It’s always a rare and special moment to meet living legends and discover they are who you hoped they would be. I first met and interviewed Yogi Berra in 2001 in Cooperstown, N.Y., when I was there to cover Dave Winfield’s induction into the Hall of Fame for One on One and Channel 4 San Diego. The 18-time All-Star with the Yankees was in the hotel lobby and greeted Dave. Microphone in hand, I asked about advice for the new inductee. The veteran Hall of Famer said: “Keep it short,” referencing the speech. Later at the golf course, when I reminded Mr. Berra I was from San Diego, he said another Hall of Famer would be coming soon from America’s Finest City. “Tony Gwynn, he’ll be here,” he said. Mr. Berra was unique in his quiet yet thoughtful delivery. He was humble and gracious in talking about others.
In 2005, it was exciting to see Mr. Berra in the lobby again, this time greeting his former Yankees teammate Jerry Coleman, who was being honored for his broadcasting career. When I asked how Mr. Coleman was as a player, Mr. Berra said: “Fine. Saved me from a lot of errors.” No Yogi-isms. No pretense. No arrogance. Just a nice, cordial man who respected my role and lauded his most deserving friend. Often the smallest moments can leave a big impression. And isn’t it nice when it’s a good one?
I feel privileged to have been in Cooperstown for three Induction Weekends with access both as a member of the media and a guest of the Padres. Seeing people including Yogi Berra was as if I opened a book or old film archives and took a walk through time — then to now.
RIP Mr. Berra and thank you for the remarkable mark you’ve made.