MIKE PIAZZA SPEECH
Commissioner John “Stray” Corrado’s Introduction Speech for Mike Piazza:
Born September 4th, 1968, in Norristown Pennsylvania, United States of America
Played 12 seasons (1997-2008)
1999-98 & 2005 Tempe Tempers; 1998 Northridge Quakes; 1999 East Erie Lake; 2000-03 Johnstown Johnnies; 2004 Michigan Maulers; 2005-07 Buffalo Braves; 2007 Chicago Mobsters; 2007 Kentucky Headhunters; 2008 Elyria Indians
Career Stats: 5,037 AB, 1445 Games, .293 Avg., .368 OBP, .525 SLG, .893 OPS, 1475 Hits, 773 Runs, 296 HR, 930 RBI, 264 Doubles, 2645 TB, 601 BB, 802 K, 8 SB, .984 Fielding %, 424 Assists, 9057 PO, 94 DP
Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fans of the Mid-West Baseball League,
Today, it is my distinct honor to stand before you as the Commissioner of this great league to welcome a true legend into the hallowed halls of our MWBL Hall of Fame. We are here to celebrate a career that has left an indelible mark on our league, a career that exemplifies excellence, determination, and an unwavering passion for the game of baseball.
Mike Piazza, a name that resonates with greatness, a player whose bat spoke volumes, and a competitor who stood tall behind the plate. With a lifetime batting average of .293, Mike was a force to be reckoned with at the plate. His keen eye and disciplined approach awarded him a remarkable .368 on-base percentage, a testament to his ability to consistently get on base and set the stage for his team’s success.
But Mike’s prowess was not limited to just getting on base. He was a powerhouse, sending 296 balls soaring over the outfield fence, amassing an impressive 930 RBIs throughout his illustrious career. His offensive firepower and defensive acumen earned him the honor of being a 4-time All-Star Starter, a recognition of his elite status among his peers.
Mike, your achievements have not only etched your name in the record books but have also inspired countless young players who dream of one day following in your footsteps. Your dedication to the game, your relentless pursuit of greatness, and your unwavering commitment to your team and fans are what make you truly deserving of this honor.
So, without further ado, it is with great pride that I, Stray Corrado, MWBL Commissioner, hereby induct Mike Piazza into the Mid-West Baseball League Hall of Fame. Mike, welcome to immortality among the legends of our league. Your legacy will forever be a part of the MWBL’s storied history.
Congratulations, and thank you for the memories.
Mike Piazza Speech:
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed members of the Mid-West Baseball League, and fellow inductees, I stand before you today with a heart full of gratitude and a mind swirling with memories. My journey through the MWBL has been nothing short of extraordinary, and it’s an honor to be here as a Hall of Fame inductee.
I remember stepping onto the field with the Tempe Tempers, under the guidance of Chris Douglass, back in ’97. It was the beginning of what would become a defining chapter in my life. Chris was more than a manager; he was a mentor who believed in me during those early years and again when I returned in 2005.
The following year, in ’98, I had the opportunity to play for Northridge, where I learned the importance of adaptability and resilience. And as I moved to East Earlie Lake in ’99, I discovered the power of community and the unwavering support of fans.
The turn of the millennium brought me to the Johnstown Johnnies, where I played under the legendary Johnnie Garza from 2000 to 2003. Johnnie’s leadership on and off the field helped shape not only my approach to the game but also my character.
In 2004, I had a brief stint with Michigan, where I continued to hone my skills and contribute to the team’s legacy. Then came my time with Buffalo, from 2005 to 2007, under the watchful eye of Wally Walczak. Wally’s strategic mindset and passion for the game left an indelible mark on my career.
The year 2007 was a whirlwind, with memorable moments in Buffalo, and then leaving for both Chicago and Kentucky. Each team, each city, added a unique thread to the fabric of my MWBL career.
Finally, in 2008, I wrapped up my playing days in Elyria, a fitting end to a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and the joy of playing the game I love.
To all my teammates, coaches, and the incredible fans across the MWBL, thank you for your support, your cheers, and sometimes even your boos, which pushed me to be better. This honor is as much yours as it is mine.
As I take my place in the MWBL Hall of Fame, I am reminded that baseball is more than just a game. It’s a narrative of life’s ups and downs, a testament to hard work, and a celebration of teamwork. I am humbled to be part of this storied tradition and forever grateful for the memories we’ve created together.
Thank you, and let’s continue to cherish the great game of baseball & the Mid-West Baseball League.