The Return Of The Panda (At A Ballpark Near You ™) continued this week with the road trip leg in San Diego and today’s Opening Day game. His comfort at the plate, though he continues to be chided about his free-swinging ways, is obvious. Even his defense looks solid (today).

The only concern I have is his approach from the right side. He’s only had 4 at bats from the right side, with 1 hit to show for it (and 2 strikeouts). He looked really bad on those strike outs, falling victim to the classic high strike once again. From the left side he tattooed a high one into the stands, but the right side is much more suspect. This is the only weakness he has exhibited so far this year. 

Of course, last April was a classic Panda month and he fell of steeply in May, but so far, so good. Just lay off that high strike, Pablo.

Finally standing next to greatness.

Panda’s love for life, expressed in bubble form

 It’s never fun to see the Gmen lose to the TrolleyDodgers. Posey’s first error ever (I don’t need to research it, that’s how it felt) finally betrayed his youth. Johnny Bench’s greatness is safe for now (don’t get comfortable, Johnny B.). Opening Day jitters are my excuse of choice.

Pablo’s first Panda Magic moment of the season eased the resulting panic and my heavy heart. The line-drive double that never was, pawed by the Panda, removed spring-training skepticism. He is again the heartbeat of the team.

And then, the topper- mid-grab, he blew a gum bubble. This man is irrepressible. Baseball and life are fun again. His jolly intact, the Panda is back. 

Another day when

the games don’t matter at all.

Excruciating.