Post by The Vermont Bombers on Apr 14, 2017 9:28:51 GMT -5
"Human Vacuum" Cleans up Number 2,000
Robinson Knocks in Milestone Hit in Loss to A's
Oakland, California
June 1, 1975
For a man who's known for his glove, Minnesota Third Baseman Brooks Robinson is no slouch with the stick. Robinson achieved the milestone hit with a "bang" by taking Oakland Starter Fritz Peterson deep in a 2 for 4 effort. Minnesota eventually lost the game 6-4, but that didn't take away from the importance of the moment. During what is definitely a bridge season for the rebuilding Twins, Robinson has done a more than adequate job replacing Twins legend Harmon Killebrew, who retired after the end of last season. So far this season Robinson has provided solid defense at Third while posting strong offensive numbers with a .281 batting average, 4 home runs and 20 RBI. Much like the now retired Killebrew, Robinson also strikes out gets one base a lot by drawing walks (15) and not striking out (14). When asked about the important moment after the game, the four- time Gold Glove winner and three-time All Star was appreciative of what it took to get him to this point.
"I didn't do this alone." He replied with a smile. "I have to give credit to my teammates, whether from Baltimore or here in Minnesota. Without them, I wouldn't have had the career that I've had. It's truly humbling."
As soon as Robinson made contact with the ball it was obvious that it wasn't coming back. His teammates reacted accordingly by leaping over the dugout railing and crowding the plate. The moment was greeted with such enthusiasm by his teammates that it looked like they might literally head and back pat him onto the disabled list. In spite of the fact that the moment had been achieved at their expense, the Athletics lined their dugout railing and applauded him, as did Peterson, who had surrendered the home run. In a true show of organizational class, Oakland celebrated the moment by putting it up on the scoreboard and retrieving the ball for him. Robinson was appreciative of the gesture afterward.
"That was a fantastic moment." He said. "That the Athletics did all of that for someone on the opposition was a terrific and classy gesture and I sincerely thank them for it."
Whether Robinson plays out the end of his contract next season or retires after this one (he just turned 38) is anyone's guess. Either way, he's had a career that he can be proud of and can enjoy this moment forever. Congratulations, Brooks. You deserve it.
