Cooperstown reflection

Back home from Cooperstown and insomnia has set in.  I read through the HOF open thread and since there were so many comments I wanted to reply to, I figured writing a diary would be better to address all these thoughts from the weekend.

First and foremost, what a thrill it was to see Tony Gwynn finally take his rightful place among the game's greats.  We were far outnumbered by the O's fans, but I think we made our presence known, despite what ESPN showed on its telecast.  My friend and I sat in the 5.5 hole and cheered like crazy for our Padre throughout the ceremony.  I was awed by the moment, realizing what a significant event this was for Tony and the team.  To see so many Hall of Famers on that stage and have Tony be among them was almost surreal to me.    I know the word is overused, but "amazing" really sums it up.

True to his word from Tribute Weekend at Petco, he brought the fans of San Diego with him.  Tony thanked the fans as he did his family, making sure we knew he appreciated us, whether we were there in Cooperstown or watching him back home in San Diego.

 I had never been more proud to be a fan of the San Diego Padres than this past weekend, watching a man who represents the city so well.    Tony Gwynn's plaque is now in the Hall of Fame gallery, with all the other legends of the game. Well done, Tony!  Well done.

P.S. Ok I just have to mention this: When the Os fans screamed "OH!" during the anthem, I too, thought, "What the hell?!"  If you thought that was weird hearing it on TV, it was even weirder hearing it in person.  I'm just surprised it didn't throw off Anisha Gwynn while she was singing.  Maybe they warned her.  I wish they had warned the rest of us. :)