You're getting warmer, Stormy. After allowing two men to reach base, Bruske retired Barry Larkin, Ken Griffey Jr. and Dante Bichette, the heart of the Reds' order. Now, I remember. For all of the hype and hoopla surrounding opening day, the results of the first game quickly fade from memory, as shown by the Bruske episode. Take away the bunting, the marching bands and the lavish pre-game ceremonies and opening day is very much like every other day of baseball's marathon season.
Funny things can happen and unlikely heroes can emerge.
At the same time, stars like Randy Johnson and Mark McGwire often swipe the spotlight as well. It's anybody's guess. Any hitter from the middle of the Brewers' batting order could emerge but it also could be an obscure choice, such as Dodgers third baseman Chris Donnels or Brewers catcher Henry Blanco. It's not a slam on Henry but you don't expect offense from him. That's not his role on our team.