Throwback Spring Training Photo of the Day: Catching some Zzz's
Throwback ST Photo: Beck catches some Zzz's
Spring Training: It's the time for Major Leaguers to show up, put in a solid three hours of work and then soak up the sun during a mid-afternoon nap. Even for a player like Rod Beck.
Known for his long and flowing mullet, the greatest handlebar mustache this side of that biker bar on the outskirts of town and one of baseball's greatest nicknames in "Shooter," Beck was all that and more.
A three-time All-Star who led the league in games finished four times, the right-hander also lived in a trailer parked just beyond the center field-fence while rehabbing with the Iowa Cubs in 2003. While there, he would gladly accept any and all visitors -- whether they were looking for autograph or just wanted to chat.
"A fireman stopped by the other night. A state policeman stopped by. At first I thought I was in trouble. But they would just come by and ask for an autograph and hang out. And I've had some people come by when they weren't on duty and have a beer or whatever. It's been quite the adventure."
Sadly, Beck passed away in 2007 at the age of 38. Though hopefully his warmth, friendliness and devil-may-care attitude still lives on.