Ray Fosse has been a major part of the Oakland A’s over the decades. From his time as a player to his years as a broadcaster, Fosse was someone that the generations had in common. He was essentially a family member, someone that would visit for a few hours almost every evening in the spring and summer.
But now those days are over. Fosse passed after a long battle with cancer, leaving a tremendous void both in the broadcast booth and in the organization. This place with the A’s cannot be questioned, especially after he was named as the final member of the team’s upcoming Hall of Fame class.
Oakland A’s should retire Ray Fosse’s number
While Fosse’s induction into the A’s Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute, more should be done to honor his memory. There needs to be an even more notable memorial for all that he meant to the team. The A’s should retire his number and include him in their Ring of Honor.
Fosse was not a force in the lineup during his time with the A’s. He only produced a .222/.262/.320 batting line in his 901 plate appearances, hitting 11 homers and 34 doubles. Injuries had ruined what was a promising career as the former All Star was a shadow of his former self with the bat.
However, Fosse was also a stellar defensive catcher. His presence behind the plate was considered to be a stabilizing force for the A’s rotation as he was able to guide them through any situation. It may not have appeared in his box score, but Fosse was an important part of the A’s success during his time behind the plate.
His legacy also includes his time in the booth. Fosse began appearing on A’s games in 1986, and was there for some of the biggest moments since. Considering how many players have come and gone in that time, it is possible to say that Fosse was the A’s.
The Oakland A’s need to find a way to continue to honor Ray Fosse’s legacy. Retiring his number and putting him in the Ring of Honor would work.