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Sayonara Salute #25: Bob Welch
When I reflect on thelate 80's, early 90'sOakland Athletics... Bob Welch tends to get lost in the shuffle. This is difficult to admit, because he was such an integral part of the team that went to three straightWorld Series.
But when they had big name players like Mark McGwire, Jose Canseco, Dennis Eckersley, and Rickey Henderson on their roster, it's hard for me to see outside of the enormous shadow they cast. And when you add all of the key role players like Walt Weiss, Dave Henderson, Dave Stewart, Carney Lansford, and Terry Steinbach... the task of remembering him isn't any easier. However from this post forward, I'm certain that remembering Mr. Welch will never be an issue again.
Yesterday in the staff lounge, one of my co-workers asked me if I had heard the news of Welch'spassing. I hadn't and as soon as I got back into my classroom, I looked the story up and read several articles. It opened my eyes and helped me remember his accomplishments during his tenure in Oakland.
I'm embarrassed to write this... but I totally forgot about his amazing1990 Cy Young Awardwinning season, when he was the starting pitcher for the American League All-Starteam and became the last pitcher to win 25 games or more in a season. I also calculated (and learned) that from 1988 to 1990, he had a 61-23 record with an ERA of 3.21. That's pretty damn impressive.
And if that isn't enough to grab your attention, he struck out Mr. October to earn the save in game two of the 1978 World Series. Not to mention his 1980 performance against the Atlanta Braves where he allowed only one hit while facing the minimum number of batters.
Rest in peace, Mr. Welch. I apologize for not appreciating everything you gave the city of Oakland and their fans twenty-plus years ago, but from this moment on... you won't be forgotten.
Happy Wednesday and sayonara!
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Attention anyone who I've traded with in the past or anyone who has generously shipped a care package in my direction. My mailing address has changed. Please email me if you'd like my new mailing address. Thank you for your time.
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