A Diamond Legacy: Exploring the History of University of Delaware Baseball
The University of Delaware's baseball program boasts a rich history, dating back to its inception in 1882. Except for a brief hiatus in 1945, the Blue Hens have consistently fielded a team, contributing significantly to the collegiate baseball landscape and even producing talents that have graced the Major League Baseball (MLB) stage. This article delves into the program's evolution, highlighting key figures, achievements, and the enduring legacy of University of Delaware baseball.
Early Years and a Star Emerges
The University of Delaware baseball program started in 1882, marking the beginning of a long and storied tradition. In the early years, one name stands out: Vic Willis. He was the first Blue Hen to make it to the Major League level. Prior to 1950, Willis was the only major leaguer to have come from the University of Delaware. A testament to his impact, Willis also served as the coach for the Blue Hens in 1907, further cementing his connection to the university's baseball program.
Blue Hens in the Major Leagues
While Willis paved the way, several other Blue Hens have followed in his footsteps, reaching the pinnacle of professional baseball. There are an additional four Major League ballplayers who attended the University of Delaware, but did not play for the Blue Hens while attending classes. In total, fourteen former University of Delaware ballplayers have made it to the majors.
Among the notable names are Kevin Mench, who leads all former Blue Hens in MLB at-bats, and Tommy Herr, the leader in games played. Dallas Green and Lee Elia, though perhaps better known as the general manager and manager for the Chicago Cubs in the 1980s, also represent the University of Delaware's contribution to MLB. Green's fiery persona, exemplified by his quote, "I express my thoughts. I'm a screamer, a yeller and a cusser. I never hold back. I'm no Messiah, but I'll guarantee no one will ever outwork us. When I hire someone, he better work at it or hear from me," reflects the passion and dedication instilled in Blue Hens who have reached the highest level of the sport.
David W. Smith and the Preservation of Baseball History
Beyond the players who have donned the Blue Hens uniform, the University of Delaware has also played a role in preserving the broader history of baseball. David W. Smith, a UD affiliated individual, is a true devotee of America's national pastime. He is known for tracking the play-by-play history of the game. In recognition of his exemplary devotion to the preservation of baseball history, Smith received the Tony Salin Award at the 10th annual Baseball Reliquary ceremony held in Pasadena, Calif.
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Cannon said, “He attended Dodger games (the first one being in the Coliseum in 1958) and many games of the Pacific Coast League San Diego Padres.” With more than 107,000 game accounts available free of charge at Retrosheet.org, this information and its public accessibility has been of extraordinary value to fans and researchers alike, Cannon said. Smith said, “When I began the organization, the most frequent comment I received was, 'Doesn't the Hall of Fame have all that already?' Alas, this is not the case, and, in fact, there is no such thing as an official play by play account and there never has been."
Smith's work through Retrosheet.org provides invaluable resources for fans, researchers, and even filmmakers. The organization's commitment to providing free access to detailed game accounts underscores the importance of preserving baseball's rich heritage. Smith said, “Along the way I have had the benefit of hundreds of selfless volunteers who handle the large bulk of our very detailed work. We have never sold information, and we give away what we have to anyone, no matter what the purpose or intended use. Our data has been used by game companies and commercial Web sites, and I am delighted by that. In addition, we have consulted with film projects by Billy Crystal and Spike Lee."
One particularly touching anecdote highlights the personal impact of Smith's work: “About five years ago, I received one request in particular that I will never forget. It was from a man in his forties who wanted the play-by-play details from his first game so that he could reconstruct a scorecard for the upcoming Father's Day for his seriously ill father who had taken him to that game. I got him the details and he later told me that he had prepared the scorecard, framed it, and given it to his father. The report is that it was joyfully received and led to warm family reminiscences.”
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