The Power of Winning for the City: Eric Davis' Message to the Cincinnati Reds
Goodyear, Arizona - Envision the impact of a World Series championship on Cincinnati and its surrounding communities. It's a feeling that resonates deeply with Eric Davis, a legendary figure in the history of the Cincinnati Reds. In a powerful speech to the team before their spring training workout, Davis emphasized the importance of playing for something greater than personal accolades.
"You play for something bigger than individual awards," he told the players. "You play for the city."
Davis, a key member of the Reds' 1990 World Series-winning team, shared his insights at the request of manager Terry Francona. The team's current players, none of whom were born when the Reds last won the World Series in 1990, needed to hear from a franchise champion. Davis' message was clear: winning for the city is a shared responsibility and a source of pride for the entire community.
In an interview, Davis expressed his own longing for celebration, recalling his absence from the parade, ticker-tape event, and White House visit due to a lacerated kidney in Game 4. He emphasized the importance of shared celebration, stating, "I had the success, but I didn't have the celebration, so it feels empty. And the only way I can get it now is through you guys."
Davis' connection to the Reds spans two decades, having joined the team in 1984 and playing nine seasons in Cincinnati. He was an All-Star in 1987 and 1989, and his career could have been even more legendary if not for injuries. Despite his achievements, Davis has remained a senior advisor to Reds president Nick Krall since 2008, a role that allows him to pass on his wisdom to the next generation of players.
Francona, who played with Davis in 1987, praised his teammate's heartfelt speech. Davis drew upon the rich history of the Reds, highlighting players like Barry Larkin, Frank Robinson, Vada Pinson, Lee May, Jim O'Toole, Johnny Vander Meer, Tony Perez, and the legendary 'Big Red Machine' team.
He particularly emphasized the stories of Larkin and Robinson, both Hall of Famers. Davis wanted the players to understand that even though Robinson never won a World Series with the Reds, he played in one in 1961, and his competitive spirit and team-first mindset were unparalleled. Robinson's achievements, including multiple MVP awards and a triple crown, were a testament to his dedication to the team's success.
As the Reds prepare for the upcoming season, Davis' message will undoubtedly resonate with the players, reminding them of the power of winning for the city and the legacy of greatness that the franchise embodies.
