Robinson Cano was the target of derision from Royals’ fans during last night’s HR Derby. (Photo: Getty Images).
Some Yankees’ fans have been slow to forgive the rude way in which All Star second baseman Robinson Cano was treated by their Kansas City counterparts, who were unhappy that the Bronx Bombers’ second baseman did not pick hometown favorite Billy Butler to participate in the HR Derby. However, I’d like to extend an olive branch to the long suffering Royals’ rooters who have had to endure 26 straight seasons without a post season appearance. Considering the franchise’s long run of futility, it’s easy to see why fans of the team would have so much pent up energy. The fact that Cano plays for the Yankees, who represent the antithesis of what the Royals have become since the two teams regularly battled for supremacy in the American League, only makes the passionate reaction from the Kauffman Stadium crowd all the more understandable.
In an attempt to help compensate Royals’ fans for the home runs they missed out on last night, provided below are three of the four homeruns (George Brett in 1984, Frank White in 1986, and Bo Jackson in 1989) hit by a Royals’ player in actual All Star Game competition. Hopefully, this gesture will mollify some of the disappointment felt throughout Kansas City, at least among those who aren’t fans of Cookie Rojas, the only other franchise representative to homer in the Midseason Classic (1972).
Undoubtedly, some Yankees’ fans probably will be a little upset that I have taken the time to appease the Royals’ faithful, so, to them, I offer video of every All Star Game plate appearance by Don Mattingly. Unfortunately, Donnie Baseball only had one hit in nine at bats (a double in his late try), so there won’t be much to cheer about. Nonetheless, seeing the former Captain ply his trade against the game’s best is sure to bring a smile to the face of any Yankee fan. Besides, Mattingly has good company among Yankees who have been underwhelming in the All Star Game.
Great clips!! Gracias.
Loved seeing teams wearing own uniforms.
Was C Hough ever young? Nice 2-0 fastball to S Saxe.
They shouldve brought in Don Hasse.
Mattingly’s abnormal physique is always disturbing.
V Scully is always a pleasure.
Incredible! Where do you find this stuff, is it all on some old Betamax tapes on your shelf??
The early-80s stuff forward comes from old VHS recordings I made. The 1970s items I acquired via trades with others. I have all but 4 AGSs since 1968, most with original commercials included, in some form or another. Unfortunately, the conversion process takes so much time. Otherwise, I’d be able to clips more frequently.
Great stuff! Thanks so much for putting together those Mattingly clips. I lived and died for those All-Star at bats, but I never would’ve guessed he went 0 for his first 8. Crazy.