Brandon Laird Hit A Home Run Off A Beer Advertisement To Win A Year's Supply Of Free Beer
Brandon Laird got drafted by the Yankees in the 27th round back in 2007, and appeared in just 11 games for New York back in 2011. The following year, the Astros claimed him off waivers, and he hit .198 with a .653 OPS in 113 plate appearances between 2012 and 2013. He was granted free agency after the 2013 season, signed as a free agent with the Royals, got traded to the Nationals, and never saw the big leagues again. That’s how guys end up in Japan. That’s Path to Japanese Baseball 101.
So the guy ends up in Japan, which I’m sure he’d rather be in the MLB, but what can ya do. Can’t catch a break. Then, finally, it happens. Laird hits a home run off the Kirin Beer sign in left field, and wins $10,000 and a year’s supply of free beer. BRANDON, YOU JUST WON A YEAR’S SUPPLY OF FREE BEER! WHAT ARE YOU GONNA DO NEXT?!
“Definitely not drink it,” he joked. “Maybe give some to the batting practice pitchers or whoever wants it.”
Wow, what a waste. Imagine if Mike Napoli won free beer for a year? Not that he couldn’t afford it himself, but just to see the look of pure joy on his face when he won it.
