Two years ago, when the BBWAA elected no one into the Hall of Fame, tumbleweed seemingly outnumbered the estimated 2,500 people that showed up for the annual induction ceremony.
Thankfully, the Class of 2014 was what it was, and nearly 50,000 visitors later…the sleepy village was, again, a flurry of activity. And following Tuesday’s announcement of Randy Johnson, Pedro Martinez, John Smoltz and Craig Biggio being elected into the Hall of Fame, this July looks to be no different.
“The Boston turnout should be huge,” Cooperstown’s Mayor Jeff Katz told The Hall. “Will we get to the 50,000ish of 2014? Quite possibly. The village is already thrilled. A four man class with a Red Sox superstar is great news for the merchants and the village.”
“It’s a boost to the local economy that will impact not only Cooperstown but our entire county,” Otsego Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer Barbara Ann Heegan said.
As I’ve said before. Baseball needs this. The Hall of Fame needs this. And, most importantly…the Village of Cooperstown needs this.
“This is a home run for our region,” Heegan continued. “These inductees will bring fans from around the country and the world to our region.”
“On a personal note, I love this class, particularly Johnson and Martinez,” Katz added. “RJ was the most fearsome and incredible pitcher I’ve ever seen. Watching him slow walk from the D’backs bullpen to come in for relief in Game 7 of the 2001 World Series is an unforgettable sight, even from my seat in the way upper deck.”
Better make your reservations today, because Martinez’s speech promises to be amazing.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
