Ollie Charles Vanek (August 23, 1908 — June 29, 2000) was an American professional baseball player, manager and scout. He is best known as the talent-spotter who discovered future Baseball Hall of Famer Stan Musial for the St. Louis Cardinals and encouraged the team to switch Musial from his initial position, a left-handed pitcher, to the outfield — paving the way for Musial's brilliant career as a batsman.
Vanek was an outfielder and third baseman during his minor league playing career from 1930-32 and 1937-46, batting .312 in 1,195 games. In 1937, Vanek was the player-manager of the Monessen Cardinals of the Class D Pennsylvania State Association, one of the many teams in the Cardinals' extensive farm system. Musial, a 16-year-old high-schooler from nearby Donora, Pennsylvania, tried out for Vanek before a game and Vanek recommended that the parent club sign him. The following season, Musial began his professional career in the Cardinal system as a southpaw pitcher and part-time outfielder.
Taking a trip down memory lane
Things have changed
one thing remains
That they will always have each other
And even though those days have gone
They know here is where they belong
Theres some kind of magic in the air
Feel the warmth that only summer breezes can bring
Sweet little notes of spring begin
Nothing to fear
Taking one step at a time walking hand in hand
1 2 3 4 Cheek to cheek
And theyre learning how to do the dance
Let this love be forevermore they say
I wish for this to be true for you and me
Holding her close he leading the way
Out at the park enjoying the day
And you can tell theyll be okay
Feel the warmth that only summer breezes can bring
Sweet little notes of spring begin
Nothing to fear
Taking one step at a time walking hand in hand
1 2 3 4 Cheek to cheek
And theyre learning how to do the dance
Let this love be forevermore they say
I wish for this to be true for you and me
Taking one step at a time walking hand in hand
1 2 3 4 Cheek to cheek
And theyre learning how to do the dance
Let this love be forevermore they say
I wish for this to be true for you and me
To be true for you and me (X3)