Tony Gwynn

It was my last year as a journalism student at San Diego State University and I was an intern at a local TV station.  I was fortunate enough to have my own media pass and I went to as many games as I could: heck, I was a college kid and there was a free meal in the media room every night.  I was living large.  I got to spend a little bit of time with the best hitter of my generation.  Tony Gwynn was a young outfielder with the Padres at that time.  And he was one of the most genuine, real, personable athletes I have ever met in all my years in this profession.  He didn't have to take the time to learn my name, ask me how I was doing, how school was and how my family was, but he did.  He did it on numerous occasions.  I remember one afternoon, sitting in the Padre dugout with Tony Gwynn, who one day would be a first ballot hall of famer, and listen to him tell stories for about 20-minutes. I don't think I will ever forget that.  Me and him, with a few other people coming and going.  Yes, the numbers are staggering and tell the story of one of baseball's greatest hitters.  The numbers do not tell the story of one of baseball's best human beings.  Tony Gwynn passed away on Monday at the young age of 54 and the countless tributes are telling the story of a great player who was an even better person.  Maybe the best ambassador for the game baseball has seen in decades.  I will miss you Tony Gwynn, as will anyone else who's life you have touched.  RIP