Today is one of those wacky days. I woke up a little late today. And my tv is set to the MLB Network when I turn on the cable box. So I turned it on and there were the MLB Network guys talking about Yogi. I didn't have my glasses on and I didn't have my coffee yet, so I didn't immediately process the news of Yogi's death. Then, I finally read the bottom of the screen that said that he passed away at age 90. Then it really started to sink in. Yogi had not been well for a while. Seeing him at Yankee Stadium for Old Timer's Day is usually the highlight of the event. You knew he really wasn't doing well if he wasn't able to make it.
Now, as a lot of you know, baseball is my favorite sport. Has been since I was a little kid. Before I knew anything about baseball, I can remember seeing Yogi featured in the Yoo-Hoo commercials. But, as I grew up, Yogi was definitely one of those personalities who ignited my passion and appreciation for the game. The stories he would tell. I always wished I could go back in a time machine and see him play in person instead of just watching old films of him playing. Yes, there were less teams when he played. And there weren't any playoffs. Just the World Series. But winning 10 World Championships is still an incredible feat. In Yankees lore, there was The Babe, Gehrig, Joltin' Joe and then there was Yogi. Easily up there on the Mount Rushmore of Yankee greats.