A hard-throwing Baltimore native, he realized his childhood dream of pitching for the Orioles before shoulder injuries shortened his career. But he never wallowed in disappointment.
I have the card autographed by him. I worked in the Fire Department with John for several years in Baltimore County at the Westview Fire Station #13. He taught me how to drive the ladder truck (hook and ladder) I am glad to have been able to call him a friend. It was great to chat with him about his day as an Oriole. Hell, I could've done my own Bird Tape lol.
Funny story, we would get together and play a neighboring fire station in softball. At this point he was probably pushing 50 years old? Naturally, he batted cleanup. He hit a ball a mile and wound up at 2nd base. He said, I can hit, but don't ask me to run. He could hit a golf ball pretty far as well.
I have the card autographed by him. I worked in the Fire Department with John for several years in Baltimore County at the Westview Fire Station #13. He taught me how to drive the ladder truck (hook and ladder) I am glad to have been able to call him a friend. It was great to chat with him about his day as an Oriole. Hell, I could've done my own Bird Tape lol.
Funny story, we would get together and play a neighboring fire station in softball. At this point he was probably pushing 50 years old? Naturally, he batted cleanup. He hit a ball a mile and wound up at 2nd base. He said, I can hit, but don't ask me to run. He could hit a golf ball pretty far as well.
RIP John. We all miss you.
Thank you for this, Allen. Great memories. Appreciate you sharing them.
Happy Birthday, John.
Haha, I didn't notice that! Total serendipity!