Mark Souder: “Mr. Speaker, H. Res. 195, introduced by the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Gutierrez), celebrates and congratulates Sammy…”

“Mr. Speaker, H. Res. 195, introduced by the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Gutierrez), celebrates and congratulates Sammy Sosa of the Chicago Cubs for hitting 500 major league home runs. It is a unique honor to bring up this legislation to recognize the accomplishments of Sammy Sosa of the Chicago Cubs, who certainly is one of the greatest ball players of our generation, and likely of all time. While the resolution before us this afternoon congratulates him for hitting his 500th home run earlier this season, I believe it is also appropriate to recognize his many accomplishments, on and off the field, as a superlative hitter, goodwill ambassador for his native Dominican Republic and, most importantly, as the exemplification of the best qualities the game of baseball holds for every American. Let me start with Sammy's formidable accomplishments and sustained excellence on the field. I am told that the record today literally will not hold a listing of each of his 500 career home runs. He is just the 18th player in the history of baseball to reach this milestone.”