Quote:
Originally Posted by jupin11
Last week, I went to game 5 of the Lakers v Thunder series with Barry Bonds. He's become friendly with my stepfather over the last year, but this was my first chance to meet him. I had no idea what to expect. I didn't even know if he would be comfortable talking baseball.
He was a very, very nice guy. He took time for everyone who asked for an autograph or picture. I started the night just asking about his interest in basketball and the Lakers. After enough fans and reporters came up to him, I realized that he loved talking about baseball. I asked him about working out with Ryan Howard during the offseason. He said, "I'm 45 years old, but I killed him in the batting cage. KILLED HIM!" It was clear however, that he was more comfortable discussing the early part of his career (when he could run and play the field). Not a lot of talk about post-2000 ball. I finally understood how he could be friendly with my stepfather: they're both regarded as major jerks in their respective industries, but surprisingly friendly outside of work.
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Very cool!
My wife and I recently had dinner with Peyton Manning and his wife. While eating, we learned that Darryl Strawberry was in the house. Peyton's wife, Ashley, went out of her way to grab Darryl and bring him over. What a special moment that was for me! The 1984 Darryl Strawberry RC is the reason I collect cards. I pulled it from a wax pack at the Ellettsville Little League ball diamond. I have never looked back. I must have had (10) Mattinglys at the time...But no Strawberry. I was worried how he would present himself. If anyone has ever read "The Bad Guys Won" about the '86 Mets, Darryl was painted as the one of the most despicable team mates you could think of. That night, He was absolutely cordial. We talked about current baseball and how the game has changed a bit. Heyward was a big topic since he is being compared to Darryl. Over all, I was very impressed.
Also, He was eating dinner with "The Beaver". You know...Jerry Mathers. Talk about an all time odd couple!