Houston trip jars Don Cooper's World Series memories

Share

HOUSTON -- Every time he returns to Minute Maid Park, Don Cooper recalls something different from the team’s 2005 World Series victory.

This week’s memory was likely jarred by the presence of the White Sox pitching coach’s son, Luke. Cooper remembers how the two were able to enjoy the celebration after the Game 4 clincher together and how the moment was encapsulated in a photo where Luke, then 8 years old, is hoisted on his father’s shoulders. Both have a victory cigar in their mouths.

“You can’t even see me, and he’s pumping his fist and he has a cigar in his mouth,” Cooper said. “That picture is one of my favorites.”

[MORE SOX: Jose Abreu optimistic, eyes Tuesday return to White Sox]

This is the team’s fourth trip back to Minute Maid Park in the 10 years since the White Sox claimed their first World Series title in 88 years. Cooper has many memories of interactions with his pitchers, his belief the White Sox would win, etc. But he also has reflected on how the team took two planes everywhere from the stretch run to the entire postseason and how it allowed them to share the moment with their families.

“Jerry (Reinsdorf) was nice enough to have the players’ plane and the family behind behind it, so everywhere we went, my family and kids came everywhere,” Cooper said. “Detroit, Boston -- It was like we were having a celebration every week.”

[NBC SPORTS SHOP: Gear up, White Sox fans!]

After they returned to Chicago, Cooper and his son were shocked to find the photo in a newspaper. Cooper said his son was embarrassed by the attention when they discovered the shot while waiting for a ride in the back of a police car.

“I showed him the picture and I said ‘What do you see?’ ” Cooper said. “And he slumped down in his seat.

“When we come here there are things that always flash through my mind.”

Contact Us