Chiefs salute retiring Alex Gordon from across the Truman Sports Complex parking lot
A tip of the cap, or helmet, was delivered from across the Truman Sports Complex Thursday.
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and coach Andy Reid saluted Royals outfielder Alex Gordon, whose retirement after 14 seasons in Kansas City was announced about an hour before the Chiefs held a weekly news conference.
“He’s done everything the right way his entire career,” Mahomes said. “The amount of Gold Gloves that he’s won, seeing him dive around the outfield (when I) was growing up — I don’t want to make him sound old — and throwing people out at the plate.”
“Just being a leader on and off the field. He’s someone who set the example about how to be in the Kansas City community and lead his teams to championships, doing it the right way on and off the field.”
Mahomes has more than a fan’s interest in the decision. In July, the MVP of Super Bowl LIV bought a minority ownership stake in the Royals.
Reid, who became friends with former Royals manager Ned Yost over the years, said he, too, is fan of Gordon’s.
“Big time,” Reid said. “I used to joke that he and Alex Smith looked like brothers and both of them played about as reckless as each other — they were both great athletes.
“I’m happy for Alex ... what a great career. He did it the right way. Kansas City was lucky to have him and he was lucky to have Kansas City.”
The Chiefs also tweeted a message: “Alex Gordon, We can’t thank you enough for all that you have done for Kansas City! Hope to see you real soon back at Arrowhead. #4EverRoyal”