NBCSports.com's readers share their thoughts on the passing of baseball Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett.

I had the good fortune of watching Kirby play in the 1987 and 1991 World Series Games. He was truly a champion that was admired by myself and my children. My boys loved him as a player. He was there hero. Twins baseball fans will all miss him.
— Roger Ernst, Mina, S.D.

I grew up in Pittsburgh. I watched the greatest right fielder to play the game in Roberto Clemente. I came to Minnesota in 1962. Here I got to see the greatest center fielder to play the game in Kirby Puckett. Sadly they both were taken away from the game they loved to soon. They loved playing the GAME. To them that is what life was about baseball the GAME. Puckett had that infectious smile that lite
— William Dorfner, Hastings, Minn.

Its really a darn shame that pro-players go out in such tragic way,meaning that first they deal with having to leave baseball!Glaucoma claims so many people and when you notice eye trouble it is too late!Secondly to lose such a good ball-player and person at such a young age is even worse,45 is to young when he still had so many years left! May God Be With You Kirby.
— Steven C Anderson, Ruby,Mich.

This is a truly sad day for me as we lost a baseball legend. Kirby Puckett will forever be remembered for his warm hearted smile and his enthusiasm and love for the game. May God bless you Kirby.
— Frank, Tucson, Ariz.

A very sad day for baseball. The fans are very fortunate to have Kirby's memories to remember him by.
— Mike Papagianopoulos, Jamaica, N.Y.

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