"The Kingdome is where I learned to hit in the majors," says Alvin Davis.

 

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Alvin Davis

Mr. Mariner Excited About New Mariner Park, But Loved The Dome

Alvin Davis, who hit 160 home runs in his nine big league seasons, thought it was great the Seattle Mariners were getting a new baseball park. But he told PAO.ORG that the Kingdome held a special place in his heart. "That is where I learned to hit in the majors," said Davis. "Playing in the Dome affected my swing. When I first came up, I hit to all fields. But with that short right field porch, I started to fashion my swing for the park and became a pull hitter."

Playing on Astroturf, however, was not one of Alvin's favorite things. "Not playing on real grass really takes a lot out of your legs," lamented Davis. "And any athlete will tell you that when your legs go, you're done. After I quit playing, it took at least three years for my legs to heal."

Fenway Was My Favorite

Fabled Fenway Park in Boston remains one of the most cherished ballparks for Alvin Davis. "It's old and beautiful. So full of baseball history," said Davis. "Between the lines, it was the greatest of thrills to play there. I got to play in a big league exhibition game in Dodger Stadium and that was my boyhood dream."

Longest Davis Homer

Which ballpark holds the distinction as allowing the longest home run Alvin ever hit? "The Metrodome in 1991," said Davis. "I once hit one into the third deck at the Kingdome. Man, what a thrill. Homers just stop time. They get all the attention. Everybody watches, the fans, the players, the umps, the TV and radio people, from the moment the ball leaves the bat until the player touches home plate." And we'll remember yours, Mr. Davis, for a long time to come.