Yesterday morning, the Boone family announced that their beloved patriarch, Bob, had passed away. The son of a former All-Star himself, Bob became an incredibly long-lasting catcher in 19 seasons, earning seven Gold Gloves, four All-Star appearances, and a 1980 World Series ring with the Phillies. Seven years before that, his son Aaron was born; he and his brother Bret became the third generation of Boone All-Stars. Bob followed his father Ray into the great cornfield in the sky on Monday at the age
of 78. Our thoughts are with Aaron and his family this week; it almost goes without saying, but speaking from personal experience, it’s such a tough time.
Today on the site, it’s a mix of our current rolling series and breaking news. Jonathan will provide the grade and writeup for erstwhile backup catcher J.C. Escarra’s 2026 campaign, and Peter will celebrate the 124th birthday of a New Jersey native who became a nine-year big leaguer and forgotten Yankee: Ownie Carroll. Also keep an eye out tonight for Michael on the AL Cy Young Award announcement and Jeremy on the reveal of which Yankees made the 2026 All-MLB Team.
Questions/Prompts:
1. Will Cam Schlittler be the unanimous AL Cy Young Award winner tonight, or will someone else get a first-place vote?
2. Same question, but with the Brewers’ Jacob Misiorowski over in the National League.
