I just wanted to thank everyone that I've played with, against and had the pleasure to meet in this league. I took this year off because I've played 35 straight years of baseball and I didn't have the passion this year. I hope that will change, but as of right now it hasn't. I'm not going to make this a Lebron James thing, but I wanted to let the following people know that they are appreciated and are not only highly regarded by me, but are my friends.
The Marlins who gave me the start in this league.
The Nationals who are among my best friends and always will be. I love you guys!
John Reel for running this league perfectly for years & giving me the opportunity to play with such good people and better competitors.
John Kalinski for handing me the reigns of the Marlins and many other things.
Jim McQuade for allowing me to win a Championship with the Cubbies who are a truly amazing team.
The A's and the Westchester team who helped me win 4 Labor Day Championships.
Just a little shout out to the following who I've enjoyed playing with and against
All the Marlins/Nats - too many too mention, but you know who you are
Mike Girard
The Maneys - Cooperstown will never be the same
All the Cubbies who made a true rivalry with us
All the managers that helped me as Commissioner and brought the website as we know it today to become a reality
The umpires who took my crap and who I joined a few years ago
Finally- to all the teams in the 25's and 35's for sharing all the good times, laughs and tough losses.
You all have been a big part and a great part of my life and I thank you all.
Hey Joe 35 straight years of anything loses its appeal, so it's understood. You'll be missed for sure. But whatever lifes brings you, may you be happy and fulfilled.
Thanks Jim- everything is going well. My new passion is golf.
To tell you the truth the MVP, Batting Title and All League Awards meant a lot, but playing with you and everyone else for the past 20+ summers meant a whole lot more.
Miss having you on the field already. If you get the itch and want to return, just call. I am now managing the 45+ Marlins. You could start over at the beginning. :>)
Hey Joe, How are you? We were just talking about you the other day when we played the A's/Nats wondering where you were this year. I hope you are well and can get that crazy golf thing out of your system and get back on the field. Lots of good times with the Cubs-Marlins/Nationals games over the years and then when you joined us for a memorable season...haven't enjoyed a Stewart's parking lot cooler session since! See you soon and hopefully between the white lines.
Jim McQuade
-- Edited by jmcquade on Tuesday 3rd of July 2012 02:35:16 PM
