This week in City of Tucson history.
David Shelley Duncan Born in Tucson on September 29, 1979
David Shelley Duncan was born on September 29, 1979, in Tucson, Arizona. He grew up in a baseball family, with his father, Dave Duncan, being a former MLB catcher and pitching coach. David attended Canyon del Oro High School and then played college baseball for the University of Arizona. Drafted by the New York Yankees in 2001, he made his MLB debut in 2007. He played as a left fielder, designated hitter, and first baseman for the Yankees, Cleveland Indians, and Tampa Bay Rays. After retiring as a player, he became a coach, focusing on developing young players. David maintained strong ties to Tucson, often participating in local baseball events and mentoring young athletes. His achievements in baseball and his connection to his hometown made him a respected figure in the community.
2007: “The True Meaning of Smekday” adapted into film.
In 2007, Adam Rex’s children’s book, “The True Meaning of Smekday,” gained prominence, later adapted into the 2015 film “Home” by DreamWorks Animation.
