Two items today. One in the longer past and one more recent. It was on this date back in 1985 that the Yankees brought back Billy Martin for the fourth time as their skipper. Obviously Martin had his issues with the bottle but nobody can deny the passion he brought to the game. And the man knew the game inside and out. He seemed to win and get the best out of his clubs where ever that was. Oakland, Texas, Minnesota, Detroit or of course the Yankees. He was wired pretty tightly and tended to wear out his welcome but his love of the game could never be questioned. He and George Steinbrenner made a odd couple in New York. I think Martin was jealous of George's financial standing and on the flip side George was a jock wannabe and envied Martin. They had a volatile relationship to be kind. I remember the classic Miller lite beer commercials featuring the pair. Actually all those old spots were classic. Miller should do that again. Anyway, Martin's life, not shockingly came to an end one holiday night after a day of drinking at the local watering hole he and his buddy wrecked his truck on the way home and the crash was fatal to Martin. Sadly, the thing happened right in front of his home. Gone too young. I have a book titled Wild, High and Tight. The story of Billy Martin. It's a good read. Highly suggest it.
The other item is from last year. It was on this date last year that the White Sox beat the Orioles 8-2 at Camden yards. What was unique about the game was it was the first game played in front of an empty house. Due to those stupid, ongoing riots the game was played but no fans were there. How weird that had to be for the players. Surreal.
Okay, a free winner. Tonight it is in the NBA playoffs and I suggest playing the Heat and Hornets over the total of 190.5. On the business side I am having a winning NBA post season to date and there is a long, long ways to go. I cashed my NBA playoff game of the month on wednesday with the Warriors blowing the Rockets off the floor. Came back last night with a easy Double Star winner on Atlanta as they went into Boston and polished off the Celtics on their own floor. Tonight I have a playoff Triple loaded and ready to roll.
Hope everyone has a great weekend. I plan on it. Found out I'm having my first granddaughter. Pretty excited. Thanks for stopping by and best of luck. Enjoy the games.