Even though I grew up right outside of New York, I have been an avid Oriole fan through thick and thin since 1969. Because of his contributions to the Os over 37 years, Elrod deserves to have his number retired just as much as Brooks, Frank, Eddie, and Cal.
Elrod Hendricks was the only Oriole that I ever had a full-blown conversation with. When I was a kid, and just trying to get autographs, he would actually talk to me, ask me what position I played, and give me a few tips. The man should be forever commemorated by retiring his jersey.
I not only support this petition, but am horrified that fans had to resort to this! Ellie personified the "Oriole Way" and it is disgraceful that he is not being honored properly.
Ellie was a fixture in the Orioles organization for years, and it is only fitting that a man who bled as much as he did for our boys in Orange and Black be remembered in this fashion.
'Twas a good man for Baltimore who had his heart broken by what baseball (not just the Orioles) has become. Let's congratulate and honor a fine human being who gave a lifetime of work to one organization.
EVERYONE in Baltimore knew him, probably even met him, and definitely felt the magic and warmth that Elrod Hendricks brought in what must have been every single day of his life. To many, he was the face of the Orioles organization in the Baltimore community. He will be missed. I support this petition.
