It seems that the Fleer photographers have Kitty backed up against a wall. Sadly, this would turn out to be the perfect metaphor for the rest of Kittle's career. Ron was always good for an occasional thrill, but he never really matched his Rookie of the Year output.
He had the fans pulling for him though. There's something about a local blue collar boy making good that makes fans really stand behind someone. The Hoosier native made good. He amazed people with his rooftop home run shots.
Ron was a player that you could get behind. He felt like he could be your neighbor or your college roommate. I even had a similar pair of glasses when I first needed them in my youth.
Those feelings would last, but the talent started to erode somewhat. The skill was there, but it wasn't utilized as much and the league was figuring ways around Kitty. He is still loved in Chicago and still lives in Indiana. The big difference now is that he looks more distinguished with age and ditched the aviator glasses. He's away from the wall and making his own path.
Go Sox! They're rolling. I like it.
ReplyDeleteAh, yes, I have several of his cards from his Triber days... I always thought there should be a "and bits" after his name... :-)
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