Tommy Boggs- Rangers and Braves

Suzette, Tommy Boggs' wife sent me a note about Tommy's connection to Kentucky!

She tells me that Tom grew up playing Little League at Gardenside Little League in Lexington. He played until he was 11 years old!

After that, his family moved to Texas.

Wild Pitches

I hope you all noticed that several minor league teams had Black Friday deals going on. I know the Florence Freedom had some cool things available to those buying some mini plans. Several other teams across the country had specials too. Don't forget to support your favorite minor league baseball team this year!

There is some controversy in the indy leagues right now. Do some searches on the Lake County Fielders. Man, their season was very strange!

Also, the Frontier League's new London Ontario team, the Rippers, has generated some hype and concern.

I personally get a kick out of the odd and unconventional logos and mascots. I generally take a very neutral stance on anything controversial, but I have to admit, I will likely buy some of their swag.

Wes Chamberlain 1990-1994 Phillies, & 1995 Red Sox

Wes Chamberlain hung around the outfield for the Phillies and Red Sox during his career. He also spent several years in the independent leagues, which I think is great!

I asked him some questions recently, and Wes gave me some great answers!

He says that, at this time he does not have a favorite current team or player. He does admire the Cubs and White Sox teams of the 70s.

He enjoyed playing in Japan, and also in the independent Northern and Atlantic leagues after his major league career ended.

He has not contributed to a book, and when asked about his favorite book, he says the Holy Bible.

Wes also mention his site, theweschamberlain.com

Riverfront Stadium

I found this great postcard, sent through the mail in 1981.

The Reds played here from 1970-2002.

Wild Pitches

What a crazy time in sports right now. A GREAT World Series just ended. I think it is great that the Cardinals BARELY made it there, and they ended up winning it all!

I liked the Rangers too though. I saw David Murphy play for the Sea Dogs several years ago. I hated that he got to be the last out guy. Then again, he can brag about playing in the World Series.

Lots going on in the lower leagues. Anyone keeping up with the drama involving the Lake County Fielders in the North American League? I hope someone writes a book about this team's season. Their broadcaster quit live on air, and there were many financial disputes. I hope things get worked out.

Nationals catcher Wilson Ramos, as you know, has been kidnapped, and our thoughts are with him. What an unbelievable situation.

Tom Grant 1983 Cubs

During a seven year pro career, Tom Grant hung out in the outfield for the Cubs, and briefly for the Indians organizations. He did have his cup of coffee with the Cubs appearing in 16 games in 1983.

He sent a note about his career AND Kentucky!

"When I played in AAA Iowa one of my favorite ballparks was in Louisville." He remembers it being in the fairgrounds area, and he recalls good crowds!

The only problem, he says, is that it was turf.

On a hot summer day he would put his feet in a bucket of ice to cool down his spikes!

Bob Randall 1976-1980 Twins

Bob Randall played for the Twins from 1976-1980. Since then, he has spent time coaching at the college level and in the minor leagues.

Bob sent a note to let me know that his favorite major league teams are his former one, the Twins, along with the Royals.

His favorite minor league team is the Indianapolis Indians. He does mention that he loves the Mud Hens and their park!

His favorite current player is Jeff Francoeur and his favorite former player is Bobby Richardson.

He says his favorite baseball book is Bobby Richardson's.

He is involved with Athletes in Action and sent a brochure! Check out their web site at:

aiabaseball.org!

Fritz Connally- 83 Cubs and 85 Orioles

Fritz sent me a nice note answering some questions.

"I don't keep track of the minor leagues too much," he says.

He does tell me that a friend of his, Steve Buechele manages the AA Rangers team in Frisco.

Mr. Connally is a Rangers fan, saying that Josh Hamilton is a favorite player. He says that Josh's playing looks effortless!

Fritz was excited about attending a playoff game between the Rays and Rangers when I corresponded with him!