Happy 70th to Dick Allen!

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Today is Dick Allen's 70th birthday.

Growing up in the 1960s, "Richie" Allen was one of my favorite Phillies players back then. I was sorry to see him go after the 1969 season, but he DID wear out his welcome, and what the heck, WE were getting Curt Flood in return.

The Phillies' fanbase was abuzz with excitement and anticipation when he returned in 1975.



About a year or 2 ago, I watched Bob Costas interview Dick Allen on the MLB Network. He has really mellowed out over the years; soft-spoken, and had nice things to say about Gene Mauch, Frank Thomas, and others.

I read his autobiography, "Crash" about a year ago. It was interesting to get his "inside" view, and learn about his early years as a high school basketball star.

Happy Birthday Crash!