Father’s Day and Baseball
By Jason Burke
Jun 15, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; First base with special name plate in honor of Father’s Day
Happy Father’s Day baseball fans! For me, my Dad has been a part of many of my best baseball experiences. From the earliest one that I can remember, to this past March when we attended our first Spring Training, he has always been there for me, and baseball has been a uniting force for us.
In first grade, my parents took me out of school early for my birthday so that I could go to an A’s game and watch Cal Ripken Jr. play with my family. I don’t remember much of the game itself, but I do remember being taken out of school, and being able to bask in the sun in the cheap seats.
We were in attendance in 2001 when Derek Jeter made the infamous ‘flip play’. We were in attendance for Ramon Hernandez‘s walk-off bunt, and quite possibly the most tense baseball game I’ve ever been to with Tim Hudson facing Pedro Martinez in Game 1 of the 2003 ALDS.
More from Oakland A's News
- Zach Logue yet another disappointing Oakland A’s trade return
- Luis Barrera heading to familiar foe in Los Angeles Angels
- San Francisco Giants showing Oakland A’s offseason could be worse
- Lucas Luetge what Oakland A’s need in bullpen
- Oakland A’s bring Deolis Guerra back on minor league deal
During the 20-game win streak, we were camping with some family friends and I remember listening to games 18 and 19 on the radio, and the pure elation that filled the campsite when the A’s pulled off late-inning victories both times.
We have had many baseball memories together over the years. More recently, we were in attendance for game 162 and all of its glory. Even my little sister has become interested in baseball (mostly because of my Dad and I, but partially because of boyfriends as well).
My Father has brought the family together with his love of baseball, which was given to him by my Grandfather. Baseball has that power. With all of its stats, ballpark food and sunshine (sorry, Tampa) it’s the perfect way to enjoy a day with the family.
On this Father’s Day, we want to wish all of the Fathers the best, and say “Thank You” for all of the fantastic memories we have had, and for all of the memories that have yet to come.