Craig Gabbert Loves Baseball

At the beginning of every season, my friend Craig Gabbert takes a group of family and friends to spring training to catch up with the New York Yankees, his favorite team. Here's a photo of Craig and his sons Joel (left) and Rob (right).

During the season, Craig and the gang sometimes visit the hallowed halls of Yankee Stadium. At the end of the season, he settles down in front of his TV to see whether the Yankees make it to the playoffs or, be still his heart, beyond. 

Craig lives in Nashville. I never did figure out how he became such a Yankee fan. Maybe it’s a little bit like why, miles from LA, I’m a Dodger fan.

I have to admit that for a few years I took a break from the Dodgers. But now I’m back. Why? Because of the three Hall of Fame players who top their lineup: Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman.   

The Dodgers have other fine players, of course—Will Smith, Teoscar Hernandez, Nashville’s own Walker Buehler—but none come close to this trio.   

Yes, those three players were bought, and it bothered me for a while. Now, overwhelmed by the sheer magnificence of what they do, I just admire them.

So tonight, I’ll take my place in front of the TV set and, like my friend Craig Gabbert, watch my favorite team, hoping to see them, and the world of baseball, come out on top.