Here at Kiner's Korner, we celebrate the legacy of the greatest Mets post-game show ever Kiners Korner. However, we've recently uncovered a gem from the post Kiners Korner Era: a captivating post-game interview on September 9, 1987, hosted by Fran Healy after the Mets' 11-5 victory over the Phillies. The guest? None other than former President Richard Nixon, a renowned baseball fan.
Presidents and Their Love for Baseball
Baseball has long been a favorite pastime for many U.S. Presidents. William Howard Taft began the tradition of the presidential first pitch in 1910, while Franklin D. Roosevelt was known for his enthusiasm for the game despite his polio. Dwight D. Eisenhower played minor league baseball, and George H.W. Bush was the captain of Yale's baseball team. Even John F. Kennedy was known to enjoy the sport. Richard Nixon, however, took his passion for baseball to a new level, even considering a career as Commissioner of Baseball after his presidency.
A Night at Shea Stadium with Richard Nixon
In the interview with Fran Healy, Nixon's deep knowledge and enthusiasm for baseball were evident. Healy kicked off the conversation by asking Nixon about his favorite baseball team. Nixon's diplomatic response highlighted his affection for both New York teams, the Mets and the Yankees, while also mentioning his soft spot for the California Angels due to his connection with Gene Autry.
Nixon on his favorite team:
"My favorite club is always the home team. I'm for the Mets and for the Yankees both, but I have a soft spot in my heart also for the Angels because I was out there, and I want to see Gene Autry win one. He's not going to do it this year. It looks like the Twins in the Western Division, I think."
Nixon's insight into the Mets' standing was impressive, reflecting his active engagement with the sport. He discussed the Mets' position in the standings and their prospects for the remainder of the season, showing a keen understanding of the game and the teams involved.
Nixon on the Mets' prospects:
"Well, the Mets after tonight are one and a half back, and certainly they've got a very good shot, but we've all been watching the Cardinals. You've got to watch Montreal because they're coming right along. It's going to be a great finish."
Praising the Players
The former president's admiration for key players shone through, particularly when he praised Darryl Strawberry's performance and defended Gary Carter. Nixon's comments highlighted his appreciation for the players' efforts and his understanding of the physical demands of the sport.
Nixon on Gary Carter:
"Let's give a little credit to Gary Carter. I thought it was really bad when the fans booed him because this guy's playing hurt. You as a catcher know it's the toughest position to play, and I was so glad to see him come through. Three hits, drove in a run, and so forth because he's a fine catcher, handles those pitchers, so here's one for Carter, too."
Nixon on Darryl Strawberry:
"It's the most exciting thing to watch him. He gets up there. They used to say that it was exciting when Babe Ruth struck out. It was exciting when Reggie Jackson struck out. It isn't quite that way yet with Darryl, but believe me, when he hits one, I notice that when you announce the game, you say, 'it's gone' the minute he hits the ball."
The Best Player Nixon Ever Saw
Nixon didn't shy away from discussing who he thought was the best player he had ever seen. His admiration for Keith Hernandez was clear, emphasizing Hernandez's overall contribution to the game, both offensively and defensively.
Nixon on Keith Hernandez:
"At the present time, looking at the Mets, I would pick Hernandez. He hits well. He doesn't hit that many home runs, but he hits for average, as we know. But we've got to remember that fielding is defense, just like in football. Defense is just as important as offense. And Hernandez saves so many runs. If it's anywhere in the neighborhood, Hernandez gets it. I would say overall, I would pick him as the best player on the Mets team."
Nixon also shared his thoughts on another baseball legend, Reggie Jackson. He highlighted Jackson's ability to excite the fans, whether he was hitting a home run or striking out.
Nixon on Reggie Jackson:
"Looking back over the years, I remember particularly, of course, the great New York teams. I remember, too, the great teams in Philadelphia that Connie Mack had. It's hard to pick out one. I think of the exciting players, I'd have to say Reggie of our time, Reggie Jackson. When he got up there, it was either a home run, a strikeout, or whatever he did, it sent the fans really into ecstasy."
Baseball and Beyond
Nixon's love for the game wasn't just historical or theoretical; he shared personal anecdotes that brought his passion to life. One of the most fascinating moments was when he entertained the idea of a "presidential" baseball team, discussing which past presidents would play which positions.
Nixon's Presidential Baseball Team:
- First Base: Woodrow Wilson – "We always think of Wilson as being the great intellectual, as he was, you know, President of Princeton and the rest. But he knew the game."
- Second Base/Outfield: Dwight Eisenhower – "Eisenhower could have played second, but I think he would be better as an outfielder."
- Pitcher: Theodore Roosevelt – "He would get up there, and he'd stomp around the mound. And particularly, I think he would be the best pitcher as a reliever. He would frighten them to death."
Nixon also discussed his personal experiences with baseball, including throwing out the first pitch and attending games with his family. His anecdotes provided a window into his personal life and his genuine love for the sport.
Nixon on attending games:
"I prefer to sit right out there in the stands where you get the feel of the game. You do not really appreciate a baseball game sitting in a box. You've got to sit in there with the fans."
Conclusion
This rare interview (see below) is a testament to Richard Nixon's genuine love for baseball and provides an insightful look into the intersection of America's pastime with its political history. For more captivating moments from Mets' history and beyond, stay tuned to Kiner's Korner!
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