ST. PETERBSURG, Fla. — The two-plus years since Yonny Chirinos last pitched in the major leagues had been challenging.
“Two difficult, long years — very difficult mentally,” Chirinos explained via team interpreter Manny Navarro. “A lot of negative thoughts come into your head when you’re in a situation like that. But, thank God, I never gave up.”
Being activated off the injured list and rejoining the Rays on Tuesday was emotional and rewarding: “I couldn’t really believe it,” Chirinos said. “Even sitting in there with my teammates, it’s something that you still can’t believe that it’s happening all over again.”
