Santarone Selected To MLB Groundskeepers HOF
The Baltimore Orioles announced earlier today that late Orioles Head Groundskeeper Pat Santarone was named to the Major League Baseball Groundskeepers Hall of Fame.
Santarone was with the Orioles from 1969 through 1991. In his 22 seasons with the Orioles at Memorial Stadium, the O's won 5 American League pennants and two World Series Titles (70,83). His work tending the grounds also helped individual efforts of the team, as players were recognized with 25 Gold Gloves.
Some will remember Santarone from his annual tomato growing competition with Hall of Fame Orioles Manager Earl Weaver. After retiring in 1992, Santarone spent his retirement in Montana until he passed away in 2008.
Santarone and Pete Flynn of the New York Mets will be inducted to the Groundskeepers Hall of Fame on January 11 at Coors Field in Denver. The two join Emil Bossard (Indians), George Toma (Royals), Joe Mooney (Red Sox), Dick Erickson (Twins), and Harry Gill (Brewers) in the Hall.
The criterion for consideration to the MLB Groundskeepers Hall of Fame are at leave five years in the field as well as contributed significantly to the sports turf industry at the Major League level. An individual's impact on the community is also considered. A nominee must receive at least 75 percent of the vote to be elected.
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