JACKIE ROBINSON BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY

January 31st is the best day of the year for legendary baseball birthdays---Jackie Robinson, Ernie Banks and Nolan Ryan all born on the same day. I have weeks where I don't get any players of note but three in one day.

What can we say about Jackie Robinson that has not already been said. Not only is he the most courageous player in baseball history, not only did he fight discrimination and bigotry every step of the way, but what we forget about him was that he was also a hell of a baseball player.

This is best encapsulated by a Duke Snider quote.

"Jackie Robinson was the greatest competitor I've ever seen."
--Duke Snider

SANDY AMOROS BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 30TH

Brooklyn Dodger outfielder, Sandy Amoros was born on this day in 1930. Amoros had a fairly average career though he did play in the majors from 1952--1960.

However to Brooklyn Dodger fans (as my dad was), he made one of the greatest and most clutch catches in baseball history. Game 7 of the 1955 World Series--Yankees/Dodgers. The Yankees were the Dodgers World Series nemesis as the guys from Flatbush seemingly could never beat the Yankees no matter how good their roster was.

But it is Game 7, 6th inning with the Dodgers winning 2--0 behind the Johnny Podres masterpiece. First two Yankees get on base. Then Mr. Clutch Yogi Berra was up. Yogi hits a shot to the left field corner certain to be a double. Out of the blue, Sandy Amoros comes racing over to make the catch and then doubled up Gil McDougal. The Dodgers went on to win the game and the catch became one of the most famous in baseball history.

In honor of the catch, Sandy Amoros gets our Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day,

"See that little guy, he can hit a ball further for a man his size than anyone I ever saw."
--Roy Campanella, talking about Sandy Amoros

STEVE SAX BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTES OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 29TH

Long time major league second baseman, Steve Sax was born on this day in 1960. Sax lasted a  long time in the majors and was a terrific hitting second baseman.

A lot of his fourteen year career was spent with the Dodgers but he also played for the Yankees, White Sox and briefly for the A's. He was a two time World Champion, five time all-start and the 1982 National League Rookie of the Year. He had 444 career stolen bases and a career batting average of .281.  All very impressive numbers. Plus he had a very quick wit which you will shortly see on display with his quotes.

The only criticism leveled against Sax as a player was his fielding. He had all kinds of throwing problems at second base which resulting in some large error totals. He did get better as years went on.

For being a terrific player and a funny guy, Steve Sax is today's recipient of the Baseball Quote of the Day,

"What was I supposed to say? Glad you got over Watergate."
--Steve Sax, after Richard Nixon said that he was glad Sax got over his throwing issues

"I could wind up at second. I could wind up at third, or I could wind up working at the snack bar."
--Steve Sax, on spring training later in his career

BILL WHITE BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY

One of baseball's true renaissance men, Bill White was born on this day in 1934. White spent most of his career with the Cardinals as a first basemen---he also spent several years with the Phillies as well.

He was a terrific player as reflected by his 8 all-star game appearances and 7 Gold Gloves. Many of us from the NYC area remember him most as the voice of the Yankees for many years along with Frank Messer and the Scooter.

To cap his great baseball career, he spent several years as the President of the National League. He was truly a baseball Renaissance man who is very worth of our Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day.

"Winfield robbed Armas of at least a home run."
--Bill White, after Dave Winfield leaped into the stands to rob Tony Armas of a home run

JOHN LOWENSTEIN BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE

Happy Birthday to one of the characters of the game---John Lowenstein. Two of baseball's top characters in back to back birthdays---Bob Uecker yesterday and John Lowenstein today.

He was born on this day in 1947. Lowenstein lasted a long time as a professional hitter. He played for the Indians form 1970-77, Rangers in 1978 and the Orioles from 1979--1985. He is a member of the Orioles Hall of Fame.

During his career, he was also regarded as one of the funniest men in baseball.

