When I was a young teenager I caught a wicked line drive off the bat of Bobby Murcer. I was beyond thrilled, Now I have the ball packed away somewhere and don't give it a second thought. If I caught a ball now I would just give it to a kid like I have when I catch a tee shirt at a BB game at Walsh.
Imagine adults bully children and senior citizens just to get a ball.
1969.
Caught a foul grounder by Bobby Cox.
Missed my nose by 1/2 " as it bounced up into air.
Using my basketball skills (ha ha) I boxed out the horde behind and snatched the ball in the air. Waved at the TV camera.
Was sooo happy.
Gave the ball to my girlfriend (now wife) uncle's young son who gave us those fantastic seats on the rail third base line.
No tarp in front.
Anyway, many many years later I asked him at a family party what he did with the ball.
Didn't even remember.
Should have kept it. Would be on a shelf by my desk reminding me of a wonderful moment.