The Chicago White Sox Finally Get It Right
“Insane. Unbelievable. Kind of a loss for words. They retired my number it’s an incredible honor. To put a statue up, of me, out there, forever …” ~ Mark Buehrle, on getting a statue dedicated to him.
It was announced yesterday by the Chicago White Sox Organization that they were going to dedicate a statue to their retired pitcher, Mark Buehrle. I saw the news via a meme on Facebook and immediately texted the meme to several baseball / White Sox fans that are loyal readers of this blog. I received positive responses with some funny comments as well.
From my son Mike, “Would be hilarious if it was him throwing the ball between his legs. But they figured out a way to get more butts in the seats.”
(CLICK HERE to view the video of this play. It occurred at the Home Opener on April 5, 2010. Even if you’ve seen it before, it is worth the time.)
From Joe Scherer, “Or him tarp sliding haha. If it’s not one of those I’m gonna be a little pissed.”
(I couldn’t find a video of this, sorry.)
From Karen Woolet, “About time!”
(She’s NOT wrong.)
Mark Buehrle is a class act. Always was, and I assume he always will be. His number 56 is retired, and the statue is another fitting tribute. Buehrle was a great teammate and played the game the right way. Just one of those decent guys that you always wished well. I’m surprised it took the Sox this long to commission a statue, but as I indicated in the title, they finally got it right. Honour one of your best. They still need to address the on-field roster and put wanting a new field on the backburner. That television debacle (along with the Bulls and Blackhawks) needs to be addressed too. But for now, let’s celebrate Mark.
(Mark Buehrle. Found on the internet. Assuming Public Domain.)
Buehrle had a great career considering he was drafted in the 38th round. He pitched 16 seasons (15 full seasons) in the “bigs” with the White Sox (2000-2011), The Miami Marlins (2012) and the Toronto Blue Jays (2013-2015). His career record was 214-160, ERA 3.81, and struck out 1,870 batters. He was a 5-time all-star, a World Series Champion (2005), won four Gold Gloves (2009-2012), pitched a no-hitter (April 18, 2007) and a perfect game (July 23, 2009). He threw a fastball, curveball, an outstanding changeup, slider and cut fastball. He didn’t throw overpowering stuff but was a control pitcher. He worked fast averaging 15.8 seconds between pitches (prior to that damn pitch-clock) and could field his position. He threw over 200 innings 14 of his 15 complete years in the majors, missing one year by 4 outs. He never had less than 10 victories in any of his seasons. He is second all-time in picking off baserunners with an even 100. He was not known for his prowess with the bat but did hit a home run up in Milwaukee during interleague play (happened to be in attendance for that one).
While texting with my son, Mike mentioned that he had read a story stating that Mark didn’t have a suit for his first day in the majors, didn’t even know he needed one, so he had to scramble to buy one. After that, every player that came up to the majors, he would buy a suit for them. That’s an outstanding teammate, taking care of the rookies.
Last night at SoxFest there was a “Beer on Buehrle” promotion where he bought each fan in attendance (over 21) a beer. Nice promo, I wonder who came up with it. Hopefully it will increase goodwill.
Per the press release the statute will be unveiled on Friday, July 11th at Rate Field (pronounced Comiskey Park). The next day, Saturday the 12th, a replica bobblehead will be given out. I think I’d like to be in attendance for both of those games. Anyone want to go with me?
I have picked Mark for someone I’d like to see elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame; I am still of that mindset. The writers aren’t giving him much support, but he’s still on the ballot. If you’d like to read a “Guest Post” on “Comments” that my son Mike wrote, CLICK HERE. (It also has a link to the Blog he writes on Mountain West Conference of college sports). It’s an interesting read, a great take on his career, and his Hall quest.
Thanks for reading.
~ Coach Mike
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Buerle is the last player who I believe has not been given the accolades and respect by the sportswriters for his on the field performances. My last favorite White Sox player along with Konerko.
So very true! Mark deserves the statue! He has always been a decent, kind and humble person! It would be wonderful if you could be in attendance both of the days, since you are one of the biggest and longest Sox Fans and you appreciate their treatment of Mark!
I hope you can find someone to attend the games with you!
Hurray for Mark and for the Sox Finally Getting It Right!