Good Bye Little Big Man.

On a regular Monday afternoon, the true "Little Big Man," Kirby Puckett, passed away.

Kirby was 44 years old, he was in critical condition this past weekend after he had surgery from suffering from a stroke.

Puckett became a member of the Hall of Famer in 2001, his greatest accomplishment. He also led the Twins to two World Series in 1988 and 1991. Kirby had 6 outfield gold gloves and a career .318 batting average. He led the A.L. in hits for three seasons ('88,'89, and '92), and was MVP's of the '91 ALCS and the '93 All-star game. Sadly, Puckett's career ended early after he found out he has glaucoma after the 1995 season.

My fondest memory of Puckett was a baseball card I had. It was a picture of him, holding a ten foot bat, with the title "Little Big Man". Puckett was 5'9'' but carried a big bat. He had 207 home runs during his eleven year career, including 31 in 1986. I respected the man very much, because he played his own game. He wasn't the ideal big strong outfielder, but he still played like one.

Though he did some other things in his life that most people look down upon, we will still never forget what he meant to the fans of Minnesota, and the fans of baseball all over. He will be missed.

Bud Selig talked to the Associated Press, and this comment was reported by ESPN.com:
"....He was revered throughout the country and will be remembered wherever the game is played. Kirby was taken from us much too soon -- and too quickly."

Rest in peace Kirby Puckett, you will be missed.

(The image used here is Puckett's plaque from the Baseball Hall of Fame)