Last Saturday night (September 1st) I had the opportunity to meet a true cultural icon – Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger. As the inspiration for the 1993 film Rudy, Mr. Ruettiger is someone who transcends the world of sports and entertainment. Mr. Ruettiger was at the Frederick Keys game signing autographs on the concourse. Turns out his nephew, John Ruettiger, plays outfield for the Frederick Keys, a minor league affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles.
I was there, too, selling and signing copies of my book Deadball. It was pleasure talking with Rudy. I hope he enjoys the story of Byron Bennett. I can hear the chants now “Byron, Byron, Byron.”
And now for a word about great places to work. The Frederick Keys were kind enough to put me on the concourse along the first base side of the stadium, giving me a “Grade A” view of the field (that’s a pun, but I’ll spare you the explanation).
Unfortunately, once the game was over I had to leave. If only I could have that view from my desk every day!