June 14, 1981

40 years ago today I went to my first professional baseball game, seeing the Richmond Braves at Parker Field. I *think* they played Syracuse...? And I can remember, clear as day, standing by the fence along the first base line after the game and getting my first autograph, pitcher Jose Alvarez.  Even more clearly, I can remember exactly what he said as he signed his picture from the media guide: "You gonna put this on the fridge to scare away the flies?" 🤣

I also got Brett Butler's autograph. He'd go on to bat an incredible 2,375 base hits in the major leagues, but Jose will always be my first. And funniest!