NEWSDAY

Mets Oldtimers Take Ducks' Field for Good Cause

By Gregg Sarra
NEWSDAY STAFF WRITER

September 7, 2003

The imposing Lee Smith, a fireballing righthander and the all-time major-
league leader in saves, still had some zip on the fastball last night.
Outfielder
Art Shamsky, a member of the 1969 Miracle Mets, ran down a line drive in
short centerfield and hit shortstop Bud Harrelson with a neat relay throw to
start
a sixth-inning double play. It was something they did back in their heyday.

They played the Legends of Baseball game last night at Citibank Park. It was
a grand time, as the players from yesteryear reveled in spirited play and
sparked so many memories for an enthusiastic crowd of about 1,000.

The Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association, in conjunction with
Quality Services for the Autism Community, raised more than $25,000 in a charity
event that Laurie Ackerman, the director of development for the autism group,
hopes will continue.

"The Ducks were wonderful to us, and I can't say enough about Bud Harrelson
and Art Shamsky," Ackerman said. "We had perfect weather, and the players
really enjoyed themselves."

Former Yankees Joe Pepitone and Frank Tepedino keyed the American League's
8-4 victory over the National League, but the score didn't matter.

"These events help us continue to provide direct services that help children
and adults to reach their full potential and thus lead a more productive,
independent and fullfilling life," Ackerman said.

Fans got to see 16-year veteran catcher Jerry Grote of the Mets, a two-time
all-star, put the gear on again. They also saw Rusty Torres, Ron Swoboda, Fred
Cambria, Rich Thompson, George Alusik, Dave Lemanczyk and Steve Frey take the
field.

Said Ducks general manager Michael Hirsch: "It was great hosting such a nice
event for a worthy cause."

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