An important member of the Kansas City Royals bench is calling it quits. Yes, Rally Mantis II is retiring.
The beloved arthropod became a fixture appearing following the untimely death of Rally Mantis I. The first iteration showed up in the Royals’ dugout in early August. The mantis initially appeared on outfielder Billy Burns’ hat. His appearance coincided with an impressive winning streak, but after being brought on the road, he died in Minnesota. Rally Mantis II showed up in its stead and was ensnared in the dugout. Rally Mantis II brought renewed passion to the Royals. Now, he’s sailing off in style.
The Royals released an official statement on Rally Mantis, revealing the organization would rather it live out its short remaining lifespan comfortably in a nature center instead of being brought on long road trips.
The mantis will not perish in Minn this time. He's been pardoned. #FreeRally Here's the team's "official" statement pic.twitter.com/qulL87AJXz
— Joel Goldberg (@goldbergkc) September 5, 2016
Don’t worry, though; the Royals still plan on gouging prices to sell Rally Mantis merchandise. There are serious questions to whether the Royals believed in Mantis I and Mantis II’s good luck or just wanted to make a quick buck off his presence. Let’s not forget they charge a ridiculous $45 for a plastic mantis mask. It’s almost disrespectful to their legacies.
Kansas City is doing the right thing by letting Mantis II frolic among other bugs. Mantises live for roughly 4-6 months, so let’s hope Mantis II can make it long enough to see the Royals play postseason ball.
