Today marks a special day for Diamondbacks outfielder Randal Grichuk. Not only does he celebrate his 33rd birthday, but also has reached the 10 years service time milestone in the major leagues.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!What a day for Randal!
Reaching the big ????-years-in-MLB milestone on your birthday? Now that’s worth celebrating. ???? pic.twitter.com/99sPEQFS0c
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) August 13, 2024
To commemorate his achievement, he received a bottle of Dom Perignon with a note that reads “Grich, 10 years in the big leagues. Congrats!” along with balloons.
Grichuck later addressed the team, thanking manager Torey Lovullo and Senior Director of Team Travel Roger Riley before his remarks, with the Diamondbacks posting the video on X.
“When I got drafted, the goal is make it to the big leagues. And to play 10 years, and not a lot of guys do it, never thought I had a chance but been a lot of downs and little bit of ups, we kept going. I look around the room and I see a lot of amazing talent, a lot of good ball players, and I hope each and every one of you get here and do good here. Thank you all for helping me celebrate, it’s a hell of a team to be on, and it’s been a fun run and I’m glad I’m able to celebrate with you all.”
What it means to Randal and his wife, Victoria (and their son too!). ???? https://t.co/2ofbR7YM62 pic.twitter.com/5oMcIJ8rWp
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) August 14, 2024
“Oh my gosh, it’s been a long time in the making,” said Grichuk’s wife, Victoria, who traveled to Chase Field with their son. “I’ve known him for 12 years. There’s been a lot of ups and downs, a lot of moves, travels, and I can’t believe we’re here.”
Grichuk becomes the second Diamondback to reach the 10-year mark, as third baseman Eugenio Suárez reached that milestone earlier in the season. It’s a mark that is highly valued by the players as not only does it represent a long and successful career, but also allows players to receive the maximum pension.
Grichuk signed a one-year free agent deal with the Diamondbacks in February and has been a solid addition to the team. Playing a fourth outfielder and occasionally the DH, he’s been a solid weapon against left-handed pitchers. On the season, he’s batting .273 with four home runs in 207 plate appearances. Against lefties, he’s putting up a .294/.368/.412 slash line with a homer.
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Michael McDermott covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and more for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on X via @MichaelMcDMLB
