Stars retire Mincher's No. 5
Through his work, Mincher established the Stars as a staple in the Tennessee Valley. On Friday night, the Stars honored Mincher by retiring the number he wore as a Major Leaguer in a pregame ceremony.
Stars general manager Buck Rogers invited Mincher, his wife, Pat, and former GM Bryan Dingo onto the field to recognize Mincher and announce the retirement of his number.
"If you will notice on the banner," Rogers said as he directed the fans to the banner in right field that features a picture of Mincher and the No. 5, "it says. 'PLAYER,' 'GM,' 'OWNER,' and 'MENTOR.' Notice it does not say League President. Because he truly is a mentor. Shortly after I took this job in February, I learned that there is not a day that goes by that I can't pick up the phone and call Don and asked for his help.
"Mr. Mincher has meant so much to this team, this organization and this city, and tonight we would like to thank him for everything that he has done by retiring the No. 5."
Rogers, with the assistance of Matt Price, presented Pat Mincher with a dozen roses and a bottle of champagne to thank her for her support and contribution over the years.
"Trust me. For every successful man in this business, there is a strong, supportive woman, and the Stars would not be where we are today without Mrs. Mincher's support," Rogers said.
Mincher wore the No. 5 as a Major Leaguer in the 1960s and '70s. In his 13-year career, he compiled 200 home runs, two All-Star selections and a World Series ring in 1972 as a member of the Oakland A's.