Two guys have been adrift at sea in a small boat for several days. One looks concerned.
“What’s wrong,” asks the other, “did we spring a leak?”
“No, it’s just that…”
“What? What is it?”
“Well, I thought the ocean would be larger.”
* * *
I couldn’t get to Knoxville in time for the Smokies game. I have only myself to blame, and I’m okay with that.
When it’s Trevor Hoffman‘s turn to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, I’ll spread the trip over more days. Either that, or I’ll pop open a cold beverage, plant my lily white ass on the couch, and watch on television like sane people do.
I’m well beyond exhausted, and food has lost its appeal, but one moment on Wednesday brought a huge smile to my face. I had completely forgotten about a pilgrimage I once vowed to make. Ladies and gentlemen, Bucksnort, Tennessee:
* * *
Next up, Durham. In 1902, the Durham Bulls finished their inaugural campaign in the Class C North Carolina League with a 23-39 record, good for fifth place in a six-team league. Otis Stockdale managed the club, and Charlotte’s Buck Weaver (you may remember him) hit .325 to lead the league before it folded on July 15, 1902. Durham would have to wait 11 more years to field another minor-league baseball team.
[Source: Encyclopedia of Minor League Baseball: The Official Record of Minor League Baseball