Check out this great quote by Lowenstein:

"The secret to keep winning streaks going is to maximize the victories while at the same time minimizing the defeats."
--John Lowenstein

BOB UECKER BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE

Happy Birthday to one of the funniest players in the history of baseball. Bob Uecker was the clown prince of baseball. No one was ever more successful than Uecker in transforming a mediocre career into post career success.

In honor of the great Ueck, we have included two of his all-time funniest quotes. For more great Uecker quotes, go to www.baseballquotations.com

"When I asked the baseball writers why they haven't selected me to the Hall of Fame, they told me they thought I was still playing."

"They broke it to me gently. The manager came over to me before the game and told me they didn't allow visitors in the clubhouse."
--On how he found out he was retired

WALLY BUNKER BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 25

Not a lot of great baseball stars born on January 25th. The top pitcher born on this day was Wally Bunker. Bunker pitched from 1963 through 1971 first with the Orioles and then with the Royals. Highlights of his career were his great rookie season with the Orioles and a World Series victory in 1966, pitching a 1-0 victory over the Dodgers in Game 3. He had a lifetime record of 60-52.

Currently, he and his wife are illustrators of children's books.

He must have been a good pitcher in his time because he got the attention of Mickey Mantle.

"Bunker has one of those sinkers you can break your bat on."
--Mickey Mantle, talking about Wally Bunker's sinker.

JANUARY 24TH BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY: ROB DIBBLE

Rob Dibble, one of the original Nasty Boys https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nasty_Boys_(Cincinnati_Reds) along with Norm Charlton and Randy Myers, formed the corp of the Reds 1990 World Series relief pitching leadership. Dibble was born on January 24th, 1964.

He pitched for the Reds from 1988--1993 and played in '95 with the White Sox and Brewers. He was a two time All-Star and the MVP of the 1990 NLCS. He helped lead the Reds to a four game sweep in the 1990 World Series, winning Game 2.

At the time, he was also the fastest player to get to 500 strikeouts in the fewest inning with 368. Craig Kimbrel has since broken that record. After his baseball career, he has been an announcer and commentator with his own radio show in Hartford.

He was a wild player with a great throwing arm and a big temper as well. He was a character of the game and his manager Lou Piniella recognized that with the Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day,

"I tell him something, it goes in one ear, hit something hard and bounces back."
--Lou Piniella, talking about Rob Dibble

HILARIOUS FRANK SULLIVAN BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY

One time Boston Red Sox Pitcher and very funny guy, Frank Sullivan was born on this day in 1930. He played with the Red Sox from 1953-1960 and was the 1955 American League wins leader. He was traded before the 1961 season to the Phillies for former NBA player Gene Conley. Sullivan was 6 foot 6 and Conley was 6 foot 8 making it one of the tallest trades in baseball history.

After the Phillies, Sullivan played for the Twins. His career record was 97 and 100 with a 3.60 ERA. He was a very funny guy that belied his great pitching ability. When he was asked the best way to pitch to Mickey Mantle, he said, "With tears in my eyes"

Another interesting fact about Sullivan was that he was featured in the 1955 Norman Rockwell painting titled The Rookie alongside Ted Williams. Last year, the original of that painting was sold for $22.5 million dollars.

For his wit and strong pitching acumen, Frank Sullivan is our Birthday Baseball Quote of the Day.

"I'm in the twilight of a mediocre career."
--Frank Sullivan, on the final years of his career.

CARLOS RUIZ BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 22

Happy Birthday to long time catcher Carlos Ruiz, born on this day in 1979. Ruiz had much of his success with the Phillies who he played for from 2008-2016.

During the 2016 season, he was traded to the Dodgers for A.J. Ellis. This year he signed as a free agent with the Mariners. He is a veteran solid all-around catcher with a career batting average of .266. He was a key cog in the Phillies 2008 World Series victory.

He is also tied with Jason Varitek for most caught no-hitters with four. Quite a record.

For his consistent leadership and solid numbers, Carlos Ruiz is the Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day.

"He's a great player and he proves it day in and day out."
--Cliff Lee

MIKE KRUKOW JANUARY 21 BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE

Happy Birthday wishes to long time announcer and 124 career game winner, Mike Krukow, born on this day in 1952.

