Herm Reich played first base and right field for the Chicago Cubs in 1949. (photo courtesy of John Denton)

Sorry I missed you yesterday, but I was waiting for the World Series to end. I got nervous last night thinking the Cubs were going to blow a lead. I’ve been conditioned to expect that after what happened to the Rangers in Game Six of the 2011 Series. Glad the Cubs got it done. Feel for the Indians — they are a class act.

And somewhere Herm is enjoying it.

Herm Reich, that is (pronounced “Rich”). Herm was the big brother my dad never had. They met in the Army Air Corps in 1942, became lifelong friends and were closer than close until Herm died in 2009.

Herm spent his best baseball years serving his country during World War II. After the Axis Powers had been sent to the showers, he returned to pro baseball as a star in the Pacific Coast League.

Amazingly, he made the Cubs as a 31-year-old “rookie” in 1949, when he hit .280 with three home runs and 34 RBIs, appearing in 108 games. He wore #22.

He loved the Cubs and playing in Chicago. I’m sure he’s celebrating in Heaven today, telling everyone how great it is in his loud voice that began every excitable sentence with, “Ah, Hell…..!” He was a gregarious guy and had a great spirit that typifies “The Greatest Generation” and the game of baseball. He never quit. He signed all of his autographs, “Give It a Ride! … Best Wishes, Herm Reich.”

Why the focus on this obscure ball player from years gone by?? Well, I’m his namesake. My dad thought so much of Herm that Herman is my middle name. And I’m proud of that today and every day. I still think about him a lot, and I have one of his Louisville Slugger bats from his playing days.

Today, Herm and all of Chicago are partying like it’s 1908!

Speaking of Cubs and the bear family, the Frogs have some business with the Bears who roam the Brazos River Valley this weekend. More on them tomorrow.

Kick ‘Em High!

Herm Reich’s custom Louisville Slugger bat. (photo courtesy of John Denton)