Rumor has it that Grasshopper No.1 and favorite Son-in-Law Tom invited Grandson Tommy to Wednesday’s Milwaukee Brewer game in Milwaukee. I can only imagine the young baseball fan’s exhuberance. It could actually result in “wetting one’s knickers”.
It takes me back because the Milwaukee Braves moved to Milwaukee in the early 1950’s (I believe it was 1953). There were several National League teams that were family favorites. The Brooklyn Dodgers had the league’s best catcher in Roy Campanella and my brother Jack aspired to be a catcher some day. When the Brooklyn Dodgers came to town, my Dad would take Jack and I down to Milwaukee County stadium. I do remember one game sitting in the top row of the stadium behind home plate (they were the only tickets available). We didn’t care about the poor seats. We were there.
I know that Tommy was going to get a brand new baseball and the plan was to get to the game early. He could take the ball down to the railing near the batting cage and maybe get the signatures of some Milwaukee Brewer hitters. I don’t know how he made out, but even if he got no signatures, anticipation is 90% of the experience.
Next is waiting for your favorite hitter to come to the plate. I’m sure in Tommy’s case, he knows Hart, Braun and Prince Fielder. He may even have an obscure “unknown” that he favors. It really gets special if one of your hero’s hits “one out” (homerun). Years ago, brother Jack and I cheered for Henry Aaron, Eddie Mathews and Andy Pafko.
Of course there are hot dogs, nachos and cheese, popcorn and soda.
Maybe a piece of memorabilia gets purchased such as hats, T-shirts, and sweatshirts with Milwaukee Brewer inscriptions.
Then it is off to the parking lot at 5:00 PM to fight the 38,000 other fans. Did I mention that 5:00 PM is the height of commuter traffic going home from work. Moving a few miles can take hours.
Who cares if the Brewers got creamed 10-2. The whole experience plays to a little boy’s fantasy. Hell, it plays to a grown man’s fantasy. That begs the question, “why didn’t I get an invitation”?
Dreams are important. A day at Miller Park surely fullfilled the dream.
Love,
Dad