Krukow had an excellent career as a starting pitcher with the Cubs, Phillies and the Giants. 1986 was his best year as he was 20-6 and finished third in the Cy Young voting.

After his retirement, he became a commentator with the Giants in the early 90's. He has been with them ever since and he and Duane Kuiper remain a very funny announcing duo for the Giants.

The Baseball Quote of the Day is one of the many funny Mike Krukow quotes.

"It's like Noah's wife told him--'Now, honey it's going to stop raining one of these days'."
--Mike Krukow, on the Giants losing a game 21--3

OZZIE GUILLEN BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY

Happy Birthday to one of the great characters of baseball---Ozzie Guillen who was born on this day in 1964.

Though he played for several teams, Guillen was known largely for his days as the White Sox Shortstop. On top of that he was Rookie of the Year, a 3 time all-star and a Gold Glove winner.

Of course, he cemented his relationship as an all time White Sox great by managing them in 2005 to a World Series victory. Their first one since 1917. On top of all this, Guillen is one of all-time funniest players in baseball history.

As a great player and manager and a man with a great wit, Ozzie Guillen gets the Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day.

"What attracted me to my wife is she's hot. She's also nice, she's a great mom, but that comes after she's hot."
--Ozzie Guillen

Check out over twenty hilarious Guillen quotes at www.baseballquotations.com

BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY RICH GALE

Whenever I thought about Rich Gale, the first thing I thought of was his height. I mean the man was Randy Johnson huge---6'7''

Gale was a good pitcher who started his career with the Royals and ended up on several teams. His rookie year was his best year  with a 14-8 ERA. His career record was 78--81. He also had a great sense of humor as you can tell from this quote.

"My fastball, my slider, my ERA and my blood pressure."
--Rich Gale, in response to being asked 'what was up with him?'

CURT FLOOD BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 18TH

Though he known more for his off the field activities, Curt Flood was a hell of a ballplayer. He played most of his career with the Cardinals. He hit over .300 7 times, 7 times Gold Glove Award winner and 3 time all-star.

All those accomplishmetns and he is still known most for his refusing to be traded by the Cardinals to the Phillies after the 1969 season. His refusal to be traded set in motion the change to the reserve clause. Baseball has never been the same.

Without a doubt, he is one of the most influential figures in baseball history. For his great play and contribution to the game, Curt Flood is today's featured Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day.

"Everybody thinks of baseball as a sacred cow. When you have the nerve to challenge it, people look down their noses at you. There's a lot of things wrong with a lot of industries. Baseball is one of them."
--Curt Flood

TREVOR BAUER BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY

Happy Birthday to Indians pitcher Trevor Bauer, born on this day in 1991 (I'm getting old).

Bauer was a former college pitcher of the year at UCLA and was selected third in the draft by the Diamondbacks. In 2012, he was part of a three team deal and ended up with the Indians.

In 2016 for the Indians, he was 12 and 8 in the regular season. The post season was a different story and he became famous as the first major league player who had a drone related injury. Of course, the best part about that was a great quote from his manager Terry Francona, which is the Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day.

"It's kind of self-explanatory. I think everybody here (the press corp) at some point or other had a drone related problem."
--Terry Francona, discussing Trevor Bauer's unfortunate drone related injury

ALBERT PUJOLS BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY

Happy Birthday to one of the greatest hitters of all-time, Albert Pujols, born on this day in 1980.

Pujols is not just one of the greatest players of this generation, but he is one of the greatest players of any generation.

He first made his mark in the majors in his rookie year of 2001, when all he did was win the National League Rookie of the Year Award with the Cardinals. All told, he played with the Cardinals until 2011. During that time frame, he was MVP 3 times, was an All-Star 9 times, the National League Batting Champion, 2 time Gold Glove winner, 2 time National League Home Run Leader and helped lead the Cardinals to two World Series.

He signed as a free agent with the Angels before the 2012 season. All told, he has a career .309 batting average, 2825 hits and 591 home runs, and he still has several years ahead of him.

