ROD CAREW – 1989 MWWL HALL OF FAME SPEECH
Mid-West Winter League Commissioner John “Stray” Corrado’s Introduction Speech for Rod Carew:
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and avid followers of the Mid-West Winter League, today marks a historic moment as we gather to honor and welcome a true icon of our league into the illustrious ranks of the MWWL Hall of Fame. I am humbled and honored to stand before you to celebrate the incomparable career of Mr. Rod Carew.
Rod Carew’s statistics speak volumes about his unparalleled talent and unwavering commitment to excellence. A batting average of .322, a remarkable .394 on-base percentage, 77 majestic home runs, and a staggering 787 RBIs – these numbers tell the story of a player whose prowess at the plate was nothing short of awe-inspiring.
But let us not be blinded by the sheer magnitude of these statistics. Rod’s impact on the Mid-West Winter League goes far beyond mere numbers. His eleven All-Star appearances, his three Gold Glove awards, and the MVP titles in 1975, 1977, and 1978 are testaments to his sheer dominance and unmatched skill on the field.
Rod Carew was not merely a player; he was a maestro, an artist who painted the diamond with elegance and finesse. His ability to read pitchers, his impeccable defensive skills, and his knack for driving in runs when it mattered most made him a true legend of the game.
But more than his on-field accomplishments, Rod Carew epitomized the values that the Mid-West Winter League holds dear. His sportsmanship, his dedication to the craft, and his devotion to the community stand as shining examples for all who aspire to follow in his footsteps.
It is with immense pride and honor that I, as Commissioner of the Mid-West Winter League, formally welcome Rod Carew into the prestigious MWWL Hall of Fame. Rod, your contributions to our league are immeasurable, and your impact transcends generations.
Your legacy will forever be etched in the annals of our league’s history. On behalf of the MWWL and its passionate fanbase, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude to you, Rod Carew. May your induction into the Hall of Fame stand as a beacon of inspiration for future generations of athletes. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor!
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and passionate followers of the Mid-West Winter League, it is with immense gratitude and humility that I stand before you today. As I reflect on this remarkable moment, I am overwhelmed with emotion at being inducted into the prestigious Mid-West Winter League Hall of Fame.
My journey through the MWWL was a testament to the dedication, perseverance, and unwavering support of incredible teammates, coaches, and fans. It all began in the early ’70s when I stepped onto the fields of Vienna and Chicago. Those formative years were the foundation upon which my career was built, laying the groundwork for the moments that would define my legacy.
Thendera became my home from 1971 to 1977, and it was there that I truly found my rhythm. The camaraderie among teammates, the unyielding support of the fans, and the thrill of competition fueled my passion for the game. Those years were filled with countless memories and victories that I will forever hold dear.
My journey continued with Knox in 1978 and 1979, a period marked by challenges and triumphs alike. The resilience of the team, coupled with the unwavering support of the Knox faithful, pushed us to new heights and reinforced the values of teamwork and dedication that define the essence of this league.
Jacksonville, from 1981 to 1983, holds a special place in my heart. The community, the fervor of the fans, and the undeniable spirit of sportsmanship made those years unforgettable. It was in Jacksonville that I not only honed my skills on the field but also cherished the bonds forged within the team, bonds that transcend the game itself.
My final years in the league were with Clem, from 1984 to 1985. Though the chapter was shorter, it was no less impactful. The support of the Clem faithful and the relentless pursuit of excellence by the team encapsulated the very essence of the Mid-West Winter League.
To be enshrined in the MWWL Hall of Fame is a humbling honor, one that I share with every teammate, coach, fan, and individual who contributed to my journey. It’s a recognition not just of personal achievements but a celebration of the spirit of this league – a league that embodies integrity, passion, and love for the game.
I stand here today not only as an inductee but as a custodian of the values that define the Mid-West Winter League. I am eternally grateful for the opportunities, the memories, and the lessons learned throughout my career in this extraordinary league.
Thank you to the Mid-West Winter League for this incredible honor. I am forever indebted to this league, its teams, and its fans for shaping me into the athlete and person I am today. This induction serves as a reminder of the cherished moments, the hard-fought victories, and the enduring spirit of the game. Thank you all.