Monday, October 11, 2004
Astros: Sad Day For the Astros Family
Win or lose tonight, heartbreak marks the Astros organization today. Ken Caminiti, who was as much a part of the Stros' heart and soul in the early 90's as Craig Biggio and Jeff Bagwell, died yesterday at the age of 41.
I fondly remember watching Cammy man the hot corner in the Dome on those overachieving Houston teams of the pre-Drayton McLane regime. Man, he could play defense. Cammy made the spectacular look routine. His glove was the place where doubles went to die, and now, sadly, he's the one who is gone.
Steroids no doubt played a part in the offensive numbers that led to his 1996 NL MVP award. They played an even bigger role in the off-the-field problems that marred the end of his career. Despite his flaws, however, Cammy will always be one of my favorite Astros.
For whatever reason I'm also reminded of Darryl Kile's untimely death, just two years ago. DK also came up as an Astro and spent his early years helping to mold the club that now sits on the brink of doing what they've never done before. I know that DK's death weighed heavily on Bags and Bidge, just as Cammy's no doubt does today.
As I sit here now, staring at my computer screen, I don't even know what else to say. Cammy was a great Astro and a great ballplayer, and I only hope that the thoughts and prayers of Astros fans everywhere can help his family get through this ordeal. Win or lose, it's going to be an emotional night for the Astros faithful.
Rest in Peace, Cammy. We're going to miss you.
ADDED: Jason at Home Plate in Space has a moving tribute to Caminiti.
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I fondly remember watching Cammy man the hot corner in the Dome on those overachieving Houston teams of the pre-Drayton McLane regime. Man, he could play defense. Cammy made the spectacular look routine. His glove was the place where doubles went to die, and now, sadly, he's the one who is gone.
Steroids no doubt played a part in the offensive numbers that led to his 1996 NL MVP award. They played an even bigger role in the off-the-field problems that marred the end of his career. Despite his flaws, however, Cammy will always be one of my favorite Astros.
For whatever reason I'm also reminded of Darryl Kile's untimely death, just two years ago. DK also came up as an Astro and spent his early years helping to mold the club that now sits on the brink of doing what they've never done before. I know that DK's death weighed heavily on Bags and Bidge, just as Cammy's no doubt does today.
As I sit here now, staring at my computer screen, I don't even know what else to say. Cammy was a great Astro and a great ballplayer, and I only hope that the thoughts and prayers of Astros fans everywhere can help his family get through this ordeal. Win or lose, it's going to be an emotional night for the Astros faithful.
Rest in Peace, Cammy. We're going to miss you.
ADDED: Jason at Home Plate in Space has a moving tribute to Caminiti.
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