MARK TEIXEIRA SPEECH
Commissioner John “Stray” Corrado’s Introduction Speech for Mark Teixeira:
Born April 11, 1980, in Annapolis, Maryland, United States of America
Played 14 seasons (2004-2017)
2004-2008 Midland Mud Hens, 2009-2010 Brooklyn Ave. Rascals, Jersey Nor’easters 2011-2014, Pittsburgh Lumber Company 2014-2015, Chicago Mobsters 2016-2017.
Career Stats: 1832 Games, 6392 AB, .275 Avg., .367 OBP, .513 SLG, .879 OPS, 1757 Hits, 1080 Runs, 371 HR, 1131 RBI, 356 Doubles, 3278 TB, 859 BB, 1403 K, 19 SB, .996 Fielding %, 1005 Assists, 12,504 PO, 1070 DP
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fellow baseball enthusiasts,
Today, we gather to celebrate a remarkable athlete, a true icon of the game, and a man whose legacy will forever be etched in the annals of baseball history. It is my distinct honor and privilege, as the Commissioner of the Mid-West Baseball League, to induct Mark Teixeira into our Hall of Fame.
Mark Teixeira‘s journey began in Severna Park, Maryland, where he was raised by his loving parents, Margaret “Margy” Canterna and John Teixeira. From an early age, Mark displayed a passion for baseball that would eventually lead him to Mount Saint Joseph High School in Baltimore. There, he honed his skills on the varsity baseball team alongside his teammate, Gavin Floyd.
As a switch-hitting first baseman, Mark Teixeira‘s career was nothing short of extraordinary. With 350+ Home Runs and five Gold Gloves, he set himself apart as a player who combined power and defense in a way that few others have. His career statistics speak volumes: 1832 games, 6392 at-bats, a .275 batting average, a .367 on-base percentage, and a .513 slugging percentage, culminating in an impressive .879 OPS.
Mark’s prowess at the plate was matched only by his exceptional defense. With a .996 fielding percentage, 1005 assists, and 12,504 putouts, he played first base like no other, scooping up anything on the dirt with unmatched skill and grace.
Beyond the numbers, Mark Teixeira‘s impact on the game is immeasurable. He inspired countless young athletes with his dedication, work ethic, and sportsmanship. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of baseball players to strive for excellence both on and off the field.
Today, as we induct Mark Teixeira into the Mid-West Baseball League Hall of Fame, we celebrate not only his remarkable achievements but also the indomitable spirit that he brought to the game. Mark, your contributions to baseball have left an indelible mark on the MWBL, and we are honored to have you as part of our Hall of Fame.
Congratulations, Mark & welcome to the Mid-West Baseball League Hall of Fame. Thank you for the memories, the inspiration, and the legacy you leave behind.
Mark Teixeira Speech:
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, fellow inductees, and baseball fans,
Standing here today, I am filled with immense gratitude and humility as I accept this incredible honor of being inducted into the Mid-West Baseball League Hall of Fame. This moment is a testament to the journey that began many years ago, fueled by dreams, hard work, and the unwavering support of so many wonderful people.
First and foremost, I want to thank God. Without His guidance and blessings, I wouldn’t be standing here today. His presence has been a constant source of strength throughout my life and career.
To my mom and dad, thank you for your endless sacrifices and unwavering belief in my dreams. Dad, your dedication to teaching me to switch hit at such a young age and encouraging me to stick with it has been one of my greatest gifts. Your love and support have been the foundation of my journey, and I am forever grateful.
I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to my wife, Leigh, who has been the glue of our family. Her unwavering support and love have been my anchor through the highs and lows of my career. To our wonderful children, Jack Gordon, William Charles, and Addison Leigh thank you for being my greatest joy and inspiration. Your love and laughter have made every moment worthwhile.
I am also deeply thankful to all my teammates along the way. Baseball is a team sport, and I couldn’t have achieved any of this without your support, camaraderie, and shared passion for the game. Each of you has played a vital role in my career, and I cherish the memories we’ve created together.
To my fellow 2025 MWBL Hall of Fame inductees, Roy Halladay and Casey Hoch, congratulations on this well-deserved honor. Casey, thank you for your dedication and hard work as the Mid-West Baseball League Hall of Fame Committee Chairman. Your commitment to preserving the legacy of this league is truly commendable.
Reflecting on my journey, I must acknowledge the coaches who have shaped me from Little League to high school, and college – your guidance and mentorship have been instrumental in my development as a player and as a person.
A special thank you to the owners of the MWBL Franchises that have been a part of my career. Phil Seaton of the Midland Mud Hens, Tom McDuffie of the Brooklyn Ave. Rascals, Wally Bender of the Jersey Nor’Easters, John Niespodzianski of the Pittsburgh Lumber Company, even our esteemed Commissioner & owner of the Chicago Mobsters, Stray Corrado where I finished out my career. Your leadership and belief in my abilities have been pivotal in my journey, and I am grateful for the opportunities you provided.
Thank you all for being a part of this incredible journey. This honor is as much yours as it is mine. Here’s to the future and continued success of the Mid-West Baseball League, it’s truly been an honor.
Thank you.