Mike Piazza Calls it a Day
Mike Piazza Calls it a Day
Word on the street is that the Pizza Man is packing up his catcher's mask, chest protector, and renowned mustache and waving goodbye to the sport of baseball. The world of baseball waves back. Sparing all the scrutiny other articles will likely paint of him, this bit of news legitimately makes me saddened and reminiscant.
Growing up, I was one of a dying breed, and still am. I'm a fan of both the Yankees and the Mets. I have indeed caught flack from my New York area friend. But whatever. Even though I remember the Yankees dominant year and amazing postseason to win another World Series, I actually remember more about the Mets during the 1999 season. But growing up, I remember my two favorite players to watch hit a homerun. One was Bernie Williams. The second was Piazza.
There's going to be an argument about his Hall of Fame candidacy. I say the only argument is if he'll be first ballot or second. The only thing he has working against him is his lack of that certain ring that all men crave, and I don't mean one you get at a wedding. But even putting his amazing numbers beside (.304, 427 homers, 1300+ RBIs, fyi), the guy was an exceptional player and teammate. He carried his business with class and a casual demeanor. Even when his name was brought up in numerous tabloids--the Roger Clemens bat-throwing incident, the rumor he was gay, and bar-none the worst blond dye job ever, just to name a few--he refrained from blowing it into some big thing or throw a tantrum when he wasn't happy.
My lasting image of Piazza will be a summer game in 2000 against the Atlanta Braves. The rivalry was still very hot following years of the Mets chasing the Braves in the standings. The Braves jumped out to a quick 8-1 lead. But suddenly, back stormed the Mets, smashing run after run in against bonafide ace Tom Glavine. After tying the game at 8, Mike stepped in and clocked a slider up and out for a three run job to complete a 10 run inning. I went absolutely ballistic watching it. Joy overwhelmed me so much that as I leapt off the couch it nearly tipped over.
Piazza is still one of my 10 favorite players ever. Maybe he's not #2 anymore, but definitely still on a high spot.
See you in Cooperstown in 5 years, Mike.