A young Washington Nationals outfielder put on a show in the middle of Seattle, under the bright lights of T-Mobile Park. It was the kind of performance that would make any rookie’s dreams come true. But when the last out was called and the team got ready to celebrate, he was nowhere to be found in the clubhouse, leaving everyone confused. What can be more important than celebrating the win?
Well, we are talking about Robert Hassell III. He hit three times, drove in two runs, and smashed his first major league home run, helping the Nationals secure a 9-0 over the Mariners.
Hassell was picked by the San Diego Padres, eighth overall in the 2020 draft. Then, in the huge Juan Soto trade of 2022, Washington got him. And finally, he is emerging out of his shadow.
That game against the Mariners was his breakout game where he showed his true potential, after a rough start to his major league career, when he only hit .118 in his first five games. The best part was when he hit a homer in the 8th inning off a four-seam fastball from Blas Castano, it went over the right-center fence.
However, once the game ended, Hassell had other priorities rather than celebrating. When asked why he was leaving too early, his answer was cute. The 23-year-old said, “I got my girlfriend back at the hotel. I don’t want to have her waiting too long! My apologies” Aww!
Put on a show on the diamond, make fans and the team happy and go back to your loved one after emerging through a pressure-packed game.
Hassell was called up from the minors on Thursday, and the game against the Mariners was a test for him. He just came like a fine, bright diamond. The nerves were there, and it was Nationals manager Dave Martinez who helped calm him down. He advised, “You want to try to do a lot.” But this game is tough enough. It’s tough enough.” And Hassell passed the toughest test.
After his biggest win, he ran off the field to meet his special someone, prompting social media nods and jokes.
Hassell’s post-game plans win over fans
The internet, where every blink, comment, and swift exit is looked at and praised, immediately picked up on Hassell’s cute answer. People’s first reactions were a mix of laughter and appreciation. Fans liked that Hassell chose to put his personal life first, even after a game that was one of the finest performances of his career. “Good for him, I bet she was proud of him,” one fan wrote.
Fans who had long supported Hassell before this game were proud of his accomplishments. It represented his hard work and perseverance. “Robert has his priorities straight. It is so good to see you doing so well. I always have and always will root for you and be your fan,” wrote another fan. This moving message highlights Hassell’s journey from the minor leagues to the majors, where he is now enjoying great success.
MLB fans, do you think there will be no dose of humor? Well, here it is, “Had to go get his reward!!! ,” a fan chimed in. Well, who doesn’t rush home after a long day or a huge success to be with the person they care about most? Love is indeed in the air, even in the world of professional sports.
Achieving victory for your squad—check. Hitting a home run—check. Happy admirers—check. What is left? An extended contract from the club. A plea: “Extend him asap!!!” wrote a netizen. Hassell’s performance has impressed everyone. The MLB market can spot great rookies. The Nationals must secure him for the future before it’s too late.
Meanwhile, one fan thought Hassell was “ice cold.” Why? Well, when every second person wants to hear from you after a class performance, denying that isn’t easy. But Hassell was confident and clear, and he was able to balance his work and personal life. It was adorable, wasn’t it?
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