One of the greatest pure hitters in the game of baseball has passed away. Tony Gwynn died today at age 54, far too soon. The thing that made him so remarkable as a player was the fact that he hit so well in an era dominated by players going for the long ball. Tony won eight batting titles and finished with a career average of .338 with over 3,000 hits (3,141). He played for twenty years and played every one of his games for the San Diego Padres -- a rare feat to stay with one team for your whole career. His .338 career average is 20th all time and the highest of any player in my lifetime, since 1950. (Ted Williams hit .344 but began his career long before I was born). Gwynn's single season high of .394 in 1994 is the closest anyone has come to the magic .400 since Williams hit .406 in 1941. Besides this, my impression of Tony is that he was a true gentleman in the sport. Tony, you leave us far too soon, and we will miss you. Your achievements will live forever. My deepest sympathies to your family and friends, and thank you for everything.
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