(Audacy) While the Cubs watch from their couches as the MLB playoffs unfold, a former member of the Cubs in 2021 had a memorable moment that involved another former Cub. Confused? Let’s clear that up.
Outfielder Joc Pederson was traded from the Cubs to the Braves in July and is now playing a big role in Atlanta’s postseason run. Against the Brewers in Game 1 of the National League Division Series, Pederson had a pinch-hit home run. In Game 2, he had a pinch-hit single. And in Game 3 on Monday, he came through yet again off the bench, producing all three runs of the game with one majestic pinch-hit swing.
When he homered, Pederson wasn't using his own bat but that of former Cubs teammate Anthony Rizzo, who m Chicago traded to the New York Yankees in July. Though the Yankees were eliminated from playoffs in the American League wild-card game, Rizzo’s name popped up yet again due to the bat that Pederson smacked his home run with.
Asked about it after the game, Pederson cracked a smile and referred to his old teammate — or perhaps the bat itself? — by a moniker I hadn't yet heard.
“Bighorn gets a lot of hits, so I snagged one of his bats before I left,” Pederson said. “I used it a few times over there and took it up there, so... Rizz has that special October strength too, so thanks Bighorn!”
Pederson and the Braves lead 2-1 in the best-of-five series against the Brewers.
LISTEN on the Audacy app
Sign up and follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram