Kenny Hubbs, R.I.P.

by Reverend Jim Ignatowski on Oct 12, 2006 7:42 AM CDT

Yesterday's shocking events in Manhattan took me back to my early days. Specifically, Feb. 13, 1964. On that date my boyhood hero died. Kenny Hubbs. Chicago Cubs second baseman. Age 22. In 1962 he was the NL Rookie of the Year. He was also awarded the Gold Glove edging out Bill Mazeroski. Kenny set major league records for his fielding.

I watched Kenny play many games in Wrigley. I had my picture taken with him. I have his autograph addressed to me personally.

Kenny had many years of baseball ahead of him. I had many years of watching and cheering him ahead of me.

His airplane crash took that away.

I do not know what happened to his family, but I'm sure they are reliving their anguish today. I pray for their comfort.

I cried on February 13, 1964.

This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of SB Nation or Al Yellon, managing editor (unless it's a FanPost posted by Al). FanPost opinions are valued expressions of opinion by passionate and knowledgeable baseball fans.

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Kenny Hubbs

I was just 13 when Kenny died. I went to Ken Hubbs day a few years back when they gave his rookie card away. Some of his family members were there. I also worked with a man who lived near his mom & dad in Colton, Cal. He said what I already expected. Kenny was the pride & joy of the family, and a great example to others. Alas, what might have been.

by KedzieKid on Oct 12, 2006 9:14 AM CDT reply actions

One thing I remember...

... about Hubbs' death was that the Cubs announced at the time, that his uniform number (16) was not going to be reissued to anyone.

They kept this promise until 1970, when it was issued to Roger Metzger, a September callup who played exactly one game in a Cub uniform. Metzger later played SS for the Astros for several years.

Since then #16 has been worn by quite a few players, and now belongs to Aramis Ramirez.

I wish they had kept it retired. At the time I don't think the Cubs believed in retiring numbers -- they had none until Ernie Banks -- but they should have done this for Hubbs.

by Al Yellon on Oct 12, 2006 10:27 AM CDT reply actions

It didn't take me long

to figure out what mane and number to get on the back of my Cubs jersey when I had it customized a few years ago. I'm still proud to wear my #16 Hubbs jersey - and I agree with you Al, I wish they would have retired that #...

Moose

by moose97 on Oct 12, 2006 12:58 PM CDT reply actions