Saved a flag...delivered a pennant.

In researching imagery for a book for which I hope someday to write, I came across a few images of a special moment in Dodger history provided by one of the best in the game.

Rick Monday will always be best remembered for nineteen seasons in the majors highlighted by saving the American flag at Dodger Stadium on April 25, 1976. For me personally, there was another moment, Game 5, Montreal, Canada 1981 that I will never forget. Ninth inning of the deciding game between the Dodgers and Expos, winner to represent the National League in the Fall Classic against the New York Yankees. The weather was brutal, the game the day before cancelled due to cold and snow. As the team photographer my primary focus was on each and every swing at that point of the game. During those days it was film, no digital, so if I found myself running the motor drive on every swing it also meant quickly dropping out and putting in another fresh roll of film so not to get caught short on frames available. With the photo well full of half used film canisters at my feet the routine paid off because Rick delivered with a shot to deep right off the Expos' pitcher, Steve Rodgers. I stayed focused on him through the telephoto lens and only by seeing his reaction through the lens as he rounded first base did I realize we were headed back to the "House That Ruth Built"...this time, to win the 1981 World Series. I take pride in having the only still photo of Rick reacting in mid air between first and second base as he sees the ball go over the wall. The rest of the still photographers in attendance at Olympic Stadium concentrated on right field hoping for a dramatic catch.

I posted earlier this week about my visit with Nobe, Sy and Dave. Clubhouse personnel see the players for who they really are. If you ask Nobe Kawano who his all time favorite player and true friend is...the name Rick Monday is quickly answered. For any of us that have had the pleasure of his company and friendship you would certainly understand our excitement for Rick on that cold Canadian day in October of 81'.