I was surprised to learn that Al wasn't already in the Cards' HOF. I grew up in Edwardsville and got to attend numerous games at Busch for free, through the straight-A tickets program, when I was in high school. I was lucky enough to see Al pitch, and I'm honored to say a few words on his behalf. For over a decade, I've been a researcher with the Hot Springs, Arkansas, Historic Baseball Trail. For the past several years, Al has been a favorite here, at our Baseball Weekend events. His perspective and comments are much appreciated. For these reasons (and many additional reasons, previously cited by others), I hope he'll receive the Red Jacket soon--he's earned it.

Mark Blaeuer, Long-time St. Louis Cardinals fan