Seattle pitcher James Paxton can take the ball in a Game 7 anytime he wants so long as he shows the intestinal fortitude he had during the national anthem at Target Field on Thursday.
The Mariners lefty was standing in the left-field grass with hat over heart during the anthem at the Twins Home Opener when a bald eagle swooped toward him, landing on the ground about five feet in front him and then flying back towards him and landing on his right shoulder.
Paxton bent forward at one point before eventually standing tall to let the eagle enjoy its seat. Watch closely: Paxton’s feet NEVER move.
Baseball: ‘Murica’s National Pastime!
Bald Eagle lands on James “Big Maple” Paxton’s shoulder during the Twins pregame ceremony today! #Mariners pic.twitter.com/857hE5POjW
— Greatest Show on Dirt (@greatestondirt) April 5, 2018
“I’m not gonna outrun an eagle, so just thought, we’ll see what happens,” Paxton said after the game, via ESPN.
Paxton struck out 7 Twins over 5 innings but left the game after giving up a 2-run homer to Miguel Sano.
Minnesota went on to win the game 4-2.
