On June 20 Gerardo Parra began his second stint with the Washington Nationals. Much like his first in 2019, Parra brought “Baby Shark” with him. Monday while making the start, Parra sparked another round of “Baby Shark” jubilation with his first home run of the season.
Leaading off the second inning, Parra pulled a 2-2 fastball from New York Mets starter Jerad Eickhoff down the right field line, hitting the foul pole for the solo blast. The Nationals dugout joined in celebration with the “Baby Shark” chomp as the song played throughout Nats Park.
Parra’s was the third homer of the night for the Nationals and extended their lead to 3-0.
There’s a lot of similarities to Parra’s first stint in 2019. He was a May roster add while the Nationals were struggling looking for a jolt. And Parra provided it with his energy led by his introducing an entire fan base to the favored children’s song. His presence was a large part in Washington’s run to a World Series title.
After spending 2020 in Japan, Parra is back and yet again after another Nationals slow start. His belief in Washington getting back in the thick of things is part has already given new life to the club. That along with the home run tear of Kyle Schwarber.
His teammates are once again feeding off his presence. The Nationals have climbed back into postseason contention. They have won 11 of their last 14, and could be three games out of first place in the NL East with a win Monday against the Mets.
