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."
Copyright © 2003, Newsday, Inc.
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