With performances like that, there is no doubt that he is one of the greatest of all-time. For his great contribution to the game, he is today's recipient of the Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day.

"Arguably, the best hitter who's ever lived."
--Carlos Pena

BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY: BOBBY GRICH

Bobby Grich was born on this day in 1949. He was a terrific second baseman who played for the Orioles from 1970-76 and the Angels from 1977-86.

Grich was a six time All-Star, four time Gold Glove Award Winner and 1981 Home Run leader (strike shortened season). He had 1833 career hits. Most impressively, he had a .997 fielding percentage in 1981.

The clutch hitter and great fielder is still discussed for the Hall of Fame given that his numbers are comparable or not better than several second basemen already in the Hall.

For his great play, he is today's recipient of the Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day. I have quotes that extol his virtues at www.baseballquotations.com  but wanted to provide a humorous one today

"The bad thing about big league baseball is all the travel. All you can do in the big cities is shop. The good thing is you can afford it."
--Bobby Grich

Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day---Terry Forster

Solid relief pitcher Terry Forster was born on this day in 1952.

Forster played for several teams over the years but he broke in and spent the formative part of his career with the White Sox. All told, he played for 16 seasons and had 127 career saves. In 1974, he was the American League save leader.

He also became famous for being picked on by David Letterman because of his weight issues. Letterman once called him a fat tub of goo." Rather then becoming offended, Forster was a good sport and actually would appear on Letterman's show and make fun of his girth.

In honor of an excellent pitcher with a good sense of humor, Terry Forster gets the Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day.

"A waist is a terrible thing to mind."
--Terry Forster

BOB FORSCH BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 13TH

On this day in 1950, long time Cardinal pitcher Bob Forsch was born.

Forsch was a terrific pitcher from 1974--1988 with the Cardinals then he spent the last two years of his career with the Astros.

Forsch had 168 career wins. Among the many highlights of his career included  a 20 game winning season in 1977, two time Silver Slugger Award winner (he had 12 career home runs) and two no hitters. His brother Ken was also a good pitcher who pitched a no-hitter.

Forsch was an ultimate professional who was very much respected by teammates and opponents. He died way too young in 2011.

In honor of his terrific career and his January 13th birthday, he is today's recipient of the Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day.

"He was a great leader and one of the best competitors I've ever played with at any level."
--Willie McGee

BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY: DONTRELLE WILLIS

Happy Birthday to the D-Train, Dontrelle Willis. Few pitchers in recent baseball history pitched with as much flair and joy as Willis. He was a charismatic personality who had several terrific years.

His career record was a solid 72-69, but the arc of his career was with the Marlins. In 2003, he was 14 and 6 and was Rookie of the Year. The Marlins also run the World Series that year.

His best year was in 2005, when he finished second in the Cy Young Voting with a 22 and 10 record and a 2.63 E.R.A.

He was well loved by fans and people would come to the ballpark to watch his unorthodox pitching style. On a personal note, my son and I had the opportunity to meet him when he was with the Marlins and he could not have been more personable (no surprise).

Happy Birthday to the D-Train and congratulations on receiving the Birthday Baseball Quote of the Day.

"The guy was fun, fun to catch. I don't think anybody in Miami had seen anyone like him before."
--Mike Redmond

MAX CAREY BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 11

On January 11th, 1890, baseball Hall of Famer Max Carey was born. He played most of his career with the Pirates from 1910--1926. Spent the rest of 1926-1929 with the Brooklyn Robins.

He had a lifetime batting average of .285 with over 2600 hits. He was most known for his great speed and stolen base ability. He had 738 career steals and was the 10 x National League stolen base leader.

As an outfielder he was second all-time in outfield assists for center field. Of course he is also first all-time in errors by a centerfield.

Because of his great speed, leadership and stolen base records, he is the Baseball Quote of the Day recipient.

