My Athlete Crush: Barry Zito

Monday, April 23, 2012
Oh, come on! You know you have one too.

Let's be honest here. If it weren't for athlete crushes, women would have absolutely no reason to watch sports.

Find yourself a hottie to ogle, and your sports watching experience will be tolerable, even pleasurable.

I discovered my athlete crush about 10 years ago, shortly after Emma was born. The Hubs did the night time feedings. I'd crash into bed by 9:00 pm, and he'd stay up until 2:00 am and cover the baby feedings during that time. To keep him company, he ordered the MLB (Major League Baseball) channels on DirectTV so that he could watch the west coast games.

During one particular game, I woke and came into the room to check on things. The Hubs was watching an Oakland As game. I glanced at the TV, and did a double take when I saw the pitcher. Whoa!

Me: "Who's that guy?"

Hubs: "Why?"

Me: "No reason. Just curious."

Hubs: "You think he's good looking. Don't you?"

Me: "No. Please." Trying to muster my most serious tone.

Hubs: "You totally think he's hot. I know you!"

Me: "I mean, he's OK."

Hubs: "His name is Barry Zito, and just admit that you think he's good looking."

Me: "Fine." I said in my most casual tone. And back to bed I went.

And so, for the 10 years following that late night conversation, I've had a crush on Barry Zito. It hasn't been full-on, heavy panting for 10 years. But I've admired from afar, watched him during games, sometimes stalked him via Google and ESPN.com.

What's not to like, right?

Do you have an athlete crush?


No comments