21 Comments
User's avatar
Kenneth M. Rich's avatar

What a great story. Nothing beats the thrill of victory.

Linda P's avatar

Great story Roy. You told it so well. There's nothing like a young boy and his idol. I never met him, Bud Harrelson was my childhood idol. I wanted and loved playing shortstop in Little League because of him.

Bill Diamondstone's avatar

Great tribute, Roy! I cherish the memories of my fantasy camp with Bill and so many other boyhood heroes. And you! 😄

Roy Berger's avatar

Thanks Bill….great memories. Appreciate the note and hope you guys are well.~

Randy Becker's avatar

Holy Cow, Roy, Your thoughts and writings always brings me back to fun memories from my childhood. I was 4 years old in Chicago when Maz hit the home run.....I remember the excitement in the house from my 10 year old brother and from my dad.....I guess you can go home again.

Ralph Robbins's avatar

it is amazing what an influence someone can have in your life, whether it be an athlete, teacher, or just a random acquaintance

great story, so well written

Bill Olszewski's avatar

Bill Mazeroski was something special. Meeting him at Fantasy Camp was the icing on the cake. Great memories that I will never forget.

Tony Armen's avatar

As a lifelong Pirates fan you brought back great memories. I also ran home from school just in time to see the home run. Memories of old Forbes field. Thank you.

Greg Cherok's avatar

I too remember racing home from school to watch my beloved Pirates on that day. I wore number 9 all through Little League, playing second base, when I was allowed to. Always trying to be like Maz on any play at second. A childhood hero who will be remembered forever.....

Donna Hightower's avatar

Very moving story. To me, one of your best baseball stories ever.

Jack Steele's avatar

Super story! We all have our Maz stories and thanks for your superb tribute!

Ed Murry's avatar

Well written as always, Roy. Thanks for the memories.

Labanowski, Michael E.'s avatar

Awesome. That SMC gave me chills.

Ron Campbell's avatar

Great reminiscing , but opposite feelings for me growing up a Yankees fan. Your 1st Camp also allowed me to stick you with a "K" for the 1st time.

Rick's avatar

Thank you you Roy for a very enjoyable Sunday read..

Fred Mccormack's avatar

One swing of the bat,.

Roy I look forward to Sunday morning just to read your blog

It just so happens this week when your blog came out I’m watching a league of their own and funny how one swing of the bat brought family together brought teammates together

That same swing broke cards, but more importantly, Team and family stood out as one of the greatest things about sports

The story is so wonderful about how 60 years later that swing can bring you back to running around the block, screaming, and yelling

I’ve known you for a lot of years if you have a way of writing that makes me picture what you’re doing

Roy Berger's avatar

You are too kind Fred. Hope you are feeling better,pal.

Jeffrey Carter's avatar

How do you know he was a right handed hitter? Chew was in the left cheek.

Roy Berger's avatar

I learn something new every Sunday morning. Thanks Jeff.