Bases loaded with 2 outs, the Milwaukee Millers are down by 3 runs, as their worst batter comes up to the plate. Little Andy Oyler wonders if he can finally break out of his hitting slump in spring 1903. As the rain begins, the umpire cries “Play ball!” hoping for a quick final out so everyone can get out of the storm.
Rain-soaked, the pitcher’s throw veers straight for Andy’s head! Somehow, Andy manages to get the bat up to protect his face – and hits the ball! But where did it go? The St. Paul Saints’ infielders scramble through puddles to find it, while the outfielders search in the mud for the soggy ball. The runners are all going! Can the Millers really win the game?
Tavares’ pencil sketches evoke old-time movie newsreels as he skillfully goes back to the early days of baseball and what might be the shortest home run ever.
Recommended by: Katy Manck, Librarian-at-Large (retired academic/corporate/school librarian), Gilmer, Texas, USA
