To My Childhood Idol and Hero

"But most will remember this sad day as the day the proudest, most noble man they ever knew finally fell. For those who loved him -- one who would call him husband, one who would be his pal, or those who would call him son -- this is the darkest day they could ever imagine. They raised him to be a hero: to know the value of sacrifice, to know the value of life. And for those who served with Superman in the protection of all life comes the shock of a failure: the weight of being too late to help. For a city to live, a man had given his all and more. But it's too late. For this is the day that a Superman died."

My submission to ESPN SportsNation's "Memories of Kirby" tonight:
Quick, name the player that commentarors say "really reminds" them of Kirby Puckett. You can't do it, because there are none. Kirby was one of a kind. Cheered at away games and beloved at home, there will never be another like him. I guess all I can say is: "And we'll see ya...tomorrow night!!!"

My letter to espn.com published here:
Kirby's game-winning, fist-pumping, chubby-hustling home run is the greatest moment ever. The fact the guy actually took the first three pitches was unforgettable. One of the greatest players of all time, has one of the greatest games of all time, in Game 6 to force a Game 7 ... c'mon, no doubt that this would be a top five moment if anyone from New York were involved.
Dan Signorelli
Edina, Min.

www.startribune.com for a good tribute.