GOOSE Is Golden, Rice Is Cooked, Again!

The intimidating flamethrower Goose Gossage roared into the Hall of Fame, named on 86% of the ballots, and deservedly so. The story was a different one for Red Sox slugger Jim Ed Rice. He was named on only 72% of the ballots, 16 votes shy of the number needed for election to the hallowed shrine in Cooperstown. It took Goose nine years to get in. He had this to say...

"It's just off the charts," Gossage said Tuesday from his home in Colorado, where he was informed he was at last elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. "Having to wait so long, if anything, made it sweeter than if I was elected on the first ballot."

Peter here. I wish Jim Rice had something to be elated about, and he is running out of years of eligibility. Next year will be his last shot. He was magnanimous in defeat, however, and had this to say after learning the sad news...

"Today's results are obviously a disappointment," Rice said in a statement distributed by the Red Sox. "I believe my accomplishments speak for themselves, and a majority of the voters seem to agree. It is tough to come this close, but I remain hopeful for the 2009 results.
"I appreciate all the kind words from so many players, including Rich Gossage, and I congratulate Goose on his well-deserved election today."

Peter here, and as always, Jim Ed is a good man, honest and able to congratulate a fellow baseball colleague even while burning with sadness. Deep down, where it counts, in his heart. I know he had his very soul set on a possible Hall election. The conditions were right, but the votes weren't there. Hey Jimmy, we all feel for you. We're with you. We love you! Never forget that.

I linked a Boston Globe article-just click on the title of this post. It goes into the Hall of Fame voting results completely. Hey, have a great Hump Day, as again we slowly slide towards the weekend. And, as always, be safe. Be well. Be happy. Those are the most important things in life. Thanks for being here.