We'll miss you

This is coming extremely late, and for that I apologize. I wasn't sure what I wanted or needed to say and even now I hope I don't screw this up, but I have to say something. This world is a darker place without Buck O'Neil. The fact that O'Neil wasn't inducted into the Hall of Fame during his life will always mar the Hall and baseball in general. It is a disgrace to everyone involved with baseball at any level. The man has done more for the sport than every player in the Hall combined, without question. I have to say that I agree with Posnanski's article in the Star today, with regards to how O'Neil should be honored by the Hall. If they induct him now then it will be an even bigger slap in the face to O'Neil and his legacy. They need to name an award after him and help support the Negro Leagues Museum. That would be the one way that the Hall could make up for a blunder as massive as this one. I also hope that the Royals will place O'Neil in the Royals' Hall of Fame. Again, this man has done too much for baseball to not be recognized. Maybe his contribution to the Royals was not the same as those that are in the Hall... but indirectly, he has done as much for the Royals as anyone. As for the rest of us... we need to do our part too. The best way for us to repay O'Neil is to continue to support the Negro League Museum and to continue providing baseball to kids everywhere. And not the kind of baseball that's being peddled by parents and leagues today. Not this 'winning is everything' that has created a hostile, steroid using environment. We need to promote a game that is based on fun. Play baseball because you lave to play baseball, and always work to get better. Sure winning is more fun than losing, but there is more to life than winning a game. So, goodbye Buck O'Neil. Although I never got a chance to meet you I have respected you more than just about anyone. I hope that we can make you proud, and continue to fight for the things you believed in... the things we should all believe in. Thank you for everything, we'll miss you.

brandx