At a recent Chicago Bandits softball game, Tony and I were hanging out on the concourse prior to the game, when I saw a familiar face. I don't usually recognize celebrities, but I was pretty sure I saw former Chicago White Sox Rookie of the Year Ron Kittle. Tony looked over and confirmed my belief.
We went over to him and asked for a picture. He could not have been nicer. We ended up talking to him for several minutes. Kittle asked us a few questions about this incarnation of the Bandits, after telling us he was involved in the beginning stages of the original Bandits.
It turns out it was White Sox Day at the ballpark, although it wasn't really promoted well. Kittle was there to toss a first pitch. He was accompanied by White Sox mascot Southpaw (and you know I got a picture with him, too). The team gave Kittle a jersey. Although it was a legit jersey, much like the ones they sell in the merch shop, the letters and number on the back are funky. I don't know why those aren;t the same as actual player jerseys. I might even buy one if they backs weren't so funny.
Anyway, Kittle threw overhand, but he landed a perfect strike. He also was interviewed between innings.
Meeting Kittle was a pleasant surprise. I actually met him about 30 years ago. In the era before selfies and digital cameras, the guy taking my picture had his thumb blocking most of the image. At least now, I have a great picture with Kittle.
Tony, Ron Kittle and me in Rosemont, IL-July 2026.
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