Vada Pinson, a graduate of Oakland's McClymonds High School along with Frank Robinson, Curt Flood and Bill Russell, and was so quiet in his first Spring Training, that coach Jimmy Dykes believed he was Hispanic. Jimmy Dykes spoke to him in gestures and broken English until Pinson finally said: "Mr. Dykes, if there is something you want me to do with my stance, please tell just me." "I finally made a close friend in baseball when Vada Pinson joined the Reds in 1959. We were always together, Vada and I. We roomed together, lockered and dressed side by side. We usually ate breakfast and dinner together. I had never been very close to anyone before, and it felt good." Frank Robinson. Vada Pinson had 2,757 hits, 485 doubles, 127 triples, 256 HR, 1,169 RBI, 305 stolen bases. Four 200-plus hit seasons; Led the league in doubles and triples twice; Won a gold glove; Once played in 508 consecutive games. Vada Pinson is just ONE of TWO players in baseball history with at least 2,700 hits, 450 doubles, 250 home runs, 100 triples, and 300 stolen bases. The other one is Willie Mays. With Frank Robinson. Vida Pinson is in my HOF!!! "My father's enduring wait for recognition has been a testament to his perseverance, but one thing that will forever remain unshaken is the unwavering love and admiration of his devoted fans." Vada Pinson Jr.