A Day In The Bleachers

Justifiably hailed as one the best baseball books, “A Day in the Bleachers” details author Arnold Hano’s first-hand account of Game 1 of the 1954 World Series (Cleveland Indians vs. New York Giants) from his perch in the Polo Grounds bleacher seats. With a keen eye, a sharp ear, and the pounding heart of a true fan, Hano brilliantly captures the sights, sounds, and emotions of the day: his quickened step as he approaches the stadium from the subway (“The sight of the stadium makes me catch my breath.”); the banter between rival fans; insights into strategies; nuances of particular plays; the individual and collective rise and fall of hopes; player analyses; and memories and anecdotes from witnessed games past. There are little show more gems on every page: a perceptive thought, a clever turn of phrase, or an observation that still holds true (“A Yankee fan is a complacent ignorant fat cat.”). Of course, the enduring highlight of this particular game is "The Catch," Willie Mays' sensational over-the-shoulder grab of Vic Wertz's tremendous clout to centerfield, and Hano's description of this famous play adds great depth and understanding to that moment. This is a book that all baseball fans will cherish. show less

"On reflection, I am glad I did not ask the next question, 'Depends on what?' He might have said, in his drawl, 'On whether they got room for us or not.' Still, such a question would deserve such an answer."

This one of baseball's all-time classics- no baseball library is complete without it.,