Born in Vietnam and brought up in America, Daniel Peter Graves is one of the best-known relief pitchers in the world of baseball. After joining the Cincinnati Reds, his career considerably strengthened and led him to the zenith of his game.
However, in the year 2005, something extremely strange happened and changed his career course for life. This moment involved a fan, but the impact of the situation fell on Graves’ side alone. Let us learn what the controversy was all about!
What was the Danny Graves controversy all about?
Being a prominent MLB figure, Danny Graves was known to be one of the best relief pitchers of all time. He was a part of the Cincinnati Reds, and his time with them really sharpened his game and helped him become better with every game he played.
The years of 1990s and 2000s were the golden period of flourishment for this baseball star. Making his debut with the Cleveland Indians in the year 1996, he was a decent player. Later on, he was shifted to the Reds in 1997.
Danny graves in a grave situation as the controversy erupts, bringing the downfall of his career. (Credits: Cleveland 19)
One would clearly remember his game between 1999 to 2004 when he managed an average of 32 saves in a year with a 2.97 ERA. He was a star at that time, and his career graph was going up. But something unexpected happened during the match, causing his downfall.
In the month of May 2005, he was fighting against the Cleveland Indians. After the trail of home runs, it felt as if a fan cussed or passed a slur to Graves.
Leaving his game aside, the infuriated Graves gave no two seconds to think again before reacting. As soon as he heard it, he made an extremely obscene gesture at him, which the whole stadium noticed. As a result, he was ejected from the game immediately.
What impact did Danny Graves’ controversy have on his career?
Danny Graves’ controversy did not leave the minds of the people and the headlines altogether. The damage it did to his professional reputation can’t even be thought of. But one thing was sure, the damage was done, and there was no way things could be turned back to being the same again.
After his suspension from MLB, he was fined as well. In the same year, he was no longer a part of the Cincinnati Reds. Although he joined the New York Mets in 2006, he could not do wonders there.
Later on, he also got the opportunity to join hands with the Houston Astros and the Cleveland Indians. But they hardly helped him. The career that fell saw no rise after the incident.
Trying to make peace with his past, Grave has been seen doing sports analysis and commentary. He also co-hosted a baseball podcast – “The Danny Graves Full Count Baseball Show.”
The incident that took place ended his career earlier than it should normally have. However, he stayed connected with the game even if he could not play. He definitely was a great pitcher and continues to stay updated about the baseball world.
