Who Was Derryl Cousins?
Derryl Cousins, a name that echoes through the annals of Major League Baseball (MLB), was more than just an umpire; he was a guardian of the game’s integrity. Born on August 18, 1946, and passing away on October 19, 2020, Cousins left behind a legacy that spans nearly two decades in the American League from 1979 to 1999, and both leagues until his retirement following the 2012 season.
Imagine a game of baseball where every play is scrutinized, every call debated. Derryl Cousins was at the heart of it all, wearing uniform number 13 as he officiated in some of the most significant games in MLB history. He wore the badge of an umpire with pride and dedication, ensuring that each pitch, swing, and catch was judged fairly.
His Notable Moments
Was there ever a moment more historic than when Barry Bonds tied Hank Aaron’s all-time home run record? On the top of the second inning at San Diego, Derryl Cousins stood firm as Bonds hit his 755th career home run off Clay Hensley. This was not just any game; it was a milestone that resonated through baseball history.
As the final game at Yankee Stadium approached on September 21, 2008, Cousins was there as the second base umpire. This game marked a bittersweet end for the iconic stadium, and his presence added a layer of nostalgia to the proceedings.
The Perfect Game
On May 9, 2010, Dallas Braden of the Oakland Athletics threw the 19th perfect game in MLB history. Cousins was on first base that day, standing as a silent witness to this rare and beautiful moment in baseball. The perfect game is like a symphony played flawlessly; every pitch, every catch, every run scored. And there he stood, ensuring that each note was heard correctly.
The Near-Perfect Game
On June 2, 2010, Armando Galarraga’s near-perfect game came to a close with a single hit by Pedro Feliz. As the third base umpire and crew chief, Cousins played his part in this drama, ensuring that every call was made with precision.
A Career Milestone
On September 21, 2008, Derek Jeter of the New York Yankees achieved his 3,000th career hit against the Tampa Bay Rays. Cousins officiated as the first base umpire for this historic moment, a testament to his long and dedicated career in baseball.
The Final Game
On September 30, 1990, at Chicago’s Comiskey Park, the White Sox defeated the Seattle Mariners 2-1. Cousins was there as the first base umpire for this final game, marking a poignant end to an era.
A Personal Struggle
Despite his illustrious career, Derryl Cousins faced personal challenges. In March 2015, he was arrested for driving under the influence in downtown Scottsdale, Arizona. Released on $2,000 bail and residing in Las Vegas at the time, this incident cast a shadow over his otherwise exemplary career.
A Legacy of Service
On October 19, 2020, Derryl Cousins passed away at his home in Palm Springs, California. He was 74 and had been battling cancer. His life and career serve as a reminder of the dedication required to uphold the integrity of America’s pastime.
Conclusion
Derryl Cousins was more than just an umpire; he was a guardian of the game, ensuring that every play was judged with fairness and precision. From tying Hank Aaron’s record to officiating historic games like perfect games and near-perfect games, his career was a testament to the importance of integrity in baseball. Though his life ended too soon, his legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of umpires and players alike.
You want to know more about Derryl Cousins?
This page is based on the article Derryl Cousins published in Wikipedia (retrieved on December 3, 2024) and was automatically summarized using artificial intelligence.
