Baseball's First Inning - by William J Ryczek (Paperback)

About the Book

This history of America's pastime describes the evolution of baseball from early bat and ball games to its growth and acceptance in different regions of the country. The New York clubs (i.e., the Atlantics, Excelsiors and Mutuals) are a primary focus, serving as examples of how the sport became more sophisticated and popular. The author compares theories about many of baseball's "inventors," exploring the often fascinating stories of several of baseballs oldest founding myths. The impact of the Civil War on the sport is discussed and baseballs unsteady path to becoming America's national game is analyzed at length.

Book Synopsis

This history of America's pastime describes the evolution of baseball from early bat and ball games to its growth and acceptance in different regions of the country. Such New York clubs as the Atlantics, Excelsiors and Mutuals are a primary focus, serving as examples of how the sport became more sophisticated and popular. The author compares theories about many of baseball's "inventors," exploring the often fascinating stories of several of baseball's oldest founding myths. The impact of the Civil War on the sport is discussed and baseball's unsteady path to becoming America's national game is analyzed at length.

Review Quotes

"superbly researched"--Library Journal; "a baseball thrill the near-equal of seeing your son line a double past the third baseman...a 'must have'"--John Shiffert; author of Base Ball in Philadelphia.

About the Author

William J. Ryczek is a finance professional from Wallingford, Connecticut, who writes about early baseball, football, the Yankees, and the Mets.