Great piece on Al Doran at Bob Otto's "Otto in Focus RICHMOND HILL, ONTARIO – In the world of fastball, Al Doran is known as a visionary, a game changer, a technology expert. And if you were to fix a title on him, “Friend of Fastball,” fits pretty well. For he certainly has been that and more; especially to the International Softball Congress (ISC) and legions of fastball … [Read more...]
Steamer Flanagan Postscript – Mystery of the Babe Ruth ball
Yesterday, I posted my annual homage to James "Steamer" Flanagan (1881-1947), my namesake who had a cup of coffee in the major leagues as a September call up for the 1905 Pittsburgh Pirates, as a teammate of Hall of Famer Honus Wagner. Starting with my acquisition of my 1905 Steamer baseball card, his story has been one of interest to me. This year, I decided to dig a little … [Read more...]
Happy Birthday, Steamer Flanagan (1881-1947)
It's April 20, so that means it's time for me to pay homage to my namesake, James "Steamer" Flanagan, whose 28 at bats represents but a cup of coffee in the bigs, but nonetheless a spot in the Baseball Almanac. (and a long career compared to Moonlight Graham) Today is Steamer's birthday. I know. 420 is a funny birthday to have. But on April 20, 1881, I'm doubtful that … [Read more...]
42
When most people in the United States think of April 15th, the first thing that comes to mind is "tax day". But there is a much bigger reason to remember the day, which is Jackie Robinson Day across the country, celebrating the man who broke the color barrier in baseball, and in a larger way, in society. The number "42" is of course, the number that Jackie wore, and a number … [Read more...]
OC Heart Walk Saturday March 7th at Anaheim Stadium
From Roberta Thompson, wife of the late Dewey Thompson, who passed away during a fastpitch game in March 2004 in Palm Springs, California. We encourage readers to contribute to the cause, In Memory of Dewey Thompson Please support Dwight's HeartLights Please take a minute to support Dwight's HeartLights!! As some of you know we lost a great man, Dwight Thompson on … [Read more...]
R.I.P. Minnie Minoso (1925-2015)
The great Minnie Minoso, nicknamed "The Cuban Comet" and known to many as "Mr. White Sox" has passed away at the age of 89. Minoso was the first black player for the Chicago White Sox, making his debut in late 1948, hitting a home run in his first major-league at-bat. He led the American League in stolen bases three times, and was a member of the so called "Go-Go Sox", known … [Read more...]
4 Days Left to Fund completion of Dave Blackburn film , “The King and Me”
Just 4 Days Left to Fund completion of Dave Blackburn film , "The King and Me". A story of fastpitch softball competition team spirit and one man’s conquest to triumph over tragedy Click here for more information and/or to help with the funding. The 4 minute video below is the centerpiece of the original IndieGoGo Crowd funding Campaign for the Documentary Film … [Read more...]