Pat Burrell’s best statistical season came when he was dating Heather Mitts; they split and he went in the tank for years. Tom Brady won Super Bowl titles while dating actress Bridget Moynahan; he’s titleless since Gisele showed up. Carl Pavano celebrated his World Series ring in 2003 with Alyssa Milano, but they split after his banner 2004 and his career was never been the same. Matt Leinart’s NFL career began with the ominous stench of Paris Hilton, and he’s yet to recover. Reggie Bush’s horrible sophomore season can be attributed to Kim Kardashian. The celebrity girlfriend hex is undeniable. (The flip also exists, but that’s another post for another day.)

Last year, Brad Penny started the season 13-1 with a 2.51 ERA while dating actress Elisha Dushku. Apparently, they split in the offseason – she’s now inexplicably with this character – and we decided to take a peek at how Penny has opened this season devoid of a celebrity girlfriend. The answer: 5-4, 5.09 ERA. He’s experiencing stiffness. If he gets roughed up today, is a DL trip in his near future?

Requisite drool-worthy Dushku shot after the jump.