Monday, January 12, 2009

Rickey Henderson Runs to Cooperstown - 90-feet at a Time!


I remember being at the Coliseum in 1982. It was a really electric atmosphere. When Rickey got on base, you knew he was going to steal. The other team knew he was going to steal. And they still couldn't stop him. Ever. So he'd take off, Lansford would foul one off, and Rickey hustled back to first. Then, it would start all over again. Crowd chanting. Soft throw over from the opposing pitcher -- who at this point can't even begin to concentrate on Lansford up at the plate. Krazy George starts beating on his drum; the pitcher starts his windup and he's off. Before the catcher could even glove the ball, it was over. And, he'd always go in HEAD FIRST with the crowd going wild!! He'd hold his hand up to ask for time, then dust the infield dirt off his pants. AND THEN HE'D STEAL THIRD!! Great days, Rickey -- thanks for the memories of Billy-Ball!! You deserve the Hall of Fame for your great lifetime accomplishments.