"He was just as fast between the ears as he was with his feet. That's what made him harder to stop than a run in a silk stocking."
--Joe Williams, talking about Max Carey

WILLIE MCCOVEY BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 10

Happy Birthday to the great Hall of Famer, Willie McCovey, born on this day in 1938. Stretch played for the Giants, Padres and A's. Of course though he was known for his long career with the Giants.

McCovey was one of the most feared power hitters of all-time. 521 career home runs, 1969 MVP, 6 x all-star, 3 x Home Run leader, 1959 Rookie of the Year and voted into the Hall of Fame in 1986.

His Number 44 was retired by the Giants and the cove behind Right Field at AT and T Park is aptly named McCovey Cove. I remember as a kid, there was no one in baseball more feared than McCovey and he always seemed to hit at least one home run a game against the Mets.

In honor of the birthday of baseball legend, Willie McCovey, he gets the Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day. Lots to choose from. Go to www.baseballquotations.com for a large selection.

"If you pitch to him, you'll ruin baseball. He'd hit 80 home runs. There's no comparison between McCovey and everyone else in the league."
--Sparky Anderson

OTIS NIXON BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 9

Happy January 9th birthday to Otis Nixon, born on this day in 1959. Not a lot of great players born today. Nixon has the most hits of any player born this day and Stan Javier has the most home runs.

Nixon played in the majors from 1983--1999. He played for ten teams and had 620 career stolen bases and a lifetime batting average of a very respectable .270. In 1991, he tied the major league record with six stolen bases in a game. He is also the player with the most career stolen bases who has never been voted to an all-star team.

He gets our very funny quote of the day. Thanks to Andy Van Slyke.

"Get the Presidents out of the game. If I come up and see Joe Carter out there, I'll give up."
--Andy Van Slyke, on being robbed of hits by Otis Nixon and Claudel Washington

BRUCE SUTTER BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 8

Happy Birthday to Baseball Hall of Famer, Bruce Sutter, one of the games most dominant relief pitchers of all-time.

Sutter's forkball was one of the most hardest to hit pitches of all-time. It led to him being the fourth relief pitcher to enter the Hall of Fame. He spent most of his career with the Cubs and Cardinals, though he also played for the Braves at the end of his career.

He led the National League in saves five times, was a six time all-star and was the National League Cy Young Award winner in 1979. An all-time great career.

"Will you please check that ball? I've never seen anything like it."
--Lee Lacy, on Sutter's Forkball

Tony Conigliaro Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day for January 7th

On this day in 1945, Tony Conigliaro was born. Many baseball fans know the story of Tony C. How he started out with such a promising career---1964 Rookie of the Year, 1965 led the American League in Home Runs, became the second fastest player behind Mel Ott to hit 100 home runs.

Then everything changed on August 18th, 1967 when he was hit in the eye on a pitch from Jack Hamilton. The promising career of a future superstar was never the same though he did come back a few years later and won the American League Comeback Player of the Year Award.

Sadly he retired after one year with the Angels in 1971 and passed away at the age of 45.

A Massachusetts native; there were few people in the history of the Red Sox as loved as Tony C.

In honor of his greatness and his birthday, he is today's baseball birthday quote of the day.

"If we improves much more, they won't have a league for him."
--Billy Herman, talking about Tony Conigliaro

EARLY WYNN BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 6TH

Happy Birthday to Hall of Famer Early Wynn. Wynn won exactly 300 games in his 23 year career. He played in four decades from 1939--1963.

He was a 9 x all-star and the 1959 Cy Young Award winner. He had a reputation as a nasty guy who never had any problem intimidating hitters. He was as tough as they came.

When he was asked if he'd even give his mother a good pitch to hit, Wynn said, "No. Don't forget, mother was a hell of a hitter."

Happy Birthday Early Wynn.

CHARLIE HOUGH BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 5

Hilarious knuckle ball pitcher extraordinaire, Charlie Hough turns 68 today. He retired in his mid 40's after playing for several teams, most notably the Dodgers from 1970-1980 and the Texas Rangers from 1980--1990. He is in the Rangers Hall of Fame.

