Say It Ain't So, Harmon

I was a kid when the Washington Senators baseball team moved to Minnesota and became the Twins. I fell in love with that team immediately. Bob Allison, Lenny Green, Rich Rollins, Earl Battey and Jim Kaat... they were my idols and I followed them religiously.

But the one player that truly represented everything it was to be a Minnesota Twin was encapsulized in Harmon Killebrew. The "Killer," as he was nicknamed, couldn't hurt a fly.  Harmon was the quiet leader, the tower of strength. When the team was going bad, Harmon was looked upon to bring them back. 

I remember 1967 very well. The Twins and Red Sox were locked in a death struggle for the American League pennant. The Twins faltered in the end and the Red Sox pulled off a miracle and became AL champions. I was devastated, but Harmon was one of the first to congratulate the Boston Red Sox. Even in defeat he was nothing but class.

Harmon is now losing his greatest challenge. He has entered hospice with esophageal cancer.  But his final days are entered with the same grace and dignity that has marked his wonderful life. Harmon, again, is the example that all of us should embrace.

In an age of steroids and multimillion contracts, Harmon embraced today's players and looked for the best in them. When a Twins star slumped, Harmon encouraged them. When the team needed someone to promote them, Harmon obliged. When a kid needed an autograph or a smile, Harmon was there.

Harmon Killebrew will always symbolize the best in us. Whatever time he has left should be cherished and his life of achievement should be praised.

You will probably see the number 3 emblazoned on every Twins jersey for the rest of this season. I know they will wear it proudly. 

I am glad that I got to see Harmon Killebrew play. May his last days be peaceful and full of friends and family. To Harmon, I would say, thank you for a life well lived and for an integrity that most of us can only wish for.

-Dave Mindeman