Thome an all-time favorite

 

Two more home runs, and Jim Thome of the Chicago White Sox will tie Mickey Mantle’s total of 536.

 

That’s something. Mickey Mantle was one of great stars of all-time, and a particular hero when I was growing up. No star in any sport today was any bigger than Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays were in the 1950s and 1960s.

 

You’d think I’d root against Thome equaling and then surpassing Mantle, the most significant athlete of my youth, beloved by every kid in my old Niagara Falls neighborhood, but I don’t. Thome long as been one of my favorite players. In fact, I’d say he and Jason Varitek of the Red Sox are indeed my absolute favorites.

 

I’ve always loved Thome’s power.  And it is power that no one ever has suggested was boosted by steroids or human growth hormones. Thome is just a big, strong man with a great swing who drives in runs and smacks home runs in bunches.

 

Beyond that, Thome always has projected dignity and class. He does his job, keeps his mouth shut and seems to treat everyone with respect. He’s regarded as one of the friendliest players in the big leagues.

 

I don’t’ mind Thome passing Mickey. He just turned 38, so who knows how many at bats he has left, but I hope he hits 600