Cincinnati Reds legend, Joe Nuxhall, passed away today at the age of 79. Joe spent 63 of those years affiliated with the Reds. His major league career began at the age of 15 and was the youngest professional player in history. Joe spent 31 years with Marty Brennamen on the air giving the play-by-play on the radio.
I grew up listening to Joe on the radio. The easy delivery of his commentary was as artful as any of his pitches as a player. He was one of, if not the best in the business of calling ball games. His humble style and fun banter with Marty could help you imagine you were there watching the game and made you want to tune in the next day - even if the Reds were having a "wait until next year" season.
But what most might not know about Joe was his generosity. Only those from the Queen City know that Joe gave generously of himself, whether to charity or to fans. Jean and I had the pleasure of meeting him at the Reds Hall of Fame when Eric Davis and Jose Rio were being honored. Joe always had time for a fan to give an autograph and for a picture. I could tell in the few minutes we talked that he was a kind person that was grateful for being able to enjoy the game of his youth for his entire life.
The game of baseball, the Reds and the city of Cincinnati are all better because Joe was a part of them. I'm praying for the Nuxhall family that they know in spite of their loss they can be comforted that while Joe was playing and calling games, he helped many thousands of people forget about life for a bit and enjoy America's pastime.
Joe now belongs to eternity as the Ol' Lefthander rounded third and headed for home. God bless and rest in peace.
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