For years, Lew Ford has been a symbol of a baseball enthusiast. During the mid-2000s, he was a key figure in the Minnesota Twins’ outfield. Ford managed to find his place as a player capable of handling various aspects. He excelled in hitting for average, showcased speed on the bases, and demonstrated a reliable glove. Despite his days as a big-league regular coming to an end in 2007, his love for the game remained unwavering.

The Baseball Lifer Who Keeps Defying Age

Early Years in the Majors

Ford's MLB career may not immediately catch one's attention. Over six seasons, he hit.268/.345/.399 (.744). His best season was in 2004 when he slashed.299/.381/.446 (.827) with 15 home runs and 20 steals. In Minnesota, his hustle and versatility made him a fan favorite, affectionately known as "Lewww!" by the Metrodome crowd.Even after his time in the majors ended, Ford continued to play. He became a journeyman, suiting up for teams in different countries before joining the Long Island Ducks. In 14 seasons with the Ducks, he became a cornerstone of the franchise. He won the Atlantic League Player of the Year award in 2014 and helped the team achieve multiple championships. He holds the team record for hits and is third all-time in the Atlantic League, with a.318 batting average.

Defying Age in the Later Years

In 2023, at the age of 47, Ford was still making an impact. He had a.340/.389/.460 slash line in 100 at-bats, with nine doubles and a home run. These are astonishing figures for a player 17.6 years older than the average age in his league. His ability to perform well into his 40s is truly remarkable. Many players struggle to stay productive in their early 30s, but Ford adapted his game to remain relevant and serve as a positive role model for his teammates.He has also been a mentor to younger players. Players like Jordany Valdespin (2018) and Steve Lombardozzi (2021) earned Atlantic League Player of the Year honors with his guidance. His dedication to teaching the next generation while competing on the field shows his enduring love for the sport.

Managerial Success and Future Prospects

In 2024, Ford became the Ducks' manager. In his first season, the Ducks fought for a playoff spot until the final weekend and finished with a winning record for the ninth time in the last ten seasons. Ten players from the Ducks had their contracts purchased by Major League organizations or foreign professional leagues. The Twins even signed two Ducks, outfielder Tyler Dearden and infielder Rixon Wingrove.Although Ford stepped away from playing, his future in baseball seems certain. His impact on the Long Island Ducks and the baseball community as a whole is undeniable. Whether 2023 was his final hurrah or just another chapter in his story, Lew Ford's legacy as baseball's ageless wonder is firmly established.What's your favorite memory of Ford? Leave a COMMENT and start the discussion.