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MARYVILLE

KXCV-KRNW


News Brief

July 17, 2020CLARINDA, Ia.

Former All-Star Hayes looks ahead to shortened MLB season

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The Major League Baseball season will get underway in just one week for its abbreviated 60-game sprint to the playoffs.

But fighting to keep players healthy on the field and off of it amid the coronavirus pandemic will be a challenge.

Former MLB All-Star and Clarinda A's standout, Von Hayes, says it will be especially hard for pitchers to ramp up their arms on such a short timeline during the team summer camps, and we may not see hurlers reach their peak until the season is almost over.

"They may only get one real good quality start and then bam, they're already into the playoffs. So it's going to be different," Hayes said. "It's going to be hard to say that the best team is going to win, because I think what's going to happen is you're going to see a lot of key players and a lot of superstars possibly, either not participate at all and opt out or just really be guarded."

But despite the risks involved and the adversity the league will face over 60 games, Hayes believes its important to have a season for the fans.

"I think it's very important, not only for the players to get back out there, but more importantly for the fans. If we're going to be spending time at home, what better way is there to pick up three or four hours of what could be a frustrating day to watch your favorite baseball team and relax with your family."

Hayes spent 9 of his 12 big league seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies.

He also still works closely with the Clarinda A's.

Full audio from his interview with KXCV-KRNW is available above.