R.I.P. Kirby Puckett. 1960-2006

Casey just sent me a message saying that Kirby Puckett was dead. I remember the whole family watching as he announced his retirement . That was the day I lost what little interest I had in Baseball. I was never a huge fan of baseball, but I was a fan of Kirby, and therefore the Twins.

Kirby was a class act. I am listening to Kfan and a caller summed up why Kirby was loved by so many. He wasn't a great player in high school, but he kept playing and eventualy begame one of the all time greats.

Then, just like it is now, there weren't many celebrities that you could look up to, but Kirby was one of a kind. Someone who loved the fans and the fans loved him.

"I was told I would never make it because I'm too short. Well, I'm still too short, but I've got 10 All-Star games, two World Series championships, and I'm a very happy and contented guy. It doesn't matter what your height is, it's what's in your heart." -- at his 1996 retirement press conference.

"Don't take anything for guaranteed, because tomorrow is not promised to any of us."

Kirby will be missed.

For a bio of Kirby, here is a Wikipedia article about him.