Stephen Piscotty gets heartwarming standing ovation in Oakland

Oakland A’s outfielder Stephen Piscotty was greeted with a standing ovation from the home fans in his first at-bat since his mother Gretchen passed away.

Sports has a habit of giving players and fans moments that they will remember for the rest of their lives. This was one of those moments, one that is truly bigger than the game of baseball.

Stephen Piscotty was traded from the St. Louis Cardinals to the A’s last December after requesting to be closer to his ailing mother. A native of Pleasanton, California, Piscotty’s wish was granted.

His mother, Gretchen, was battling ALS and passed away Sunday evening. People from all around the league sent their condolences, and when Piscotty stepped to the plate for the first time since then, the fans did as well.

The fans stood and applauded Piscotty as he walked to the plate, bringing him to tears. This moving gesture is another reminder of what sports is all about. Piscotty will surely never forget this reception, and neither will many of us fans.

The whole situation has been handled with class from all parties involved. The two teams who facilitated the move and the support from players and fans alike has been truly heartwarming. Condolences to the Piscotty family during this time.

As we see quite often after tragic events, awesome things occur. As if it was meant to be, Piscotty singled during that at-bat. Just another reason to fall in love with the game of baseball. Perhaps with some of her help, Piscotty singled for his mother.

Next: Matt Harvey traded to the Reds

Yu Darvish was right: MLB really is one big family. The outreach and support seen from the league as a whole has been extraordinary. Sports really has a knack for reminding us what is important in life.