Stan Musial (1920–2013)

This is a primary source on Musial, written in the first person singular. No doubt embellished by Bob Broeg but with details that only Musial would know about. It sets the record straight. A modest and honest account of his remarkable career.

Did you know that Musial:
• once charged after a beanball pitcher? (page 57)
• was sometimes lifted for pinch hitters?(55)
• was once so nervous in the batter’s box that he swallowed his gum? (13)
• believed that good hitters are born, not made?
• was “relieved” to be drafted into World War II?(83)
• always lost weight in the offseason because of his anxiety about speaking appearances? (132)
• was not above haggling over his salary?
• was almost traded to the Phillies for Robin Roberts? (177)
• had 20-20 vision into his forties? (245)

He discusses the highs and lows of the St. Louis Cardinals and laments the losses of Johnny Mize and Walker Cooper to trades. The managers he played for, the stars he knew, the art and science of hitting. Personal reminiscenses and amusing anecdotes. His choices for a National League All-Star team during the years he played. Recommended to baseball fans, especially those partial to St. Louis.… (más)