1960: When the Pittsburgh Pirates Had Them All the Way

This book covers the entire 1960 Pittsburgh Pirates season from spring expectations through a season of destiny culminated by the wildest, most lopsided World Series ever—one which saw a team get battered by outrageous scores, yet prevail over the dynastic Yankees. Profiles of stars such as Roberto Clemente, 1960 Cy Young winner Vern Law, season MVP Dick Groat, and Yankees including Series MVP Bobby Richardson and Mickey Mantle are included.What a wild ride that season was: stunning comebacks were routine for the Bucs; Casey Stengel mis-management probably cost the Yankees the Series; Mantle sobs over his most disappointing baseball experience ever; what should arguably be considered as the most important home run ever takes place with Bill Mazeroski’s walkoff, Series-winning blast; a forgotten hero in Hal Smith is also discussed.There’s more: Yankee pitcher Ralph Terry heroically speaks of the Mazeroski home he served up…Clemente’s bitterness over his lack of recognition…Danny Murtaugh’s managerial skill was a key…Roy Face’s 1959 mastery and his importance in 1960…much humor and colorful characters surrounded this team, mainly focusing on slugger Dick “Strangeglove” Stuart, a horrible defensive first baseman who once received a standing ovation for snagging a hot dog wrapper which blew across the field toward him…the pitching staff and the defense (especially Clemente and Bill Mazeroski) also are heavily featured.The author interviewed almost every living Pirate, making this book and the miraculous 1960 season spring to life. Read it and re-live the 1960 Bucs. Read more