West Hempstead Man Pinch Hits at Hofstra University Mets Conference

A West Hempstead man stepped up as a pinch hitter during last week’s “50th Anniversary of the New York Mets” conference held at nearby Hofstra University.

Dr. David Schatz, a philosophy professor at Yeshiva University, read a research paper Thursday morning written by National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame Director Alan Freedman entitled, “The Mets and Judaism.” Schatz stepped up to the plate when Freedman was unable to attend the conference for personal reasons.

Freedman’s paper, read and explained by Schatz, addressed the eight Jewish players in Mets history, from Art Shamsky of the 1969 World Series championship team to current first baseman Ike Davis. The presentation delivered by the West Hempstead resident was part of a panel called “You Gotta Believe: The Mets Faithful.”

The three-day academic conference at Hofstra, which ran from April 26-28, examined all aspects of the history and culture of the Mets. Among the many prominent speakers were some members of the Mets 1969 World Series championship team including Shamsky, Bud Harrelson, Ed Kranepool and Ed Charles. The conference was dedicated in memory of Dr. Dana Brand, a Hofstra professor who was former chair of the Department of English and authored books called Mets Fan and The Last Days of Shea.

An exhibit looking back at the 50-year history of the Mets is displayed on the 10th floor of the Axinn Library at Hofstra until May 31. The display features a collection of photos, books and Mets baseball memorabilia.