Jimmy Campanis was an original Royal and played in KC from 1969-1970. The son of the late Dodgers GM Al Campanis, “Campy” caught 61 games while in a Royals uniform after being traded by his Dad from LA to KC! He would later be dealt by the Royals to the Pirates as part of the deal that landed KC Freddie Patek and all in all, spent parts of six seasons at the Big League level. He recently joined Dave O to talk lots about his father Al, including some amazing Jackie Robinson stories, his thoughts on coming over to KC, how “truly first class” the Royals organization was, memories of many deceased teammates and lots more! (Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals)
Bravo Dave O! Wonderful interview. Jimmy wasn’t exactly a memorable Royal, but I do remember him because he was part of that original Royals team. But Jim’s memory of his short time with KC his impeccable and touching. His tearful recollection of the Kauffmans visiting his wife in the hospital—WOW. That’s the Kauffmans personified. He went on quite a bit about how well the players were treated back then too. After the A’s and Finley, even as a kid, I had a notion that the Royals were going to be classy—and I was right.