He had a career record of 216 and 216. He is 85th in all-time wins. He is 51st all time in inning pitched and 44th in strikeouts.Very impressive. Even more impressive is the knuckleballer's sense of humor he displayed throughout his career.

For his consistent play and his sense of humor, Charlie Hough is today's recipient of the Birthday Baseball Quote of the Day

"They say most good managers were mediocre players. I should be a helluva manager."
--Charlie Hough

Lots more Hough quotes at www.baseballquotations.com

KRIS BRYANT--BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 4

Happy 25th Birthday to Kris Bryant. I know if you go through the history books, you will likely find someone who had a better first two years than Bryant, but I for the life of me can't think of anyone who has done what he has done.

2015 ROY, 2016 MVP,--leads the Cubs to their first World Series in 108 years. The throw he made to first for the final out of the World Series will be iconic for years to come.

As a baseball fan, I am excited for years to come to watch him play. The future is limitless.

In honor of two incredible years and the many great years ahead, Kris Bryant is our Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day.

"He's a great player. I expect him to do great things in his career--hopefully not against us."
--Randall Grichuk, Cardinal Outfielder, talking about Kris Bryant

FRENCHY BORDAGARY BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY

Frenchy Bordagary was born on this day in 1910. He was one of the true characters of his era. He played from 1934--1945 for several teams including the Brooklyn Dodgers.

He was a good ballplayer but he was known more for his off field activities. He was an actor in the off season and a very funny guy. He created a lot of controversy back in the day by sporting a mustache.

His wit is on full display in the Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day,

"It was more than I expectorated."
--on being fined fifty dollars for spitting.

EDGAR MARTINEZ BASEBALL BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 2ND

Happy Birthday to arguably the greatest Designated Hitter of All-Time, Edgar Martinez (Papi fans may disagree). Edgar Martinez was born on this day in 1963 (sharing the same exact birth date as former major leaguer David Cone).

I certainly hope that Martinez is given serious consideration this year for the Hall of Fame. Look at his incredible numbers and years of clutch play. He played all 18 years with the Mariners. He compiled 2247 hits, 307 Home Runs and a career batting average of .312. He was a 7 X All Star, 5 X Silver Slugger, 2 X Batting Champion. He is the only Designated Hitter in history to lead the league in batting average.

On top of all his accomplishments, he is recognized throughout baseball as one of the real good people in the game. He was selected for the Mariners Hall of Fame in 2007.

I hate the Designated Hitter rule---always have, always will, but it has been around for over forty years. When you have a player who has so excelled as a DH, it is about time he is recognized for his accomplishments as a hitter.

In honor of hopefully future Hall of Famer, Edgar Martinez, here is the Baseball Birthday Quote of the Day.

"I've never talked to him much about hitting. What I do is employ him to share his knowledge with other guys."
--Lou Piniella, talking about Edgar Martinez

HANK GREENBERG; BIRTHDAY QUOTE OF THE DAY FOR JANUARY 1

 For the last few week I have posted the baseball birthday quote of the day on another site, but now this will be the permanent home in 2017 so come visit every day for the baseball birthday quote of the day.

Today's Birthday Quote is about Hank Greenberg. Hankus Pankus was born on January 1, 1911. He spent every year of his career with the Tigers outside of his final season with the Pirates.

The great Hall of Fame power hitter was the American League MVP in both 1935 and 1940. In '37, he had 184 RBIs (still an American League record) and in 1938, he hit 58 home runs.

He was a hero of my childhood as there were not a lot of great Jewish ballplayers and my dad would frequently talk about him. He famously didn't play on Yom Kippur during the World Series. He was also the first Jewish player elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame.

He was also a hero because of his military service. He missed three full seasons and parts of two seasons because of World War II. He would have easily hit over five hundred home runs if he did not serve on World War II. Like my dad, another American hero, he spent a lot of the war in India, China and Burma.

Call him the Hebrew Hammer, Hammerin' Hank or Hankus Pankus, but he is an all-time great player and person. Happy Birthday to Hank Greenberg.

 

"Hank Greenberg has class. It stands out all over him."--Jackie Robinson