Independence Day!

I know that today is July 5th, but I wasn't on my computer yesterday, and nobody else should have been either.

 But anyway, I'd like to let you all know that yesterday was filled with beer, grilled meats, and contained explosives. Moreover, I'd like everyone to watch the video above. Rick Monday had an 18-year career in the majors, garnering two All-Star appearances. In 1976, he batted .272 with 32 home runs. He also received 3 percent of the MVP votes, the only time he ever received a single vote. This play is why. It doesn't show up on any box score, but it'll be the reason we always remember the name.

When Monday got up to bat in the following half-inning, he received a well deserved standing ovation. The scoreboard behind the left-field bleachers flashed, “RICK MONDAY… YOU MADE A GREAT PLAY…” To this day, Rick Monday still has the flag he rescued. When asked about that play (pretty much the only play he's ever asked about), he says, "After the guys left, there was a buzz in the stands, people being aghast with what had taken place. Without being prompted, and I don’t know where it started, but people began to sing ‘God Bless America.’ When I reflect back upon it now, I still get goose bumps.”