STEVE CARLTON – 1990 MWWL HALL OF FAME SPEECH
Mid-West Winter League Commissioner John “Stray” Corrado’s Introduction Speech for Steve Carlton:
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Welcome to a momentous occasion in the history of the Mid-West Winter League (MWWL). Today, we gather to honor an individual whose unparalleled excellence on the mound has etched his name indelibly into the annals of baseball greatness. It is my distinct honor as the MWWL Commissioner to officially induct a titan of the game into our esteemed MWWL Hall of Fame – the legendary Steve Carlton.
Steve Carlton’s journey through baseball was nothing short of extraordinary, characterized by sheer dominance, grit, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His remarkable career is a testament to perseverance, skill, and an insatiable desire to conquer the challenges of the game.
With 261 victories and 3,081 strikeouts, Carlton’s prowess on the pitcher’s mound was awe-inspiring. He wasn’t merely a hurler; he was an artist, skillfully painting the strike zone with his pitches, leaving opposing batters in sheer awe. His career ERA of 3.34 and a WHIP of 1.24 speak volumes about his consistency and ability to stifle even the most formidable lineups.
Not content with merely dominating on the mound, Steve Carlton’s fielding abilities were a marvel to behold. His two Gold Glove Awards stand as a testament to his all-around excellence, demonstrating his complete command of the game.
The accolades bestowed upon Carlton – five All-Star selections and the crowning achievement of the 1980 Cy Young Award – only scratch the surface of his immeasurable impact on the sport. Beyond the statistics and awards lies a legacy defined by resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to the craft of pitching.
Today, we honor not just the numbers, but the spirit of a player who epitomizes the very essence of what it means to be a Hall of Famer in the MWWL. Steve Carlton, your induction into our Hall of Fame is a testament to your enduring legacy, and it is with immense pride that we welcome you into the pantheon of MWWL greatness.
Congratulations, Steve Carlton, for your immeasurable contributions to the sport of baseball and your well-deserved place among the legends in the Mid-West Winter League Hall of Fame. Your legacy will forever inspire future generations of players and fans alike.
Thank you.
Esteemed Guests,
Today marks an extraordinary moment in my life, a pinnacle I never envisioned when I first stepped onto the fields of Old Mill in 1970. I stand before you humbled and honored, as I am inducted into the esteemed Mid-West Winter League (MWWL) Hall of Fame.
My journey through baseball has been an odyssey, one that began in Old Mill (1970-1972) and carried me through Punxsutawney (1973-1974), Kansas City (1975-1976), Quebec City (1977-1982), Missouri (1983), Valdosta (1983), Western Mass (1984), Chicago (1984 & 1985), and concluded in Fort Worth (1986-1987). Each team, each city, each year, has left an indelible mark on my heart, shaping me not just as a player, but as a person.
Reflecting on my career, I’m overwhelmed by the memories of triumphs and challenges, of victories celebrated and lessons learned. The statistics – 3,081 strikeouts, Cy Young Awards, All-Star selections – are more than numbers; they are testaments to the countless hours of dedication and sacrifices made in pursuit of excellence.
But beyond the accolades lies a deeper story – one of perseverance, of resilience in the face of adversity, and the unyielding passion for this beautiful game. It was the camaraderie with teammates, the support of coaches, and the unwavering encouragement of fans that fueled my passion day in and day out.
I’ve been fortunate to witness the evolution of this sport, to stand on the mound and feel the pulse of the game. The highs and lows, the cheers and jeers – they all blend into a symphony that is the essence of baseball, a game that captures the spirit of unity and passion like no other.
Today, as I stand among the distinguished members of the MWWL Hall of Fame, I am filled with gratitude. To the teammates who stood by my side, the coaches who guided me, and the fans who cheered relentlessly, I owe a debt of gratitude that words cannot express.
This honor, bestowed upon me by this esteemed league, is not just mine alone. It belongs to every individual who played a part in shaping my career and to the game itself, which has given me a purpose and a lifelong journey filled with memories I shall forever cherish.
Thank you, MWWL, for this incredible honor. It’s with immense pride that I join the illustrious company of Hall of Famers, carrying the spirit of this league and the love for this game with me always.
Thank you for this great honor.