Home Runs & Horan: Will Ferrell: Semi-Pro Baseball Player

Today, actor and comedian, Will Ferrell set out on a mission to play all 9 positions (and DH) in Cactus League games. He played for 10 teams, including the A's, Mariners, Angels, Cubs, White Sox, Giants, Diamondbacks, Reds, Padres, and Dodgers. Ferrell was filming a special for HBO in collaboration with Funny or Die, to honor Bert "Campy" Campaneris for being the first player to play all 9 positions in one game. He also raised funds for "Cancer for College" and "Stand Up to Cancer," two charities that he holds close to his heart.

Ferrell began his day at HoHoKam Stadium, Spring Training home of the Oakland Athletics. When approached by media he said he was not available for comment, due to the fact that he was "in beast mode." He spent the morning being locker mates with Sonny Gray and working out with the team. While on the field for stretches, he got to know his new teammates and offered to go get them "burritos and Red Bull." On Twitter, several A's players posted pictures with Ferrell in the clubhouse, including Josh Reddick who dressed up as "Turd Ferguson." After taking Marcus Semien's spot in the lineup, Ferrell told him, "I could catch fire today and you could be on a bus back to Triple-A."

After playing an inning at shortstop for the A's behind Scott Kazmir, Billy Beane and Bob Melvin broke the news to Will that he had been traded to the Seattle Mariners. He was shocked, telling Beane and Melvin, "I gave you blood, sweat, and tears for four hours!" He then changed into a Mariners jersey, moved into Seattle's dugout and played for them at second base.

The next game for Ferrell was Anaheim/Chicago. He proceeded to play first base for the Cubs as well as complete a stint as their third base coach, where he gave Addison Russell one of the most intense pep talks I have ever seen. He got an at bat with the Cubs as well, but unfortunately struck out. He then took over Mike Trout's duties at center field for the Angels.

Next up was Cincinnati/Arizona. He played left field for the D-Backs and third base for the Reds. He
even bought hot dogs for an entire section of fans.

Later in the evening, Ferrell arrived by helicopter at the game between Chicago/San Francisco. He was given another at bat as the White Sox designated hitter, but once again recorded a strike out. He then got into catcher's gear and switched dugouts. Fortunately for Ferrell, being a member of the San Francisco Giants came and went quickly, due to the fact that pitcher, Jean Machi decided to intentionally walk the White Sox batter.

The final game of Ferrell's night was San Diego/Los Angeles. He pitched to one batter for the Dodgers, and got a 1-3 groundout. Don Mattingly removed him from the game, then Ferrell talked with Tommy Lasorda and introduced him to his children. Will then accused his Dodgers teammates of giving his kids chewing tobacco and Mountain Dew. He finished his tenure as a Dodger by knocking over things in the dugout in a fit of rage and emotion. He completed his big day by playing right field for the Padres to honor the late, great Tony Gwynn. Stay classy, San Diego.

As a huge "Campy" fan, I am super excited to see the finished HBO special. I think #FerrellTakesTheField was a very entertaining and important event not only for baseball, but for all of the sports world. Not only did Will help raise money for two very significant charities, but he also was able to honor one of the best baseball players ever in a very unconventional way.

So, the next time someone tries to tell you that Will Ferrell isn't a MLB superstar, you can tell them that they sit on a throne of lies.