The Bird
When celebrities die, we’re sad, but not in a truly, truly sad way. It’s not like losing a relative. Sometimes, in fact, it’s more about gossip than remorse. A celeb dies, it’s something to talk about—his/her life, career, impact, triumphs, blunders.
Tonight, however, I’m truly sad. I loved Mark (The Bird) Fidrych. Really loved him. Never met the man, but I’m a fan of all athletes who refuse to take themselves overly seriously. This guy clearly had no ego; loved pitching and getting people excited. A true original.
About, oh, 20 years ago I bought the below poster at the Stormville Flea Market outside of Carmel, N.Y. I think it was 50 cents, and it’s followed me everywhere since. Because the frame broke, I had it tucked behind a couch in the office. When I learned Fidrych had passed, I pulled it out, and the wife and I looked him over. Such a goofy, lovable character. A real shame …
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April 14th, 2009 at 8:24 am
I second the motion. Every guy or gal who was ten-years old in 1976, as I was, has to be bummed out about this one.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:25 am
And for the record, I am also saddened by the passing of Marilyn Chambers, but for entirely different sentimental reasons from a time when I was eighteen, not ten.