How Big Is This, Really? by Josh Rawitch

‘Once-in-a-Generation Opportunity’

Across our nation, the mere mention of “Cooperstown” conjures visions of Americana and our National Pastime. Those of us who live here like to remind everyone else that there is so much more to this town than the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, but to many, the two are synonymous. Whether you have lived in Otsego County for 50 years or 50 days, you have seen how intertwined this special village and our unique institution have become since 1939, and it is never more evident than during our annual Hall of Fame Weekend.

In late July, tens of thousands of baseball fans descend upon our village to celebrate the latest inductees, but this summer will be different. The Class of 2025—Dick Allen, Dave Parker, CC Sabathia, Ichiro Suzuki and Billy Wagner—represent 18 different Major League teams, including numerous cities within driving distance of Central New York. Their fans will surely flock to Cooperstown to honor these legendary men.

Yet the election of Ichiro is likely to bring an entirely new tourist demographic to Otsego County. As the first Japanese player to be honored with a plaque in our hallowed gallery, the chance to showcase our area to a new international audience is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. The hospitality we show this summer will resonate like never before. Cooperstown will make memories that will be cherished on the other side of the world.