Guest Article - "The Gerbil"

A couple of days ago the "Designated Gerbil," the man who coined the phrase Spaceman Bill Lee, passed away. First Dick Williams & now the Gerbil. As a fan of the Red Sox since Yaz broke into the majors, it is difficult to see the passing of one of the most intense managers I have ever seen. Billy Martin is another one along with Lou Pinella. Here are some of my favorite memories & least favorite of Don Zimmer a/k/a the "Gerbil." Pedro vs. the Gerbil. Don't think the WWF & Vince McMahon did not take notice. I bet Zim got more money than Pedro for his fall. The Order of Buffalo Heads -- Lee, Carbo & Willobhy. Using Bobby Sprowl in a playoff game instead of Bill Lee. Up by 14 games in August, eventually losing the playoff game with the hated Yankees. Winning the NL Central with the Cubs. Winning 4 rings with the Yankees & 2 with the Dodgers. Meeting both Babe Ruth & Jackie Robinson. How cool is that? Having a park named for him in Windham, NH while wearing a Yankees cap. Working 66 years in major league games. Surviving several brain surgeries & living with a plate in his head (tough guy). I am sure that we all agree that Zim was among the most entertaining managers in baseball. My favorite all-time Red Sox managers are: Dick Williams, Don Zimmer & John Farrell. 6, 2 & even. Send 'em! (Author: Coach Gaff)