Guy Boucher Prefers Strikes

I've always liked Guy Boucher as a coach. The 41 year-old could be called "the new generation" of coaches as he's brought new ideas and done some great things with the Lightning. You have to wonder what coaches like Boucher do while this pesky lockout is going on. It's not like they can go sign in Europe or Russia and coach another team until the lockout is over. But Guy Boucher showed on Friday night that he may have talent in another area that might serve him well if the NHL remains locked out for another month or two.

Boucher played hockey when he was younger, but you have to wonder how much baseball he played. Friday night saw Boucher take to the mound to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Rays and Toronto Blue Jays played. Boucher was invited to throw out the pitch to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Tampa Bay Lightning, and it seems quite appropriate that, with the lone Canadian MLB team in town, Boucher decided to honor the game of hockey with the first "pitch".

That's a perfect strike on that wrist shot, kids. Boucher clearly has game, and shows that his wrist shot hasn't lost anything since he stepped behind the bench. In fact, the Tampa Bay Rays might want to float him a contract if he can "throw" strikes like that. A reliable guy who throws strikes out of the bullpen is a valuable commodity in Major League Baseball!

In all seriousness, I'm glad that the Rays are having a little fun with hockey while the lockout sours everyone on the game. Kudos to Mr. Boucher for his great hands, shooting a perfect strike, and for representing the Lightning organization so well. Mr. Boucher is a classy individual, and he deserves the cheers for all he's done in the Tampa Bay area.

Until next time, keep your sticks on the mound!