Remember the Rally Monkey? The dancing monkey that turned into a cultural phenomenon while serving as the unofficial mascot of the Angels (back when they were simply from Anaheim) 2002 World Series run.
Well, it looks like the Indians are trying to capture some of the same magic, as Tribe pitcher Justin Masterson trotted out a live chicken during Cleveland’s batting practice prior to last night’s game.
Originally intended as a joke towards pitcher Cody “Chicken Al” Allen, the chicken inspired a 6-4 Indians victory, keeping Cleveland within 3.5 games of an American League Wild Card Spot.
Allen, the inspiration for the team’s gimmick, pitched an inning and a third of scoreless relief while fanning two for his eighth hold of the season.
[MLB]