Emotional Tribute to His Late Father
Ben McDonald, a former MLB first-round draft pick and standout pitcher, recently took to social media to share a poignant tribute to his late father. In a heartfelt post, McDonald recounted a touching moment he experienced while hunting, which ultimately led to a significant achievement in his outdoor pursuits.
A Moment of Reflection in the Woods
On a recent hunting trip, McDonald found himself reminiscing about the cherished memories he shared with his father, who passed away in January. As he sat in his bowstand, he reflected on the countless hours they spent together — from ball fields and basketball courts to the serene deer woods.
“I normally don’t share too many of my thoughts on social media, but this is too good not to share,” McDonald wrote. “I was having a conversation with him, telling him how much I miss him and thanking him for everything he did for us and our family and the many sacrifices he made.”
The Unexpected Encounter
Just moments after drying his tears, McDonald’s somber reflection turned into an exhilarating experience. Out of nowhere, a magnificent buck appeared, drawn by the scent of a nearby doe.
“This buck could have gone anywhere in the six-acre plot but followed a doe to 24 yards under my tree,” McDonald detailed. With a steady aim, he made a successful shot, and the deer fell within seconds, an exhilarating conclusion to a deeply emotional day.
Divine Intervention or Coincidence?
McDonald interpreted this remarkable encounter as a sign of divine intervention, attributing the moment to “the man upstairs and #PawPaw.” He emphasized that for him, the great outdoors is a place of solace and comfort, where he feels most at home.
“It’s not always about the harvest; it’s about making memories!” he expressed. “This buck will always be known as #PawPaw’s Buck!”
A Lighthearted Moment
In a light-hearted addition to his post, McDonald playfully asked his followers not to inform his wife about the emotional moment he experienced while hunting. This humorous touch added a relatable aspect to his heartfelt story.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Ben McDonald’s journey in baseball began at LSU, where he became a star pitcher. He was selected first overall by the Baltimore Orioles in 1989 and went on to have a respectable career in Major League Baseball. With a career ERA of 3.91 and 894 strikeouts across 211 appearances, McDonald solidified his legacy before finishing his career with the Milwaukee Brewers in 1997.
In sharing this personal story, McDonald not only honors his father’s memory but also highlights the importance of family, reflection, and the joys of outdoor life.
