The Kansas City Royals were very excited to find that they had their very own Rally Mantis. Unfortunately, the experience was short lived, and Kansas City players are paying tribute to their fallen comrade.
The mantis first appeared at Kauffman Stadium last Saturday, and with the Royals immediately going on a winning streak, the players immediately boxed it up and took it with them on their road trip.
On Friday, however, things took a turn for the worse. The caged Rally Mantis fell ill. Here is the saddest of tales, as told by beat writer Rustin Dodd of the Kansas City Star.
The Royals' Rally Mantis appears to have fallen ill. Genuine concern in the clubhouse. "He gone," Ed Volquez said. "We need another one."
— Rustin Dodd (@rustindodd) August 12, 2016
Billy Burns has been watching over the Rally Mantis. Googled some info on the subject. Slept alongside it last night.
— Rustin Dodd (@rustindodd) August 12, 2016
But the Mantis wasn't moving in its cage this afternoon, which caused a ruckus in the clubhouse. "He's dying!!!" Ian Kennedy screamed.
— Rustin Dodd (@rustindodd) August 12, 2016
That was the end of the mantis, who helped lead the Royals to a 5-1 record in the six games he was with them.
Royals pitcher Danny Duffy made a memorial video for the Rally Mantis, which was shared by teammate Dillon Gee.
Take a Sec and watch this video! Video credit: Danny Duffy. pic.twitter.com/JT4745RgeC
— Dillon Gee (@DillonGee35) August 13, 2016
Logan Morrison should be thankful that he is not a part of this team.
