MLB’s first annual “Players Weekend” closed out on Sunday, where players throughout baseball enjoyed the chance to don personalized jerseys with select nicknames printed on the back in place of their traditional last names.
Many Giants players embraced the opportunity to express themselves, with names ranging from Shark, Horse, and even Wawindaji (which apparently is Swahili for “hunter,”, according to Hunter Pence). But Mark Melancon sparked a tad bit of controversy when he debuted his name of choice — Stretch — in what was meant to be a joke in reference to a news story that broke out earlier in the year, saying that Melancon had caused some stir in the clubhouse when he didn’t stretch with the rest of the relievers before each game.
The Giants and Melancon laughed the story off, with Bruce Bochy famously dismissing it as “mouse turds.” However, many Giants fans expressed frustration once Melancon’s jersey was unveiled, stating that the only “Stretch” is Hall-of-Famer Willie McCovey.
Turns out that despite his weekend nickname, Melancon agreed. He paid tribute to McCovey Monday morning by posting three pictures of McCovey along with a heartfelt caption to his Instagram and Twitter page.
Melancon’s caption read: “Now that Players Weekend is over, I want to pay tribute the man that is the only “Stretch” in San Francisco – Willie McCovey. It was a pure honor to speak with Mr. McCovey during Spring Training and learn so much about @SFGiants history from him. He’s one of the greatest to ever play the game. I can’t imagine ever having fans name an actual body of water after me! I wanted to just have some fun with the name over the weekend based on rumors from earlier this year, but there is and always will be only one “Stretch” – Willie McCovey. Thank you Mr. McCovey for all you have done for this franchise and city! I’m proud to wear the same uniform as you #WeAreSF”
After a mostly dismal first year with the Giants, where he has spent most of the season on the disabled list, Melancon has finally begun to show signs of the closer that the Giants envisioned when they signed him to a four-year, $62 million contract. Since his return from the DL on August 12, Melancon has struck out seven over six innings and has yet to allow an earned run.
