Chicago Cubs Reliver Nick Burdi Credit's Wife's Dedication To A Path Back To Majors
The triumphant return of Nick Burdi to the Chicago Cubs has ignited a blaze of excitement and admiration among fans and baseball enthusiasts alike. Yet, behind the scenes, there is an unsung hero who deserves recognition—Burdi's wife. In a touching and heartfelt tweet, Burdi expressed his profound gratitude, revealing that his wife had embraced the role of a full-time mom while juggling two separate jobs to support his relentless pursuit of his dreams. Her unwavering support has been a driving force in Burdi's remarkable journey back to the major leagues.
Burdi, a talented right-handed pitcher, first made a name for himself during his college days at the University of Louisville. He left an indelible mark by securing the Louisville Single Season/Career Saves Record and earning the prestigious 2014 NCBWA Stopper of the Year award. The Minnesota Twins recognized his potential and drafted him in the second round of the 2014 MLB June Amateur Draft.
Unfortunately, Burdi's career hit a series of roadblocks due to injuries, including two devastating Tommy John surgeries. Undeterred, he found a new opportunity with the Chicago Cubs organization, signing with them and dedicating himself to the long and arduous road to recovery. Throughout the 2023 season, he showcased his talents with the Iowa Cubs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Despite not having pitched in the majors since 2020, Burdi displayed remarkable perseverance, amassing an impressive 3.38 ERA and striking out 19 batters over 10.2 innings in Triple-A Iowa. Finally, on May 15, 2023, his unwavering dedication bore fruit as the Cubs selected his contract, clearing the path for his return to the big leagues.
The Cubs' decision to call up Burdi was part of a series of roster moves, highlighting the team's recognition of his immense talent. They placed Brad Boxberger on the injured list, made room for Jeremiah Estrada's return from Triple-A, and transferred Adrian Sampson to the long-term injured list to accommodate Burdi on the 40-man roster.
As the curtain rises on Burdi's journey back to the major leagues, the entire Cubs fan base finds itself brimming with excitement. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the crucial role a strong support system plays in the pursuit of dreams. Behind every successful athlete, there are unsung heroes like Burdi's wife, selflessly sacrificing and providing the foundation for greatness.
So, as Nick Burdi takes the field once more, let his remarkable journey fuel the ambitions of dreamers everywhere. The support he received from his wife underscores the significance of having a rock-solid support system, acting as a guiding light in the darkest of times. Burdi's story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and an embodiment of the adage that dreams can come true with unwavering dedication and the love of those who stand by our side.