Her Voice Sets The Tone

I’ve worked Kansas City Royals Opening Day 18 times.

Tonight will be 19.

I don’t get nervous anymore. That’s been gone for years. But in the days leading up to Opening Day, I can still feel it building. A little more energy. A little more edge. The kind that reminds me it’s go-time.

That part never really leaves, but I can tell this one feels different.

A new network with Royals.TV, real expectations for this team, and a moment to open the broadcast that has nothing to do with wins or losses.

It starts with Sarah Nauser.

Sarah’s First Appearance on Royals Live in 2018

I’m lucky to call her a friend. Through her battle with ALS, I’ve seen the strength, the fight, and the way she’s connected to the Royals clubhouse and to so many people around it. And tonight, before a single pitch is thrown, voice cloning gives us something back. We get to hear her voice again, and it’s as powerful as you’d think.

Sarah wrote the opening tease for tonight’s broadcast. It’s a letter to the Royals. If you have a few minutes, I hope you’ll watch it. This video says more than I ever could, and there’s a good chance you’ll need a box of Kleenex.

Because as much as Opening Day is supposed to be about possibility, I’m reminded that the moments that stay with us usually have nothing to do with the standings.

That’s Small Ball.

I’d love to hear what this brings up for you.