MARK KNUDSON

Mark Knudson parlayed his guest appearances on Artificial Turf into a guest co-host role. Despite having much success against the Yankees during his big league career and being a rabid Nebraska football fan, he still gets the Turf Hall nod. (Inducted April 2005) "Some people are born to greatness, others have a microphone thrust upon them. Repeatedly. In that case, you're bound to eventually get it right. This is the best explanation I can think of as to why I find myself, suddenly -without warning- as a new member of the Artificial Turf Hall of Fame. This is my first such honor, and it comes with a touch of irony. For I, having played professional baseball at its highest honor, yet never getting a sniff of such an honor for what I did on the field of play, am ultimately receiving this honor for my ability to talk and write about those who have done it so much better than I did. But then again, isn't that the whole point of Artificial Turf? Isn't it all about the fact that Rogan grew up seeing himself spring down field under the shadow of the Golden Dome, before trading in his shoulder pads for pinstripes and a fat paycheck? Isn't it because Andrews can still close his eyes and see himself on the hill at Fenway, peering in for the sign while trying to ignore the blood coagulating on his sock...or is that sox? Isn't Artificial Turf all about what we wanted to be, rather than what we are? Someone once said, "I coulda been a contender." A contender, Yes. A Cy Young winner, No. Reality is what it is. So be it. Here we are now, in our happy place, watching those who can, and reflecting on what they should be. From our cozy studios and in front of our high tech keyboards, we can explain why our local nine's 'youth movement' is a good thing, and how the lack of expectations removes all the pressure. We can do a reverse, and lay a load of expectations on our local gridiron stars and rip them for falling short -even before the first snap. We can boast about our local hoopster's great second half, then fuss about their failed playoff run...still making bold predictions about their future, while handing them a few duffle bags full of expectations that they'll have to carry onto the court next season. We can moan and groan about millionaire skaters and billionaire owners and their ability to find a way to divvy up a gazillion dollars, because we have the right to expect they would not lose a whole season over such a thing. We can now have and willfully express such opinions and expectations, because we don't have to actually live up to them ourselves. It's truly a happy place. Being able to cast judgement from above -down upon those who do- is a wonderful gift. Being able to do it at such a high level as to be considered, yet alone chosen, for the Artificial Turf Hall of Fame is truly an honor. Please keep listening, we need the work. Thanks again for everyone who voted for me for this prestigious honor." -Mark Knudson And...the Dome is over...GO BIG RED.