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Larry Walker makes baseball history

Broadcast Date: Nov. 14, 1997

Canada is celebrating baseball's latest hero. On Nov. 14, 1997, B.C. native Larry Walker is named the most valuable player in baseball's National League, the first Canadian in history to win the award. Back in his hometown of Maple Ridge, B.C., his parents tell CBC's Mary Lou Finlay that they have been receiving congratulatory calls all day. "We are so filled with enthusiasm and pride... we're up in the clouds," says Larry Walker Sr.

Although Walker won the Most Valuable Player award playing for an American team, the Colorado Rockies, his roots are staunchly Canadian. "He's very proud to be Canadian," says Mary Walker, in reference to the maple leaf T-shirt her son wore out to the point of disintegration.

Larry Walker makes baseball history

• Larry Kenneth Robert Walker was born on Dec. 1, 1966 in Maple Ridge, B.C.
• Walker received 22 of 28 first placed votes from Baseball Writers Association of America, the group behind the prestigious award.

• As a teenager Walker was more interested in being a hockey player than a baseball star.

• In 1984, a Montreal Expos scout signed Walker as an amateur free agent. He was described as a natural baseball player, known for his size and instinct.

• Richard Griffin of The Toronto Star wrote how the Montreal Expos never fully appreciated Walker. Quebec sovereigntists never embraced Walker, who has always been very vocal about being a proud Canadian.

• After playing for the Montreal Expos from 1989-1994, Walker signed as a free agent with the Colorado Rockies in April 1995. He was then trade to the St. Louis Cardinals in August 2004.

• Walker announced his retirement in October 2005. He had a .313 career average and 2,160 hits. Walker hit 383 home runs and stole 230 bases.

• Walker received the Lou Marsh Trophy in 1998. It is an annual award given by a panel of journalists in recognition of Canada's top athlete.

• The Most Valuable Player award was first presented in 1931. The recipient of this prestigious prize is chosen by the Baseball Writers Association of America. The award symbolizes the height of a player's personal achievement during any single season of play.

• Past MVP award winners include: Jackie Robinson, Willie Mays and Barry Bonds.

Larry Walker makes baseball history

Medium: Radio

Program: As It Happens

Broadcast Date: Nov. 14, 1997

Guest(s): Larry Walker, Mary Walker

Host: Barbara Budd, Mary Lou Finlay

Duration: 5:12

Last updated:
Oct. 18, 2007