Remembering Bobby
Ten years ago today, my younger brother Bobby passed away after a valiant battle with cancer. As the summer approaches, I find myself reflecting on his life and the lessons I learned from him about living with passion, courage, and love. Bobby was a lifelong baseball player and fan, dedicating 15 years of his career to working in the front offices of minor … [Read more...]
Masterpiece Theater
Passing of Ray Liotta (updated)
(Updated 5/29/22) Editor's Note: We've updated this post to add Kevin Costner's comments, memories of Ray Liotta from the filming of Field of Dreams. (Scroll to bottom) Sad news today, with the passing of Ray Liotta, at the age of 67. For many, his role as Henry Hill in the movie "Good Fellas" was his most memorable. To me, Liotta will always be Shoeless Joe, in Field … [Read more...]
Juan Gonzalez to manage Puerto Rican WBSC U-23 National Baseball Team
From the WBSC: The former MLB All-Star managed Puerto Rico in the WBSC Premier12 2019 and the Olympic qualifiers in 2021. The Puerto Rican Baseball Federation has named former Major League Baseball (MLB) All-Star Juan 'Igor' Gonzalez as the manager of the island's U-23 National Team. The 52-year old Gonzalez had a 16-year MLB career, highlighted by 434 home runs, two … [Read more...]
Let There Be Light(s)
Long Beach State University to Add Lights to Softball Field Editor's Note: Ok, men's fastpitch fans. You should recognize a member of the Long Beach State coaching staff in that photo above. Who? Comment below, or on Facebook. Who'll be the first to ID him? Give up? Click here to see.I am looking forward to seeing Long Beach's women's softball team "under the … [Read more...]
James “Steamer” Flanagan
" James Paul “Steamer” Flanagan is about as obscure as a major leaguer can get. " Editor's Note: Readers of FastpitchWest.com have read the Editor's somewhat annual posts on his namesake in Major League Baseball, James "Steamer" Flanagan, whose birthdate is today, April 20th. Yes, I know the date is known for something else as well, but for me it's a good excuse to … [Read more...]