MIKE SCHMIDT – 1991 MWWL HALL OF FAME SPEECH
Mid-West Winter League Commissioner John “Stray” Corrado’s Introduction Speech for Mike Schmidt:
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Welcome to the Mid-West Winter League Hall of Fame induction ceremony, where we gather to honor the legends of our beloved sport. Today, we have the distinct pleasure of inducting a true titan of the game, a powerhouse whose name is etched in the annals of baseball history – none other than Mike Schmidt.
As the Commissioner of the MWWL, it’s my honor to stand before you and pay tribute to a player whose impact on the game transcends mere statistics. Mike Schmidt‘s career is a testament to resilience, dedication, and unparalleled skill that has left an indelible mark on the sport we hold dear.
Let’s talk numbers, shall we? A .255 lifetime batting average, but don’t let that figure deceive you. Behind that seemingly modest number lies a force to be reckoned with – 461 home runs and an astonishing 1425 RBIs. Those towering home runs weren’t just hits; they were moments that reverberated through stadiums, echoing his mastery of the long ball.
Twelve All-Star appearances speak volumes about Schmidt’s consistency and dominance in an era teeming with exceptional talent. Not to mention his prowess on the field, where he shone brightly as a three-time Gold Glove recipient, solidifying his reputation as a defensive maestro.
Let’s talk about being the best of the best. Schmidt wasn’t just good; he was MVP-good – not once, but twice. In 1976 and 1981, he claimed the prestigious Most Valuable Player award, showcasing his ability to not only excel individually but elevate his team to glory.
But championships are where legends etch their names in gold. Schmidt didn’t just participate in World Series games; he owned them. In 1981, he etched his name in history as the World Series MVP, capping off a career filled with standout performances when it mattered most.
Mike Schmidt wasn’t just a player; he was a phenomenon, a source of inspiration for generations of ballplayers. His dedication to excellence, his unwavering commitment to the game, and his undeniable talent have earned him a place among the elite in the Mid-West Winter League Hall of Fame.
So, it is with immense pride and profound admiration that I, on behalf of the MWWL, welcome Mike Schmidt to our Hall of Fame. May his legacy continue to inspire and ignite the passion for this beautiful game for years to come. Congratulations, Mike Schmidt, you are a true legend!
Thank you.
Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed guests, fellow players, and baseball enthusiasts,
As I stand before you today, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and honor to be inducted into the prestigious Mid-West Winter League Hall of Fame. To have my name enshrined among the legends of this game is a moment I’ll cherish for eternity.
Reflecting on my journey, it all began in Punxsutawney in ’73, where I took my first steps onto the professional diamond, wide-eyed and eager to make my mark. I owe a debt of gratitude to each team I had the privilege to represent – Kansas City in ’75 and ’76, Valdosta in ’77, Missouri from ’78 to ’85, Steel City from ’85 to ’87, and Michigan in ’88. Each jersey I wore represents not just a team but a chapter in my life, filled with memories, challenges, and triumphs that shaped me as a player and as a person.
It’s humbling to stand here and look back at the milestones – the highs and the lows, the victories and the defeats, the friendships forged and the lessons learned. My batting average, my home runs, my RBIs – they’re not just numbers; they’re a testament to the dedication and passion I poured into this game every single day.
The All-Star appearances, the Gold Glove Awards, the MVP honors – they are symbols not just of personal achievement but also of the incredible support and camaraderie I received from my teammates, coaches, and fans. Without their unwavering belief in me, none of this would have been possible.
I must also acknowledge the mentors and influencers who guided me along this incredible journey. From the coaches who fine-tuned my skills to the fans whose undying support fueled my determination, I owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude to every one of you.
To be inducted into this hallowed Hall alongside the giants of the game is a dream realized. It’s a recognition not just of my accomplishments but of the love and passion I’ve always held for baseball. This game has been my lifeblood, my passion, and my greatest teacher.
As I take my place among the illustrious Hall of Famers of the Mid-West Winter League, I promise to continue cherishing this sport, honoring its legacy, and inspiring future generations to embrace the beauty and grace of baseball.
Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for this incredible honor. It’s a privilege I will forever hold dear.
Play ball!