This week I honor my good friend J.R. Richard, on what would have been his 73rd birthday on March 7th.

His story, is the classic Greek tragedy, where our hero, at the height of his powers, is taken down by forces beyond his control.

Standing on the precipice of greatness and immortality, The Biggest Lion In The Valley, was nothing short of shock and awe for poor National League batters, as he overpowered his contemporaries with a dazzling array of 100 MPH fastballs. a slider that topped out at 94 MPH, and a curveball with serious bite, destroying lineups.

Shortly after, his memorable start in the 1980 All Star Game, he would collapse on the turf of the Astrodome, the victim of a stroke. From there his life spiraled downward out of control. as he lost his wife, his cars, his home, his businesses and his pride. He hit rock bottom, when it is discovered, he is living under a highway bridge, just minutes away from the Astrodome, where he once thrilled so many fans with his exploits. Eventually, JR would find himself back to living a normal life before his death in 2021, through the power of God and the small circle of friends he trusted around him. I am proud to say, I was one of those people. We had a friendship I will never forget. This is his story.

#HoustonAstros #JRRichard #BlackAces