Boston Red Sox outfielder Darnell McDonald was back in a starting lineup Friday at Camden Yards – more than five years after it last occurred.
McDonald, the Orioles' top draft pick in 1997, played 17 games for the Orioles in 2004 before being released at the end of that season. He bounced around with five different organizations, signing with the Boston Red Sox this offseason. Considered minor-league outfield depth, the Red Sox were forced to call him to the big leagues on April 20 due to injuries.
And he has excelled, batting .333 (eight hits, including two homers, in 24 at-bats) in his first nine games, a period in which Boston has gone 7-2 and McDonald has been a key contributor.
"It's a dream come true," said McDonald, who has played in more than 1,300 minor league games. "To do something like this with a franchise like the Boston Red Sox and see the appreciation from the fans, is an unbelievable feeling I will always remember. It's something that gives you chills when you walk to the plate."
McDonald, now 31, spent seven seasons in the Orioles organization, and was its player of the year in 2002, but never had an extended chance in the majors. He batted .156 in 32 at-bats with the Orioles in 2004.
"This is the team that drafted me and invested a lot of money in me, which I definitely appreciate. Things didn't work out the way I would have liked or they would have liked," McDonald said. "I wish I had better memories of being here. But I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. And I'm just trying to go out now and enjoy every day, no matter where it is."