KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals are celebrating their two World Series titles all weekend at the K. Some of the players from the 1985 victory haven’t been back in 40 years, but they are in town for this big reunion. On Saturday morning, FOX4 spoke to Royals legends Willie Wilson and Steve Balboni about their memories from the 1985 season, and the game where they won it all. “Cause we are like seven games out of first place, and all of a sudden we’re in first place, and I just remember the end of this September in every game, and it was so much fun going down the stretch, you know, when every game was so important. And I think we just became closer as a team,” said Balboni, the former first baseman and designated hitter. “It was just, you know, it wasn’t one person—it was pitching, hitting, and defense.” Former Royals centerfielder Willie Wilson also had a few memories to share. “The moment Motley caught the fly ball was probably the most memorable,” he said. “But before that happened, that last game, you know, I was up. And you know, when you go up to the plate, you have to go back and give the team information, and my information to them was Tudor’s not throwing changeups—he’s throwing fastball, fastball.” Wilson continued, “So, when Motley fouled the fastball off, he knew another fastball was coming. That’s when he hit the home run.” The Champions Gala , honoring the 40-year and 10-year anniversaries of the two championship teams, took place on Thursday, May 15, at Union Station. At the event, attendees were given the opportunity to see the players, enjoy a seated dinner and an open bar, and celebrate with programs commemorating the teams’ winning seasons. To conclude the reunion, the 1985 team was honored at Friday night’s game at Kauffman Stadium. On Saturday night, the 2015 team will also be honored. For all things Royals and Kansas City sports, stay tuned with FOX4 News for all the latest coverage.
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