The time has arrived.

The question to be answered – is it the beginning or the end for The D-Train?

Tonight, Dontrelle Willis will get the start, his first this season, against the Minnesota Twins.

Much has been said about his trip to the DL, brought about due to anxiety disorder. Through my previous posts about Willis, I have been harsh. But, he has shown a sincere effort to get his stuff back, and get himself back on track. For that he should be applauded, and given this opportunity with our full support.

“It’s been a traveling circus,” Willis said. “I’ve been everywhere. Trust me, it’s not as bad as what it seems, but I want to be a traveling circus in that big league uniform, like everybody else.”

If there is any precedent that has been set regarding a positive outcome, one need look no further than Zack Greinke of the Kansas City Royals.

From Wikipedia,

Greinke left the Royals spring training camp for personal reasons in late February, 2006.[1] It was later revealed that he was suffering from social anxiety disorder and depression.[2] He reported back to the Royals’ spring training facility in Surprise, Arizona, on April 17, where he underwent ongoing pitching sessions. He was placed on the 60-day disabled list due to psychological issues and took time away from baseball entirely until returning on a rehab assignment with Wichita.

Currently, Greinke has a 0.51 ERA, and is arguably the best pitcher in Major League Baseball.

When all is said and done, Willis may not be the best, but he can get back to the form he had when he was with the Marlins.

“Whatever the outcome may be, I’m going to really go out here and enjoy this game of baseball,” Willis said. “Only a few of us to get to play until we’re 35, and I’m not Tom Glavine, so I’m going to enjoy this.”

To make room on the 25 man roster for Dontrelle, Juan Rincon has been designated for assignment.