Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Dick Ankiel?

Last night,  David made mention of some of his Cubs fan friends who had taken to calling my beloved Rick "Dick" Ankiel. Like David, I thought they were taking a shot at him. 

So until last night, I admit, he wasn't having a very good season. He's on my fantasy team and I'VE even sat him out. I know. You can pick up your jaw now.

On top of that, he's been sporting some very strange facial hair as of late. I was liking the dirty unshaven look (just when I thought nothing could be prettier than Ricky's clean-shaven face) and then he went and cut it all off EXCEPT THE DIRTY MUSTACHE. I didn't see it, though I hope to get a peep tonight. From what I hear though, yuck.

Now this. 
He actually WANTS to be called "Dick." Why, Ricky, why?

About to turn 30 this year, planning to start a family, and on the brink of free agency's windfall, Ankiel sees contentment where others see quiet. There is only one thing he's thinking about changing.

His name.

Ankiel has been preoccupied recently about when it is age appropriate for him to shorten his given name, Richard, to "Dick" instead of "Rick." Some friends and clubhouse denizens have already taken to calling him "Dick" this spring. He calls it an instant "ice-breaker." 

That Dick Ankiel, always redefining himself.

Call him Rick. Call him Dick.

Call him a Cardinal.

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