SEATTLE--Dozens of fans at Safeco Field left disappointed after Mariners manager Eric Wedge forfeited Tuesday night's game against the Kansas City Royals. Wedge explained that, while the M's were taking batting practice, he overheard Royals broadcaster Rex Hudler talking about how KC's scheduled starter Jonathan Sanchez was determined and just "wanted a win more" than Seattle.
"I figured there was no point in playing the game if Sanchez wanted it that much," Wedge said.
"I'm disappointed," Mariners outfielder Ichiro Suzuki said through an interpreter. "I always like to play, even if there is no chance that we will win, given the overwhelming desire of the opposing pitcher to bring about our defeat."
Mariners General Manager Jack Zduriencik took time out from explaining how to pronounce his last name to express sympathy for Wedge's move. "Look, you never want to forfeit, but we have enough trouble getting beat by teams that couldn't care less whether they win or lose. How are we supposed to compete with someone that actually wants to win?"
Seattle batting coach Chris Chambliss didn't dispute the futility of playing a team or pitcher that just wants it more, but he did express skepticism as to whether Sanchez really did want it that much. "How does Hudler know?" Chambliss asked. "Back when I was playing, you could tell when someone wanted it more. I remember once George Brett came up and threatened to murder my entire family if he didn't win. Now THAT was wanting it!"
When he heard about the Seattle forfeit, Jonathan Sanchez was pleased to earn the easy 'W,' but he, too, was surprised at Wedge's decision. "He did this because of what Rex Hudler said? Doesn't he know that guy's an idiot?"
Wedge was, indeed, informed of Hudler's idiocy, but by that point it was too late to play the game.
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