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September 21, 2022
New Blog Topic:
Mickey and Bobby, an Unlikely Pairing
Many thanks to Steve Falco for sending me this historic photo from Mickey Mantle Day. You can read Steve’s description of the photo below:
This incredible photo was taken on September 18, 1965, at Mickey Mantle Day in Yankee Stadium. The Mick is with New York Senator Bobby Kennedy who had come to the Stadium to take part in the event honoring the Yankee legend. The photo was signed by Mantle and given to my friend who worked on the RFK presidential campaign in 1968. My friend had read my book Mickey Mantle’s Last Home Run and understood the metaphoric connection between Mickey and Bobby. Kennedy had won the New York Senate seat the previous November. Eleanor Gehrig, Lou’s widow, is also in the photo.
On that September day Mickey and Bobby were probably the two most popular people in New York and the entire country. Though Mantle was on the downside of his playing days he was at the pinnacle of his fame and New Yorkers were coming to appreciate what he meant to the city and to baseball. And Mickey Mantle Day was a time to show it.
Bobby Kennedy was carrying the torch of optimism once held by his deceased brother and was happy to have the opportunity to bask in Mickey’s glory.
In just a few short years Mickey Mantle’s remarkable career would fade away in retirement and Bobby Kennedy’s valiant life of public service would end tragically.
Though their paths would never again cross Mickey and Bobby would forever be etched on the soul of America.
Steve Falco
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Hi Gary,
Am I optically impaired, or is Bobby seeking to shake the hand of nobody in particular? (A very presidential gesture, particularly in this day and age.)
More seriously though, that is some shot! It sparks fond, long-dormant recollections of a time when our country was blessed with possibility and optimism, even in the face of disastrous strategic setbacks at home and in the Pacific.
To think that in two short seasons Kennedy’s promise and potential, and The Mick’s storied career, would be consigned to history. Intoxicating dreams with very sobering endings.
Thanks for another provocative glimpse in our collective rear-view mirror.
Best wishes,
Michael
Thanks Michael…some really nice observations here!