This is a day that will live in infamy for Baltimore Orioles fans of a certain generation. It was on August 24, 2011 that we found out of the untimely death of former pitcher Mike Flanagan. At the time I said I’d never let today pass as long as I penned this column without commemorating it.
We all know Mike Flanagan’s story. He was an Oriole through and through. I would submit that was never more on display than when he famously was the last Oriole to pitch at Memorial Stadium. Flanagan retired the side, and the Orioles moved to Oriole Park at Camden Yards the next season. When later asked about his slow walk in from the bullpen that day, Flanagan said had he gone any faster he would have fallen over.
Flanagan pitched for the Orioles (with a short stint in Toronto after a trade), he served as a pitching coach, broadcaster, and executive. This franchise was his life’s work. However on this day, we should also think of his family. They’re the ones who suffered when his journey ended. It’s my hope that Birdland keeps them in their thoughts and prayers today and always.
Birdland Crush 