The Legacy of Pinky Deras

Art, a former baseball player whose career was cut short when he failed to report to Cardinals camp, transitioned into a 29-year career with the Warren police department in Michigan. His funeral in 2022 highlighted his remarkable achievements in Little League, where he pitched 108 innings, recorded 298 strikeouts, and maintained an impressive 18-0 record, contributing to his team's victory in the 1959 Little League World Series. Family and friends reminisced about his legendary statistics and the impact he had on their lives. During the service, Art's family displayed cherished photographs from his Little League days, showcasing the joy and pride he brought to the sport. His son, Kevin, reflected on his father's legacy, recalling a moment when Art expressed pride in having played catch with baseball great Stan Musial. Despite the accolades, Kevin noted that Art never pushed him into baseball, allowing him to explore his own interests while still fostering a love for the game. Kevin also touched on the complexities of Art's relationship with his own baseball past, suggesting that his father may have felt a sense of disappointment regarding unfulfilled potential. This sentiment was echoed in conversations about Art's reluctance to discuss his Little League career, hinting at a deeper emotional struggle. As the family navigated their grief, they remembered Art not just as a player, but as a devoted father who maintained a close bond with his children, calling them every morning at 5 a.m.