I really like this take Roy, as the Orioles have certainly lifted me up as well.
The O’s were gifted to me by my grandfather. He was an umpire on the eastern shore of Maryland 20-years, to all levels of baseball that needed an ump in the area. A massive fan of the game and the team, and Brooks was his favorite player by far and away — he passed that torch and that passion on to me from the time I was born until his last day.
He passed on years ago, but I still hope he can hear me when I complain specifically about the Birds or in those bright spots like last year’s awesome run.
It can be difficult to describe just how grateful I am for this gift, but I think your post covers it rather well.
Godspeed Mac. It’ll be a tough day for Hyder, parting ways with his main squeeze. If only he was left handed….
He’s still young enough to have a nice career.