I just woke from my winter hiatus from baseball, which includes rigorous avoidance of this bulletin board, to learn the disturbing news here.
Certainly, the championship in Florida is impressive, and belongs to a great bunch of ballplayers and men, and to a league that has worked hard and succeeded to a point of national recognition. I remind you that John Reel is in the MSBL Hall of Fame. This is not why I am posting. It is a side bar.
I struggle to hear that two of the finest characters I know ended up in heart surgery. Bob and George stand above us in their good nature and spirit. In trying to make sense of it, I reflect on losing Jim Jordan, about Scott Card's surgery and complications last year, and Kevin Moon's situation the year before. I am reminded of my own experience and what the league showed me in support and concern. CDMSBL ballplayers Tom Maney and Jon Martin probably saved my life. I will never say that enough. I reflect on how the players around the league reacted.
I know now that strength of character and good will are not mitigating factors in incidence of heart disease. Bob and George would not be in the shape they are in. But if we survive (wish you were still with us, Jim), they are indisputably fundamental factors in recovery.
I read your posts wishing them well. They are good men. They deserve your concern and encouragement. They need it. And, it helps them heal. Your concern is invaluable.
Now, about the babes in cardiac rehab...... What do you think, survivors? Are they hot or what?
Hey Jim, Just wanted you to know that you and Maney, and Teddy Poleto and The Martin boys, are all part of our team, and to all the players that make up our travelling squad that perservered year in and year out-, when the third out was made in the championship game- I thought of you guys too. And no- you don't get a ring.
Jimmy, good to hear from you, Like you, I only go on this thing about once a year. Thanks for the kind words, getting along real well, new titanium ribs are setting nicely, so I shouldn't have to use a chest protector this year. I asked if they could equip me with a new catcher's mitt for my other hand and they smiled and gave me some verbiage about keeping quiet. Shoulder is next. Hope to see you in the spring. Take care my friend. PS, oh by the way, starting cardiac rehab tomorrow afternoon, I'll have a full formal report on your desk the day after about the personnel used to administer this rehab program. Take care buddy, Bob
