I just can't wait for Baseball to get started. We are a mere few weeks away from the beginning of spring training, and soon thereafter Opening Day will be here. While we wait join me in taking a look at the above fantastic in-game-action AP Wirephoto, dated July 22, 1954, featuring a sliding Bob Borkowski of the Reds being tagged out by Roy Campanella. (eBay Auction Link)
On the play Reds second baseman Johnny Temple hit a grounder to shortstop Pee wee Reese, who unfortunately booted the ball. Borkowski, standing at second base at the time, tried to take advantage of the miscue and rounded third for home. Jim Gilliam, who was the kind of guy who never missed a play, dutifully picked up the errant ball and threw a strike to home to record the third out of the inning. The Dodgers would maintain a one run lead in the game, and eventually win it, 8-5. BTW, Hall of Fame umpire Jocko Conlon is in the background calling the out. Also, this photograph was originally a part of the George Michael Collection of Baseball sliding press photos.
Below are more links to check out:
- This Day in Dodger History: In 2006 the Dodgers signed free agent starting pitcher Brett Tomko to a two year/$8.7 million contract.
- Happy Birthday, Frenchy Bordagaray & Chris Van Cuyk!