Remembering Monte Irvin

What an extraordinary life Monte Irvin, who died this week at age 96, lived!

I did not see him play but remember him from Mets’ Old Timer’s Day introductions and my love of baseball history.

The biggest and best recollections came from those who saw him play and the great appreciation even love they had for his play.

Then in 2001 at an event marking the 50th anniversary of Monte and the New York Giants winning an incredible National League pennant, I met and interviewed the classy Mr. Irvin.

He is in the Baseball Hall of Fame and helped the New York Giants win their last World Series in 1954, among other feats delivering a big 2 run single vs the great pitcher, Hal Newhouser.

As great as his achievements were on the field and even the fact he transcended sports as he was just the fourth black player in the major leagues after the ban of such players which was a shameful act that sadly, will always resonate, it is the gracious class and courtesy Monte always showed that I will remember most.

1954 World Series Game 4: Giants vs Indians

Click above to view an account of the New York Giants’ last World Series clinching game. Monte Irvin was a big part of the game and as the play that championship season.