Andre Dawson (The Hawk) Returns to Chicago & to the Chicago Cubs! by Mike Prochaska

I just read in the newspaper that “Hawk” Andre Dawson is returning to work with the Cubs after Miami’s new organization decided they didn’t want him. I don’t understand how any organization wouldn’t want the great Andre Dawson. Andre Dawson is a Hall of Famer with a heart of gold. The first time I met the Hawk was at the Cubs convention. I still remember him continually thanking the fans for their support, signing things, shaking hands and smiling for the fans and just being a great man. Here are 10 facts about Andre Dawson:

1. He was drafted in 1975 in the 11th round when he was spotted by Expos scout, Mel Didier.
2. He signed as a free agent with the Cubs in 1987. He gave the Cubs a blank contract that he signed and told the Cubs to fill in the amount. He didn’t care how much he just wanted to play for the Cubs. I have heard him tell this story himself at the Cubs’ convention.
3. He got his famous nickname, “Hawk,” from his uncle when he was 9.
4. Before Hawk, his family nickname was Pudgy.
5. He reached the playoffs with Montreal and the Cubs, but never got to the World Series.
6. He’s most proud that he won with the 1987 Cubs and his eight Golden Gloves. He’s also proud that he won the Rookie of the Year award – he won with the Expos in 1977.
7. Dawson was beloved by fans at Wrigley Field – more than even Sammy Sosa. 
8. He requested to go into the Hall of Fame wearing a Cubs hat.
9. Dawson went into the Hall of Fame in 2010.
10. While Dawson played only six years with the Cubs, five of his eight All-Star appearances were as a Cub.

Welcome back to the Chicago Cubs, Hawk! We are blessed to have you!

Read more about Andre Dawson via the Chicago Tribune.

Photo: BleacherNation.com