George Brett: Last of a Breed

Don Mattingly and Kirby Puckett. Dave Winfield, Nolan Ryan and Robin Yount. Cal Ripken Jr., Ryne Sandberg, Tony Gwynn and, of course, George Brett.
Are these remarkable, enduring, enthusiastic athletes - and so few others - the last of a group which actually enjoys playing baseball while achieving such remarkable success?
Now that Brett has retired after a spectacular career spanning 21 seasons, it's time to put his contributions to the game in historical perspective and, yes, ask whether or not the outstanding players who come along after George and his few hard-charging contemporaries can measure up to his legacy.
Either way, we'll likely be a long time waiting for the next George Brett.