Old "Rooftop" was a fan favorite during the World Series run in 1984. Jones was a journey-man who signed a one-year deal to platoon in Sparky's outfield. He came to Detroit to win a championship and for the obvious allure of gorgeous Michigan women and wild night life. Ruppert had less at bats in his season in Detroit than in any other year in his career, sharing time in left field with Larry Herndon and generally starting against lefties. With his perfect fu manchu mustache, one can only imagine how many at-bats Ruppert had off the diamond while prowling the hot streets of Trenton, MI.
Roooo-pert hit 12 home runs and 37 RBI in just over 200 at-bats. More important to Tiger fans was the Rupert "waggle", which drove the beautiful Motown ladies crazy. A pioneer like Elvis, Jones let his hips do the talking in between swings. He could "shake that ass" like Mystical and brought the crowd to a frenzy with his tape measure home run shots. He earned his "Rooftop" moniker on June 24th of that season when he cleared the roof in right field at Tiger Stadium. Ruppert is one of only 20 professionals to have cleared that roof, a list that includes such legends as Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle (3), Harmon Killebrew, Frank Howard, Reggie Jackson and George Brett.
Ultimately, Detroit fans were only teased as Ruppert signed with California the next season and hit only 17 HR on twice as many at-bats. Like all players on the 1984 roster, Jones has a special place in the heart of fans as his batter's box antics gave kids everywhere something to emulate and sweet dreams to the beautiful ladies of Michigan.
This is so true. I agree with you 100%, Mazeroski.
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