Following the Tampa Bay Rays‘ 10–7 defeat to the Colorado Rockies on Friday, relief pitcher Pete Fairbanks expressed frustration with his grip on the baseball, attributing his struggles to the Coors Field humidor. Fairbanks walked all three batters he faced, contributing to the team’s loss, which was sealed by a walk-off grand slam surrendered by teammate Jason Adam.
During his postgame media appearance, Fairbanks criticized the consistency of the baseballs provided to him in the ninth inning, labeling them as “horrible” and emphasizing that there was “no excuse” for his performance. He noted that the baseballs were not uniform from one to another and expressed hope that they would be in better condition for the following day’s game.
Pete Fairbanks was not too happy with the consistency of the baseballs that were coming in during the bottom of the 9th. pic.twitter.com/5OHAyCVtq0
— Bally Sports Sun: Rays (@BallyRays) April 5, 2024
The use of a humidor at Coors Field, implemented in 2002, aims to maintain baseballs at a controlled temperature and humidity level due to the unique atmospheric conditions at the ballpark, situated 5,200 feet above sea level. The thin air in Denver can affect the flight of the baseball, prompting the need for such measures.
While Fairbanks voiced his concerns, Rockies pitcher Peter Lambert acknowledged differences in the baseballs at Coors Field, echoing Fairbanks’ sentiments. Despite the challenges faced, the Rays are scheduled to play two more games against the Rockies over the weekend, marking their first appearance at Coors Field in eight years.
