Even though I was a Senator fan, even though I knew the Orioles would beat the Senators, it was ok because I'd get to watch as a 14 year old 2nd Baseman Brooks and Frank Robinson play that evening. And, in baseball that was as special as it could get those days.
Now God has the best 3rd baseman to ever played the game he must have been tired of all the miss ground balls so he decided to bring Brooks on home to play the left side of the infield with Belanger, now there will be no more miss balls 5 and 7 are back together again!!!!!
Pretty obvious- it would be the quickest way to get to play in the majors verses signing with an established club with many good players already in the minors ready and waiting to move up. Remember, the St Louis Browns sucked for a long time before moving to Baltimore.
Not only the greatest all around third baseman in the annals of MLB, but the most passionate and generous player perhaps in the history of baseball! Talent was one thing, but Brooks’s personality transcends all of baseball in the most impeccable sense! God bless you Brooks and family! We are forever grateful for allowing you to share your dear Brooks with us!
I grew up in Baltimore watching Brooks in his later years (71-76). My National L:eague team is the Phillies. So many people try to put Mike Schmidt in the category of Greatest Third Basemen. Sure, he hit more home runs and drove in more runs. Sure, he won 10 gold gloves and 3 MVPs. But Brooks played third base like he stepped down from a higher league. If I was going to form a team of legendary players, Brooks would be my Third Baseman. A true gentleman on and off the field. He gave back to the community more than they ever gave to him. Read my previous comment a few minutes ago.
Back when I was in college, Brooks was there watching his son play for the opposing team. I was going to approach him to tell him how much he meant to me. I backed off and let a father watch his son play football. He was like a god to me. Already had his autograph. Those Orioles from the 60’s & 70’s were special. Baltimore was a special place then. Brooks and Unitas were the Lords of Baltimore.
Brooks and Bobby Grich signed a baseball for me in Detroit, in the 1970's . Tiger's Gates Brown also signed it. It was later stolen but very recognizable with those 3 autographs. He Mentions American Legion ball, where I also played 82 games a year. Those inside the Major Leagues know that American Legion ball is where Pro teams draft their players for the Minor Leagues. (Who is the announcer for the interview ? He could pass for Jimmy Kimmel's brother. )
Brooks created a legacy in Baltimore that brought us Cal. Cal grew that O's legacy. I can't wait to see which of these kids is going to carry that torch further!
With all due respect to Robinson, who was indeed a giant, Palmer was the centerpiece of the team's most dominant era (and I wager they say as much when Palmer passes away).
so sorry, but during those years Palmer had three or four gold gloves (depending on the season) backing him. Plus Brooks, Boog and Frank (along with the others) to drive in runs from 66-71 when Frank was traded. Palmer was amazingly awesome and fantastic, but if your defense can't field and your offence can't score,.....
Growing up in Central Illinois in the 60s & 70s, Brooks Robinson was my idol. I finally got to meet him in person in August of 1989. I was practically in tears because I was so excited. He was everything you want your idol to be. I named my son after him, and we kept in touch for over 30 years. His passing hit me hard, but I am happy I got to know him. He was a great player, but he was a better man. Rest In Peace, Brooks. Thank you for everything.