nick's death. Grown men on the Angels ballclub shed tears until there were no more. It was okay, and still is, to let your emotions take over.

Looking at video of Angels players attempting to control their emotions and reading all the stories that have been published about Nick's passing still brings tears to my eyes and I'm sure to yours as well.

We can all keep the Adenhart family in our thoughts and prayers. Say a little prayer for Nick, and while you're at it, it might not be a bad idea to let those around you know how much they mean to you.

All of the sudden, baseball isn't that important when reality sets in and reminds us how fragile life is.