Pudge Rodriguez is a Hall of Famer. All Texas Ranger fans knew that from the moment he became a star in the league. He was a special talent behind the plate, and he was a special talent at the plate. Being the age that I am (lets just say not in my thirties), Pudge was in my wheelhouse for becoming a Rangers fan. As far as my favorite Rangers of all time go, Pudge is right there near the top.
Pudge was called up for the first time on June 20, 1991, and never looked back. His career accomplishments are outstanding, and include fourteen All-Star appearances, thirteen gold gloves, seven silver slugger awards, NLCS MVP, AL MVP, World Series Champion and Texas Rangers hall of famer. Pudge was a dynamic player for the Rangers, and he was with the club from the time he was called up until 2002, and he returned for part of another season in 2009.
The fact that Pudge made it on his first ballot is telling. He was one of the greatest catchers of all time, and he played an amazing nineteen season at the position. Although he won the World Series with the then Florida Marlins, he will forever be remembered as a Texas Ranger. I am really looking forward to hearing the speech that Pudge gives at his Hall of Fame induction. The one he gave when he was inducted to the Rangers hall of fame was great.
The number retirement ceremony that will take place in the upcoming 2017 season for the Rangers is a big deal as well. I always thought it should have already been done, and I for one am glad that the Texas Rangers have decided to retire his number. Pudge will always hold a special place in the hearts of Texas Rangers fans that are around my age. He was one of the reasons that I became a huge baseball fan as a youth. Congratulations to a great man and a great baseball player. I am excited to see what the future holds for him!
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