Thanks For The Memories

Thanks to my father, the summers of my youth revolved around Reds games on the radio. Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall gave me some of the best memories of my life and I didn't even realize it. Looking back on it Marty and "the old left-hander" made it easy for young boys and old men to continue loving the Reds through the lean years. Hamilton native, Joe Nuxhall died last night at the age of 79 following his bout with cancer. Nationally, Nuxhall was probably best known for being the youngest player in baseball history. The story goes that Reds scouts were sent to check out Nuxhall's father and ended up with Joe. On June 10th, 1944, with the team's roster depleted from WW II, Joe appeared in relief at the age of 15. He retired the first two batters but was rattled when Stan Musial came to the plate, Joe surrendered a line drive single to Musial and was unable to record another out. Nuxhall won 135 games in his 16 year career. In 1967 Joe became the voice of the Reds, and when he teamed up with Brennaman in 1974, the two became heroes in Cincinnati. Nuxhall and Brennaman called three world series titles and five National League pennants. Marty was known for brash, controversial comments while Joe was always pleasant and agreeable. One moment, however, will live in infamy in Cincinnati and the commissioner's office. In 1988 Marty, Joe, and Pete Rose (who was playing) disagreed with a call umpire Dave Pallone undoubtedly blew and while Rose was screaming and chest bumbing Pallone, the announcers encouraged fans to throw trash onto the field. Nuxhall and Brennaman were both suspended by commissioner Bart Giamatti, making them legends in the field. Perhaps the most unfortunate aspect of Nuxhall's passing is that he is again a finalist for the Ford Frick award. The award, which has been bestowed on Brennaman, is an announcer's ticket to the Hall of Fame. So on this day when the baseball news is filled with greedy, attention grabbing children and medically enhanced ogres, let us reflect on a man who's 63 year relationship with one organization should be commended. Joe Nuxhall is finally "rounding third and heading for home".