The Greatest Summer in Baseball History - John Rosengren - Bog

"In 1973, baseball was in crisis. The first strike in pro sports had soured fans, game attendance had fallen, and America's team the Yankees had lost more games and money than ever. Baseball was facing a bust. Yet, five of baseball's greatest figures saved the sport and returned it to its pedestal as America's pastime. Powerhouse Hank Aaron surprised the nation by beating Babe Ruth's home run record in the face of racist threats. George Steinbrenner purchased the Yankees at a bargain and bought back their faded glory. The introduction of the designated hitter divided the American League and the National leagued but extended the careers of senior players such as Orlando Cepeda. An elderly and ailing Willie Mays nearly helped the Mets pulls off a miracle with the final swing of his career. And, Reggie Jackson, the MVP of a tense World Series game, became the prototype for the modern superstar. They changed baseball forever"--