Sunday was induction day at the Baseball Hall of Fame. As if it weren’t enough of a downer that no current era players were elected, rain delayed the proceedings in Cooperstown.
Next year should be interesting with Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, Frank Thomas and Mike Mussina among the newcomers on the ballot.
Deacon White, umpire Hank O’Day and Ruth-era Yankees owner Jacob Ruppert all got plaques this year, which lent a decidedly antique vibe to the proceedings which, in a way, was kind of refreshing.
By the way, the oldest living Hall of Famer is former Red Sox great Bobby Doerr, who was born during World War I and had his first baseball card in 1937. Doerr is 95 and has always been a willing autograph signer.
Speaking of autographs, there are about 90 past and present athletes set to sign this week at the National Sports Collectors Convention at prices that vary greatly. You can get Cal Ripken for $159 and a free photo to boot.
However, if you were in Cooperstown on Saturday, you could have gotten one for free if you were ready when Cal stopped to sign.
Other Hall of Famers also signed for fans who made the trip to Cooperstown while others opted to save their sigs for those willing to pay outside of local shops. The atmosphere was positive, according to the local paper.
Pete Rose did too and also made a mid-week stop in Albany where he chatted about steroids, the Hall and the hobby.
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