Pitcher says prank battle will continue
Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Chris Archer served Houston Astros mascot Orbit with a “Declaration of Unfriendliness” before Monday’s game at Minute Maid Park in Houston.
During pregame warmups, Archer approached Orbit and handed him an official-looking, typed document that read:
“A state of discord has existed between Chris Archer of the Tampa Bay Rays and Orbit of the Houston Astros.
“Whereas general mischief and rascality has been among Orbit’s repeated trespasses, Chris Archer is hereby resolved to carry on a campaign of pranks, gags and hijinks in retaliation which include, but are not limited to, use of objects such as: Water balloons Whipped pies Silly string Small motorized vehicles Bubblegum Hand-crafted signage And any of the considerable resources of a Major League clubhouse.”
Orbit argued with Archer, then wadded up the declaration and threw it on the ground.
Orbit decided to take matters into his own hands. Before Archer’s start against the Astros on Tuesday, Orbit gave him a chocolate bar and “electrolyte formula,” along with a card that read, “Since you’re starting today, please accept this token as an ‘olive branch’ for today. Enjoy this peace offering as you fuel up for the game.”
Rays nutritionist Ryan Harmon confiscated the items, then tweeted a photo that showed the “electrolyte formula” was actually a laxative.
“Sometimes you have to intervene when a team mascot tries to sabotage your starting pitcher,” Harmon tweeted with the photo.
Archer got a measure of revenge before Wednesday’s game, presenting Orbit with a degree from the “University of Raymond,” a nod to the Rays’ mascot Raymond. While Orbit was distracted, Archer and his teammates bombarded him with water balloons.
Orbit returned the favor during a game of “Orbit Says,” in which he tricked Archer into admitting he had passed gas.