Monday, April 28, 2014

#203 Bernard Gilkey

About the Front: Bernard Gilkey has his eyes on the ball. I appreciate it when the photo shows that sort of detail.

About the Back: Topps needs to check their facts. The game they describe actually took place on August 25, 1992. If you're curious, Craig Biggio and Andujar Cedeno were Gilkey's victims.

Triple Play:

1. Bernard's best asset as an outfielder was his throwing arm. He was credited with 102 assists in his career, and led the National League in baserunner kills in 1993 (19), 1996 (18), and 1997 (16).

2. Had a career year with the Mets in 1996, batting .317/.393/.562 (155 OPS+) with a team-record 44 doubles, as well as 30 homers and 117 RBI.

3. Gilkey played himself in a brief cameo in the 1997 film Men in Black. He was hit in the head with a fly ball after being distracted by a spaceship flying over Shea Stadium.

11-Year-Old Kevin Says: I remember Chris Berman calling him Bernard "Innocent Until Proven" Gilkey. It's hard to believe that I ever enjoyed his tired schtick.

Bill James Said: "Gilkey has made two giant steps in the last two years, and is about a half-step away from emerging as a star."

On This Date in 1993: April 28. An executive order requires the United States Air Force to allow female pilots to fly war planes.

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