Sabres' prospect Myers throws out first pitch at Bisons game

By Charles H. Roberts III

He stands about two inches taller than the gangly, but long-time powerhouse pitcher Randy Johnson.

And that’s about the only comparison you will ever see drawn between Johnson and the Buffalo Sabres 19-year-old defenseman Tyler Myers.

“It was a nice catch by the mascot,” Myers said with a chuckle, after whimsically lobbing the first pitch about four feet above the strike zone.

Although his pitching skills certainly could use some polishing, or a complete makeover, the youngster knows the Sabres expect big things from him next season. Tonight was probably a well-deserved break.

“It’s exciting for sure,” Myers said. “I’ve been here for about two weeks now and it’s been a lot of fun ever since I got here, but throwing the opening pitch here was definitely a fun experience and I enjoyed it.”

“First time (throwing out a first pitch) for me and it was exciting.”

As for his on-the-ice preparation, Myers knows the Sabres will be looking for him to step up in a big way. It was pretty much a foregone conclusion that he would not see any time in the NHL last season, as the then rookie was simply too light at 207 pounds (6-foot-8).

A year and 13 pounds later, the now 220-pound Myers believes his game, mindset and physique are where they need to be.

“Obviously the year of experience helps me out a lot,” Myers said. “I’m a lot more comfortable just knowing what’s coming. Last year I was a bit overwhelmed. Like I said, I’ve settled in and things are getting a lot more comfortable.”

As for his weight; let’s get one thing clear. Myers still has a way to go. The lengthy teenager who the Sabres hope will be the cornerstone of their defense for years to come knows it too. Myers has progressed, but knows that it’s been a difficult task packing on pounds, yet is hopeful with his gains (in both age and weight) will make the road ahead an easier course.

“I’d have to say just gaining weight over the years,” Myers said, when asked what has been the most difficult task he’s faced entering year two. “At my height it’s hard to put on the pounds, but hopefully now, I’ve finally stopped growing up and I can start growing out.”

“I’m going to be here for a week after the summer camp working with them (the trainers).”

Shame on Bills for allowing number 83 to remain in use

By Charles H. Roberts III

It’s been 10 years since the Ralph Wilson Stadium PA announcer belted out, “From Kutztown State, nuuuuumber 83, Andreeeeee Reeeed,” followed by an overwhelming roar from the crowd.

Reed, arguably the best Buffalo Bill of all-time and unquestionably the best Bills receiver of all-time had a career that fizzled toward the end, but sparkled with triumph at its peak.

The fearless ball of fury, whose chiseled frame took a beating during his 14 years in Buffalo ranks amongst some of the NFL’s all-time greats. His receptions (951) currently rank sixth, career receiving yards (13,198) 10th, receiving touchdowns (87) 11th and career playoff games started (21) rank eighth. He was a seven-time Pro Bowler.

Say what you want about the rest of the big names from that early-nineties Bills team. They are all worthy of the respect that comes with not necessarily “retiring” their jersey number, but simply not putting it into play. Had Todd Collins wanted to snatch Jim Kelly’s number 12 when Jimbo finally hung up the cleats, the universal response would have been like a late-eighties Mike Tyson blow to the jaw. The same can be said about Thurman Thomas’s number 34, or Bruce Smith’s number 78.

Their jersey numbers were simply untouchable – and for obvious reason.

Kelly’s career statistics, although very impressive, do not include a single all-time figure inside of 15. Thomas made the cut, as his career rushing-attempts (2,877) rank 12th, rushing yards (12,074) rank 13th and yards from scrimmage (16,532) eighth. Smith is obviously is in a league of his own. Kelly and Thomas were both five-time Pro Bowlers. Smith made the trip to Honolulu 11 times.

Kelly and Thomas are both in the Hall of Fame, while Smith’s induction is forthcoming. Reed, like many of the game’s great retired receivers continues to be snubbed in that department. That’s a whole separate conversation.

As for why his number remains in play in Buffalo – that’s just flat-out disgraceful. It’s a small act for a guy who played his heart out and will likely be over-looked by Hall of Fame voters for at least a few more years. His departure from Buffalo may not have been rainbows and butterflies, but let’s not forget that Thomas went on to play for the then arch-rival Miami Dolphins and Smith for the Washington Redskins.

Three years ago, the Bills did the right thing and put Reed's name and number on their Wall of Fame. Although the damage is essentially already done, it’s time to politely ask Lee Evans to show some respect for one of the game’s all-time greats.

Bisons, Mayor Byron Brown pay tribute to late Mayor Griffin

By Charles H. Roberts III

The Bisons honored former Buffalo Mayor James D. Griffin, a long-time supporter of baseball in Western New York and certainly a vital component to getting Pilot Field, now Coca-Cola Field built, when they renamed the plaza outside the park “James D. Griffin Plaza” on Tuesday, June 30.

“It is very fitting that we rename this plaza for Mayor Griffin,” current Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said. “His relentless efforts to get this stadium built are why we have this and why we are here today.”

The ceremony lasted about 30 minutes, with speeches given by Bisons vice president and general manager Mike Buczkowski and Tommy Griffin, the late Mayor’s son. A plaque in Griffin’s name will be hung near the Swan Street gate.

“I can’t think of a more fitting place to honor my father than Pilot Field,” Tommy Griffin said.

In addition to the plaque and renaming of the plaza, an announcement was made that donations are being accepted in an effort to have an approximately 12-15 foot statue built outside the ballpark. Early renderings of the statue portray the south-pawed Griffin in a shirt and tie with his sleeves rolled-up, throwing out the first pitch.

Initial reports are that they will need to raise between $80-100,000 for the plans to come to fruition. For more information on how and when to donate, visit bisons.com.