Two Class Acts Get Their Due

Today, two of Major League Baseball’s most popular players and all-around good guys got the call that everybody expected them to receive in this, their first year of eligibility.

It was long distance from Cooperstown. The two are now Hall of Famers.

Cal Ripken, Jr. and Tony Gwynn were rare breeds. Not only did they put up fantastic numbers playing the game they loved, they were—and still are—two of the most humble athletes one would ever cross paths with. I can’t recall how many times I witnessed both sign autographs or take pictures with fans, either at home or on the road.

And they did it willingly, knowing that as professional athletes and ambassadors of the game of baseball, they had a responsibility to show kids and adults alike that they were still human. They set an example of perseverence, respect, and sportsmanship that is all too difficult to find in this day and age. There’s a good chance we’ll never see the likes of either one ever again.

The banner above is comprised of two photos I took of Ripken and Gwynn in Anaheim, CA. The Ripken image was shot during his last trip to Anaheim, when he signed as many autographs as he could before he had to get to work. After that night’s game, as he had done throughout his final season, I witnessed Ripken jog down the lines and shake the hands of and high-five fans. Those images are stored away somewhere but let me tell you—it was a moment I’ll never forget.

And then there’s Gwynn. Another class act, I watched him take BP from the best seat in the house—behind the batting cage. It was a thing of beauty to see this hometown hero (Long Beach, CA) take his cuts. Not only is Gwynn a humble man, he’s also one of the best color commentators around. Joe Morgan’s got absolutely nothing on him. And Gwynn’s laugh is downright infectious. It’s no wonder I named my son Anthony in honor of the Mr. Padre.

So congrats to two of the finest guys to ever set foot on the diamond. It’s a surprise to nobody, but it’s definitely reason to celebrate.