“Until the Wheels Fall Off” (Hoppy Endings, pre FA Sim 1) [PP:2058.01]
Posted: Fri Jan 26, 2024 12:25 pm
Longtime BBA fans have been wondering when the iconic 1B/3B Steven “Scooter” Collins III will retire. Casual fans are shocked this is still even a question with Scooter at age 41. But in a BBA climate where a lot of old-heads continue to hang around and put the exclamation mark on their esteemed careers, Edmonton’s longtime favorite will also gas up and give it another go in 2058.
Despite reduced playing time, a lot of things factor into Steven’s desire to keep plugging away. Foremost in his mind is his possible Brewster Hall of Fame credentials. He’s played in over 3000 games in the BBA with a lifetime .306 average and a net 80.9 WAR. His run total (2,086) is particularly impressive. The BBA HOF is a tough club to crack, but Scooter is at least hoping for some votes down the road.
In his final stanza with the Jackrabbits, management has also carved out a comfortable role for the veteran that works for both parties. He often slots into the lineup vs lefties, usually as leadoff hitter. His on-base percentage isn’t what it used to be, but his baserunning and ability to swipe bags are still very legit. In the last two seasons with the Jackrabbits, he’s stole 18 bases and only been caught twice. Even as the other bats get bigger and younger around him, his role on the basepaths is still important to the team.
“Of course, his playing time is limited at this point,” explained GM Mike Bauer. “But he has an important role on our team and has enough ammo to help us as a role player. The fans still can’t get enough of him as the heart and soul of the franchise. It’s rare for a player to have his number be retired in the team Hall of Fame but still be a part of the festivities. That’s why Scooter and our team have taken a ‘ride it until the wheels fall off’ approach.”
“I still have plenty left, especially in these old legs,” said Collins. “Got a little bit of game still in me. There’ll be plenty of time to chase the grandkids down the road and chase them I will. No more questions about retirement. I'll know when it's time.”
Despite reduced playing time, a lot of things factor into Steven’s desire to keep plugging away. Foremost in his mind is his possible Brewster Hall of Fame credentials. He’s played in over 3000 games in the BBA with a lifetime .306 average and a net 80.9 WAR. His run total (2,086) is particularly impressive. The BBA HOF is a tough club to crack, but Scooter is at least hoping for some votes down the road.
In his final stanza with the Jackrabbits, management has also carved out a comfortable role for the veteran that works for both parties. He often slots into the lineup vs lefties, usually as leadoff hitter. His on-base percentage isn’t what it used to be, but his baserunning and ability to swipe bags are still very legit. In the last two seasons with the Jackrabbits, he’s stole 18 bases and only been caught twice. Even as the other bats get bigger and younger around him, his role on the basepaths is still important to the team.
“Of course, his playing time is limited at this point,” explained GM Mike Bauer. “But he has an important role on our team and has enough ammo to help us as a role player. The fans still can’t get enough of him as the heart and soul of the franchise. It’s rare for a player to have his number be retired in the team Hall of Fame but still be a part of the festivities. That’s why Scooter and our team have taken a ‘ride it until the wheels fall off’ approach.”
“I still have plenty left, especially in these old legs,” said Collins. “Got a little bit of game still in me. There’ll be plenty of time to chase the grandkids down the road and chase them I will. No more questions about retirement. I'll know when it's time.”