We watched in horror the mere shadow of your former self that tried, tried and tried again during a personal "Annus Horriblis" in 2005. Trying and failing both as a starter and as a closer, and finishing with a, for you, dismal 8-8 record with a horrible 5.69 ERA, and generally having a miserable time.
Then came Spring Training 2006, and you looked the trimmest and healthiest since arriving on the East Coast back in 2004. We watched you get your arm in shape, throw long toss, simulated games and ST games.
Then came the Opening Day at the Rangers, and I actually had to rewind my PVR to see if my eyes were playing tricks on me?!? 96 MPH in the middle innings of your first start??
Three weeks later, and you're now 4-0 with a 1.61 ERA and demolishing opponents left, right and center. As if that wasn't enough, you are leading your two new proteges Joshua and Jonathan to places they have never been before, and they have responded with mindblowing performances (Joshua - 3-0, 1.29 ERA (AL #1), Jonathan - 7 saves in 7 attempts, 0.0 ERA).
Even as I write this, the emotions of 2004 are returning......
Welcome back Mr. Schilling..... (Photo from Boston Globe)
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