I’ve always had the same opinion of your past viewpoint on Concepcion and the Hall. But after reading this well thought-out article, along with the recent inductions of guys like Jack Morris, Roy Halladay, and especially Ted Simmons, I’m beginning to change my mind on Davey.
Born in 1978, by the time I started noticing baseball, Larkin was the SS. While he and Eric Davis were my favorite players growing up and rock stars, Davey was just hanging em up. For most of my life my older relatives kept telling me Davey was better than Barry. That Larkin’s defensive game was patterned after Davey’s. If Larkin is a well deserved HOF and also Votto, Davey should be in also. 2300 hits is not small task especially as Chad pointed out, in his era. Can’t wait for the update to the “Big 50”
For me Larkin is still the GOAT of cincy short stops but Davey a clear and solid HOF #2.
Perfect! When it’s a slow sports day or I just want to read about positive Red’s content, I pull out my phone and read the Big 50. I’ve read and re read it countless times. Lots of great Red’s books out there, the Machine being another, but the Big 50 is my fav.
Many years ago, there was speculation that certain New York sportswriters didn't want more Big Red Machine players in the Hall of Fame than the legendary Brooklyn Dodgers Boys of Summer. But now that Gil Hodges has joined Robinson, Campenella, Snider, Reese and Walter Alston, it's time for Concepcion to enter Cooperstown.
We need a Reds book detailing the top 10 at each position and why! Unique stories to go along with it! Maybe the crack team at The Riverfront could crank that one out!
It is a shame he is not.
I agree! So it’s time to start the “Davey for HOF” movement.
I’ve always had the same opinion of your past viewpoint on Concepcion and the Hall. But after reading this well thought-out article, along with the recent inductions of guys like Jack Morris, Roy Halladay, and especially Ted Simmons, I’m beginning to change my mind on Davey.
Born in 1978, by the time I started noticing baseball, Larkin was the SS. While he and Eric Davis were my favorite players growing up and rock stars, Davey was just hanging em up. For most of my life my older relatives kept telling me Davey was better than Barry. That Larkin’s defensive game was patterned after Davey’s. If Larkin is a well deserved HOF and also Votto, Davey should be in also. 2300 hits is not small task especially as Chad pointed out, in his era. Can’t wait for the update to the “Big 50”
For me Larkin is still the GOAT of cincy short stops but Davey a clear and solid HOF #2.
I love this, Ben. I was born a bit before you, but I had a similar experience. Couldn’t agree more.
And the updated edition will be out in March!
Perfect! When it’s a slow sports day or I just want to read about positive Red’s content, I pull out my phone and read the Big 50. I’ve read and re read it countless times. Lots of great Red’s books out there, the Machine being another, but the Big 50 is my fav.
You’ve made my day, Ben. Thanks!
Many years ago, there was speculation that certain New York sportswriters didn't want more Big Red Machine players in the Hall of Fame than the legendary Brooklyn Dodgers Boys of Summer. But now that Gil Hodges has joined Robinson, Campenella, Snider, Reese and Walter Alston, it's time for Concepcion to enter Cooperstown.
Larkin #1
Davey #2
Who is the #3, 4 best SS’s of all time!
We need a Reds book detailing the top 10 at each position and why! Unique stories to go along with it! Maybe the crack team at The Riverfront could crank that one out!
Funny you mention that. I’m working on it!
No freaking way!!! My gosh. That’s awesome!