Jeff Bagwell is a name that resonates with the Houston Astros franchise.
Growing up in Houston and being branded a die-hard Astros fan since birth, I remember watching in awe as Bagwell smoked balls out of the ballpark.
I really think people tend to forget how good Bagwell really was.
Actually, Bagwell was the very first professional athlete I ever interviewed way back in the mid-90’s (I want to say it was 1994).
The hit song at the time was Sister Hazel’s “All For You” and Drayton McLane (at least to the best of my knowledge) already had gray hair.
Then again, I doubt it takes long to lose one’s hair after taking over as an MLB owner; however, I digress, back to Bagwell.
Unfortunately, Bagwell’s phenomenal Astros career (as both a hot hitter and a fantastic first baseman), was cut short due to injury.
Unlike his ball player buddy Craig Biggio (who was able to complete his Houston career with happy tears in the spotlight), Bagwell’s name and career just seemed to fade away in the haze.
Boy do I miss the days of the Killer B’s and the buzz that surrounded those teams.
Granted, the Astros didn’t make a true World Series run until 2005, but the Bagwell-Biggio tandem led teams of the past were things of beauty.
I’m not going to delve into Bagwell’s statistical career numbers (actually, if you want a good break down of that, check out Ash Marshall’s latest piece ), but I will say this: the guy was an awesome Astros athlete and is even a more remarkable person.
From first shaking Bagwell’s hand in ‘94 to the current date in 2009, I still love the guy.
And Bags will always share a special place in the hearts and souls of any forever Houston Astros fan.
Denton Ramsey may be reached via email at denton.ramsey@gmail.com
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