I was sad to read that the pitcher who had the single greatest one-game accomplishment in baseball history passed away yesterday.

Ellis is the only player ever to have pitched a no-hitter while tripping on acid. It's an achievement that's likely to stand unparalleled for a long time, both because of the degree of difficulty and also the change in culture. Modern players are more money and success oriented, so they use speed, cocaine, steroids - all the "turn-you-into-an-aggressive-egomaniac" type substances. It's doubtful they'd take LSD even recreationally, let alone on the mound.

This is regrettable. More players in more sports should be on LSD - it would make the games far less predictable regardless of game situation. Things like the kneel-down by the quarterback would be much more uncertain and exciting - pretty much anything could happen. And players would be more thoughtful and have greater perspective. Perhaps more would find the Lord, mid-play, and realize the unimportance of the entire endeavor. The possibilities are endless.

So rest in peace, Dock Ellis - hopefully, other players will one day follow in your footsteps.