Fifty years ago, man first walked on the moon. It was also the only time a local team won the National American Legion World Series.
“It was interesting ? I remember as if it was predestined,” said Raymond Rolak, Edison Baseball Reunion coordinator, who was a boy when the team won the 1959 series.
Tournament officials called a game in their favor against their toughtest opponents because of rain. In another game, the opposing pitcher was injured and could no longer play.
“That was a big break,” he said.
Players of American Legion Edison Post-187 of Detroit team gather once more this summer for reunion and honors, including zone playoffs at Chief Pontiac Field in Independence Township, July 25.
The team was coached by Art Kohn, who was uncle of Billy Pierce, Chicago White Sox pitcher born and raised in Detroit. Pierce will be in attendance during the midday celebration.
Gerry Ratkewicz, who played football for the University of Buffalo from 1960-63, was a pivotal contributor for Detroit Edison Post-187.
‘In looking back, I remember when we played Temple, Bill Cosby was on their team. And I remember how dominant Gerry Philbin was for us,” Ratkewicz said. “He was a monster on defense.?
They will also be guests of honor at the State Championship Banquet in Adrian, Mich., July 29. On Aug. 31, Detroit Tigers honors the team at Comerica Park with a pre-game ceremony.
Outfielder Rich Miller will throw the ceremonial first pitch at the game against Tampa Bay.
The team was 49-10 that season, 50 years ago, winning the Michigan title on Belle Isle in Detroit, Regional in Indiana, and National title in Hastings, Neb. The team was on the road for 23 straight days, Rolak said.
Each received a black Louisville Slugger with his name engraved in gold on it, and Chicago Cubs legend Ernie Banks awarded the Player of the Year trophy to Fred Bowen, who later went on a press tour. Appearing on NBC’s ‘Today? show, he met baseball legend Ty Cobb.
‘At that time, (Cobb) was already in a wheelchair because of his diabetes,? Bowen said. ‘He was having a good day, and I mostly remember him just repeating, ‘Do you want me to sign another ball, kid?? He kept calling me kid.?
Bowen went on to get a baseball scholarship at the University of Detroit. He is recently retired as an educator and builder.
The Edison players will also commemorate their title this summer with a series of speaking presentations for young people, retelling the Edison team’s tale. Additionally, the Plymouth District Library will host a curriculum-approved reading clinic, which will use baseball as the theme.
“Maybe we can plant some seeds, maybe we can grow some new champions,” Bowen said.
For more information visit www.chiefpontiacbaseball.org/
? Phil Custodio