The teams were picked and line ups were announced. I was batting third. I could not wait to hit. Hitting to me was like eating for a fat man with a tape worm. I lived for experience. I knew even before I batted that I would get a hit. I was so young and cocky! After first two guys on my team made outs, I strolled up to plate, as confident as Babe Ruth - pointing to center field in 1934 World Series when he called his famous home run. Digging in and sneering at Donnie, I was determined to smack that pill. First pitch was a high and tight fastball. . I got out of batter’s box and stared again at Donnie. I was thinking fastball for his next offering. I was right. The ball came in so big so round so slow. I could see red seams on ball. Boom! I connected on that real sweet spot on bat.

Back in day ...

I used to deal in baseball cards, and some memorabilia in mid to late 1980's. Through an old client I had opportunity to sell a very rare piece of baseball lore. The piece that I was fondest of was a rare document signed by Harry Wright. A founding father of game. The document was a contract of some player that was signed by Harry Wright, manager, circa 1870. It was written on Cincinnati Red Stocking’s letterhead.

I was impressed. I was so excited to be entrusted with this rare artifact. I remember saying to myself. “Oh my god. You have got to be kidding.” I was astonished. I was in awe. I felt like I was let into a special group.