WADE BOGGS – 2000 MWWL HALL OF FAME SPEECH
Mid-West Winter League Commissioner John “Stray” Corrado’s Introduction Speech for Wade Boggs:
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my esteemed honor as the Commissioner of the Mid-West Winter League, Stray Corrado, to welcome you all for a momentous occasion. Today, we gather here to commemorate and celebrate a player whose contributions to our beloved sport very well transcend the realms of athleticism and skill.
Let’s give a big round of applause for the newest inductee into the illustrious MWWL Hall of Fame – Wade Boggs!
Throughout a decorated career that puts him in the pantheon of baseball heroes, Boggs exhibited a knack for raw talent, exemplary discipline, and remarkable consistency. His tenure with us at the Chicago Demolition wasn’t merely a transaction of skills and contract but a journey that we were privileged to share and enjoy.
With an average batting score of .315 and a staggering on-base percentage of .401, he proved himself as a menace for pitchers, time and again. In his prolific career, Boggs knocked 107 home runs and drove in an astonishing 1185 RBIs, etching his name in the annals of our league.
A twelve-time All-Star, three-time Gold Glove Winner, and an MVP award recipient, Wade never let success deter his hunger for excellence. But it’s not just his accolades that define him. It was his spirit, his love for the game, and the electrifying energy he brought into every match. He was, undoubtedly, a cornerstone during the ’86-’88 seasons that everyone appreciated.
Wade Boggs wasn’t just a player; he was an inspiration that made us hold our breath every time he stepped onto that diamond. And it is this dedication and determination that we are honoring today.
As we officially announce his induction into the MWWL Hall of Fame, I believe it’s a well-deserved endowment that reflects our appreciation for everything he has done for our beloved sport, for the Chicago Demolition, and for the MWWL.
So ladies and gentlemen, without further ado, let’s extend our hearty welcome to Wade Boggs into the MWWL Hall of Fame. Welcome home, legend!
Thank you.
Ladies and Gentlemen, distinguished guests, fellow MWWL athletes, and of course, Commissioner Stray Corrado. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for honoring me tonight by inducting me into the prestigious Mid-West Winter League Hall Of Fame.
My journey began with a bat and a ball, and it has brought me here to this incredible honor. It’s been one hell of a ride. Starting from the hustle and bustle of Chicago streets back in 1982, winding my way to the sun-kissed diamond of California in ’94, onto the legendary turf of Long Beach between ’95 and ’98, and finally rounding home at Fort Worth in ’99.
Each stop along the way forged an essence of who I am today. The Chicago stage, where I spent the most time, spanning from 1982 to 1993, was undeniably transformative. California in 1994 offered me twelve unforgettable months of spectacular triumphs and tough beatings. Long Beach from 1995 to 1998 was marked by new beginnings and resilience, and finally, Fort Worth in 1999, where I hung up my cleats after a successful career on the field.
There are so many people to thank, but I must single out one person — the owner of the Demolition and MWWL Commissioner, Stray Corrado. Stray, you’ve trusted me to represent the Demolition for twelve incredible years. You’ve given me countless opportunities and guided me throughout my tenure. Tonight, I stand here because of your trust and belief in me. Thank you, Stray.
As some may know, I had a peculiar tradition, more of a superstition really; I used to eat chicken before every game. Some say it was psychological, and to some extent, they might be right. Yet, I believe that it gave me the energy and stamina I needed for the grueling season and the exhausting number of games of 162.
Today, as I share my journey with you all, my heart overflows with gratitude. Your cheers have been my motivation, your faith my strength. Your enthusiasm for the game has made each hit, each run, and every victory more worthwhile.
Being recognized in this Hall of Fame is an acknowledgment of not just my career but of every person who supported, inspired, and cheered for me. From my family to my teammates, coaches, and fans, this honor belongs to you.
My journey as a player may have ended, but my love for the game remains, as does the chicken tradition! Embrace what makes you unique, for one day it might make you legendary too.
Thank you once again for this incredible honor. Let’s continue to play and support this beautiful game that brings us all together—here’s to the Mid-West Winter League.