Royals Honor 1985 and 2015 World Series Champions with Weekend Celebrations
Source: MLB.com
Kansas City Royals Celebrate Legendary World Series Teams
Kansas City is buzzing with excitement as the Royals prepare for a magnificent celebration honoring the 40th anniversary of their 1985 World Series championship team and the 10th anniversary of the 2015 champions. This gala will take place at Kauffman Stadium, featuring a weekend filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and the reliving of unforgettable moments in Royals history.
George Brett Reflects on Fond Memories
Royals Hall of Famer George Brett, known for his innate ability and remarkable contributions to the team, had a whimsical memory to share ahead of the rejoicing. He recalled a promise made during a pivotal moment in the 1985 World Series. “Well, I remember in the dugout in the bottom of the eighth [in Game 7 of the World Series], when we were hitting, it was 11-0,” Brett recounted. “We were all saying, ‘Whoever catches the last out gets 100 bucks from everybody on the team.’ Why not?”
Remarkably, this playful wager remained unsettled until Brett had the opportunity to pay his teammate Darryl Motley, who caught the last out of that legendary game, the long-overdue $100 after 14,445 days.
Reunion of Champions
The dual celebration signifies more than just anniversary acknowledgments; it embraces the indelible bond forged on and off the field by players from both teams. With over 20 players attending from each of the championship teams, the weekend promises to be a tribute to not only their triumphs but to the community that has stood by them.
A major highlight will be the pregame ceremonies dedicated to reliving the exhilarating moments that defined both World Series runs. For the iconic 1985 team, Brett’s unforgettable performance in Game 3 of the AL Championship Series against the Blue Jays is a cherished memory. Brett’s 4-for-4 game, featuring two home runs and three RBIs, is described as a pivotal moment that altered the course of the Royals’ season.
Historical Significance of the Celebrations
The bonds of these teams transcend the diamond; they have become integral to the identity of the Kansas City community. Brett articulated this sentiment, stating, “A lot of people talk about the memories they shared with their families during those moments, and we all share that, right? That’s what we love about sports.”
The spirit of the 1985 team is wrapped deeply in their miraculous comeback from a 2-0 deficit against the St. Louis Cardinals, culminating in the infamous Game 6 and an 11-0 victory in Game 7.
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While the 2015 team is remembered for a thrilling postseason run, the influence of the 1985 team’s legacy was palpable. Players from the 2015 squad, including Mike Moustakas, reflected on how the Pulse of the Royals’ culture has persisted through time. Moustakas remarked, “What we accomplished, we did it together,” encapsulating the core of teamwork that defines the franchise.
Looking Ahead to the Celebrations
Fans can look forward to an array of exciting activities planned throughout the weekend, including fan giveaways and a chance to interact with their baseball heroes. The Royals are not just celebrating championships but also expressing gratitude towards the loyal supporters who stood by them through the years.
As the Royals honor the 1985 and 2015 championship teams, they celebrate not only their success on the field but also the incredible stories that continue to bring joy and unity to Kansas City. With the weekend’s events, fans, players, and the community will reconnect, reviving the exhilarating memories that have made the Royals more than just a baseball team.
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Royals, George Brett, World Series, Kansas City, baseball history, baseball celebrations, 1985 World Series, 2015 World Series, MLB, sports community