Congratulations to Harold Baines and Lee Smith, two ballplayers who thrilled Chicagoans on both sides of town with mastery of their craft. 

Harold Baines was, quite simply, a professional hitter, who showed up every day to hit -- and hit, and hit. A six-time All Star, Harold played for several teams throughout his 21-year career, but always managed to return to the South Side, where he was beloved by fans. He was a tough out until the day he retired, and has taken his expertise into coaching the next generation of sluggers. 

Lee Smith was instrumental in pioneering the closer role, and his Cooperstown induction is long overdue. The fearsome reliever, a seven-time All Star, intimidated hitters for nearly two decades, and held the record for career saves upon retirement. He was an intimidating presence on the mound, and a gentleman off it. 

Congratulations to Harold and Lee, and to the baseball fans on both sides of town who cheered them on.  

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