In September 1997, Bruce Chen had just wrapped up a great 1998 season at low-A Macon and was tuning up his game at instructional league under the hot Florida sun. Now, a year later, Bruce is coming off an impressive finish in the major leagues. As a full- blown Atlanta Brave, Bruce has satisfied everyone with his performance in the show.
Although his first major league start was somewhat of a disappointment (he gave up four runs including two home runs), his next three games showed what he was really made of. He garnered his first major league win against the Florida Marlins on September 12, and locked up a second victory on the 21st, baffling the Diamondbacks in seven shutout innings. He only allowed three hits, and the performance was met with cheers from critics on all sides. Arizona lefthander Yamil Benitez could only say this of Chen's pitches:
"Away, away, away, away. Nothing overpowering. You just can't see it or something."
But pitching wasn't the only area Bruce excelled in during his first stint as a big leaguer. He slapped his first ML hit (a single) in the third inning of the D-Backs contest. Then in the seventh inning of the same game, he laid down a perfect suicide squeeze, scoring Javy Lopez home for an exciting first RBI.
Bruce's next start was against the NY Mets on September 25. Although it wasn't his best outing, he was definitely not shabby! He gave up 3 runs in four and a third innings, but left in the fifth with a 4-3 lead. The Braves went on to win the game 6-5; Chen was not involved in the decision.
Bruce finished the season 2-0 with a 3.98 ERA and 17 strikeouts in 20 1/3 innings: clearly exceptional numbers for a young rookie.
Bruce Chen is the future of the Atlanta Braves. For fans who are worried about Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, and Neagle getting old... well, they can be reassured when they look at this bright young Panamanian. Once again, Atlanta has found a way to become even better. Settle back and enjoy watching their newest jewel shine brighter with every coming season!
Stay tuned to the Fan Club Homepage for offseason updates!
