Jots from Jeff

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As Major League Baseball eclipses the All-Star break, the symbolic halfway point in its marathon campaign, the Hall of Fame ceremonies on July 27th are not far away. This year the “Cooperstown Invitational” will only induct one player, Rich “Goose” Gossage. Unless you are part of the Gossage family, not much excitement will be stirred up on the shores of Lake Ostego. In his illustrious 22-year major league career Gossage wore nine different uniforms, and he was with one team, the Yankees, twice.

A year ago two superstars – Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken, Jr. – were inducted into the Hall of Fame and baseball immortality. Since 1936, when Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, Christy Mathewson, Babe Ruth, and Honus Wagner were first elected, only 228 players have been enshrined, with Gossage slotting number 229. But let’s face it: The luster of the Hall is tarnished because an all-star cast of characters probably will never have a place and a plaque. We have Messrs. Bonds, Clemens, McGwire, Palmeiro, Sosa, and, of course, the all-time hit leader, Pete Rose.  (more…)