Everyone, say a prayer for Bobby Murcer

We here at Subway Chatter try to make light of things, even when talking about fairly serious matters. However, every now and then a situation arises that poignantly calls for reflection unadulterated by comedic dalliance. This is one of those times. Yesterday, Bobby Murcer revealed that an MRI discovered a spot on his brain, one doctors fear could be a return of the cancerous tumor that was removed last year . Whether you’re one to pray constantly throughout the day, before you retire at night, or maybe never at all, take some time to send some well-wishes skyward for an all-time great Yankee, and more importantly, an all-time great person.

While Bobby may not have as many hits as Derek Jeter, not nearly as many home runs as Mickey Mantle, nor as many RBIs as Donnie Baseball, he forged his status as a Yankee legend by playing a hard-nosed, gritty, and determined brand of baseball that fans around the country could not help but admire and respect. Then, when Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto retired from the broadcast booth, Murcer took over the role of the aloof yet folksy commentator, the one who, despite being short on analysis, has always been full of lighthearted personal anectdotes that have endeared countless fans to the game of baseball, and to Bobby himself. And while many a broadcaster have come and gone, Murcer has spanned the lean years of ’80s (1983 to be exact) right up through the glory days of the past decade-plus, in the process becoming a fixture in the heart of Yankee fans everywhere. So again, say a prayer or two for Bobby Murcer when you get a chance. It’s the least we can do for a man who has helped kindle and sustain our love for the Bronx Bombers.