John Wagner wasn’t a very talented ballplayer, but he tried hard all the time, didn’t complain, and always showed up. He was the kind of kid that you wanted to succeed.  The first year he played for me he didn’t get a hit.  Going into the last game of his second—and last—year on the team he was still without a hit.  I was aware of it, most of the players were aware of it, and certainly John was aware of it.  Each at-bat we were saying a little prayer for John.  “Please, just one hit.”

Late in the game, John came to bat for what would probably be the last time. Everyone was pulling for him.  John fouled off a pitch, which was a good sign.  He often would strikeout without ever making contact. But on the next pitch, John made solid contact and sent a line drive into right field for single.  A huge cheer went up.  As John stood on first base, you’ve never seen a kid with a bigger smile.  And you’ve never seen a coach with a bigger smile.