Padres: Tony Gwynn Welcomed by California HOF, It’s About Time

Earlier this month, Tony Gwynn was inducted into the California Hall of Fame. It is about time the Padres’ legend is recognized by more than the team.

It goes without saying that Tony Gwynn was one of the best if not the best ever to put on a San Diego Padres uniform. Putting forth twenty seasons in a legendary career, Gwynn never put on a different uniform. He hit a stunning .338 in his decorated career, driving in an amazing 1138 runs.

Gwynn is a shoe-in for Major League Baseball’s Hall of Fame, and now one of the latest inductees into the state of California’s Hall of Fame.

The new inductees will be recognized on November 30th at a ceremony taking place at the California Museum in Sacramento.

Governor Jerry Brown described 2016’s inductees as individuals who “made remarkable achievements in science, philanthropy, sports, business, entertainment, literature, technology, activism and politics.”

More from Friars on Base

• Fernando Tatis Jr. may not take to outfield move after Xander Bogaerts addition
• Padres News: Fernando Tatis Jr. trade rumors, Seth Lugo chase, Manny Machado
• Padres barely missed out on high-end veteran starting pitcher
• This veteran DH target seems ideal for contending Padres roster
• Padres got steal with Xander Bogaerts after Carlos Correa’s mega-deal

Gwynn obviously falls under the sports category, and does so as one of California’s best.

A former San Diego State Aztec, the inductee has deep ties to California. He was born in Los Angeles, went to high school in Long Beach, and spent his collegiate and professional careers in San Diego.

Gwynn’s loyalty to Southern California and success in his decorated career is unparalleled in baseball. At no other point was there a player who did so much for an organization, a region, and a state. 56 years of his life have been devoted to improving California, the very reason why Gwynn will never be forgotten.

Next: Who is Early Front-Runner to Start on Opening Day?

Participating in both National League pennants won by the Padres, Gwynn’s loyalty is impressive. Not only is he an all-time baseball great, he is a California legend. This is more than evident based on his life long commitment to the state, and the amazing accomplishments he was able to achieve.