Why is a Sasquatch roaming left field at Royals home games this year? Let’s explain
Vinnie Pasquantino says — now that he’s aware — he’ll absolutely be peeking toward left field at times this season.
The Royals first baseman only learned Monday about a new home tradition: When he reaches base at home, the team releases “Sasquatch” atop the Royals Hall of Fame in left field.
Pasquantino, who has several nicknames, says “Pasquatch” is his favorite; he even arrived at the clubhouse Tuesday with a Sasquatch gold chain around his neck.
This new gesture from the team, then, is a not-overly-advertised-but-also-not-subtle way to celebrate his accomplishments.
“I think it’s pretty cool,” Pasquantino said Tuesday. “I take it as an honor that the team would want to do something for me.”
Pasquantino only learned of the new ritual from a buddy; he received a text Monday night from a friend that linked to a tweet of the Sasquatch following Pasquantino’s double in the fourth inning of KC’s 9-5 win over Toronto.
For his part, Pasquantino said the Royals had not told him this routine would take place before the season began.
“Hopefully I can keep that guy employed, whoever’s up there,” Pasquantino said with a laugh. “So I’ll just try to get on base and make sure that guy still has a job.”
Pasquantino has quickly emerged as one of the Royals’ best players after debuting last season. He hit .295 with 10 home runs and a .383 on-base percentage in 72 games last year while also projecting as one of the team’s top sluggers for 2023.
The Sasquatch — as one might guess given its history — went unnoticed by some in the Royals dugout. That included manager Matt Quatraro, who said Tuesday he had yet to see the beast in left field.
“They do that when he gets on base?” Quatraro asked. “OK, I’ll look.”
Pasquantino himself hasn’t seen Sasquatch with his own eyes, only viewing him to this point in photos and videos.
He says that, though, will change soon.
“I mean, I’ll definitely give a glance up there,” Pasquantino said, “next time I get on.”
