There was a Major League Baseball game played at historic Rickwood Field last evening, and its significance will last a lifetime. The game was a thrilling 6-5 victory for the Cardinals over the Giants, but that’s not the true importance here for me. I witnessed all the game action right behind home plate, as a seat usher in Section BB. Could not have been closer the action. I am so appreciative for the opportunity and experience.
It's not often I am moved to tears at a baseball game. Last evening there must have been a lot of dust in the air because on three separate occasions my cheeks got really damp. The first time was during the pregame recognition honoring the life of Willie Mays. His son, Michael Mays, along with Ken Griffey, Jr. and Barry Bonds, took center stage when Mays asked the crowd to let his dad hear everyone from Rickwood Field. The crowd showed out and let Willie feel the love. So great a moment.
As if this was not enough, just before this took place, 60 former players from the Negro Leagues were honored on the field. The ultimate moment in night of indelible moments. Current members of the Cardinals and Giants accompanied each former player to their places on the field. This is likely the largest gathering of former Negro League players, certainly in the past 50 years. Just being in the moment - on the grandest of stages - at the most historically significant ballfield in the country - this just captured what this evening (and week) was all about.
Whew. I thought I was good but then the 5th inning occurred. That’s when Grammy award-winning Andrea Day sang her song “Rise Up” to honor those who have been impacted by cancer. The entire crowd was on their feet as they sang background for this most impactful song. Not sure if Fox Sports showed me on screen, but that moment got me good.
The time, effort, and energy during the past few years of putting into motion for this week was incredible. A tip of the cap to Gerald Watkins, Mayor Randall Woodfin, Don Lupo, and the countless others who made this happen. Birmingham did it right. Southern hospitality to the max. I had a front row seat for all three games. I met so many visitors who just wanted to be part of this unique experience. Many of whom had never been to Bama. Tons of people from Northern California, St. Louis, and parts all over. They wanted to learn and experience about life in the South - including the food! One couple had never tried fried chicken. (“Amazing!”) Believe it or not, one guy from Minnesota had never tried grits. (Wasn't impressed.) I could go on and on about these interactions, but will savior it for now.
Birmingham was issued a challenge a few years ago by MLB and they certainly exceeded those expectations. I hope this proves to MLB (and the world) that a permanent annual game should be played at Rickwood Field. I'm so pleased and honored that I could play a very small part in this truly unique experience. This is yet another reason why I'm so very proud to live in the Magic City.
