He’s genius…clever, compassionate, a walking baseball/sport encyclopedia and an absolute pleasure to watch and admire.  I have been a fan for years, but probably really took note in 1994, when he interviewed Mickey Mantle after his time in the Betty Ford Clinic and then again in 1995 when be gave the eulogy at his funeral.

At the time, I was captivated by his sincerity and questions, honesty and integrity.  I think, more than anything, it made me want to go back and learn more about Mantle’s legendary career (and Bob’s).  And, then, a year later, when he spoke at Mickey’s funeral, I became a fan for life.

I recently went back to see both pieces of footage, and, as I had suspected, they are timeless.

The 1994 Interview (

) and the Eulogy (

).

In both cases, especially the latter – it’s evident what an absolute fan he was – so much so that he carried Mantle’s card in his wallet for decades.  I love that fun fact…I love that it’s fact!

He is the pre-eminent sports broadcaster, the visual version of Vin Scully’s radio magic, who only seems to get better with each event, interview, reflection, and commentary…and that is why, I love Bob Costas!