cover image We Played the Game: 65 Players Remember Baseball's Greatest Era, 1947-1964

We Played the Game: 65 Players Remember Baseball's Greatest Era, 1947-1964

. Hyperion Books, $34 (643pp) ISBN 978-0-7868-6008-1

Baseball fans would be wrong to dismiss this oral history because it does not include reminiscences by such legendary players as Williams, Musial, DiMaggio and Koufax; Ralph Kiner is the only superstar contributor. With near-greats like Brooks Robinson and George Kell, underpublicized long-term players like Gene Woodling and journeyman athletes, Peary ( Cult Baseball Players ) captures the spirit of a thrilling era in the national pastime. It was the period of racial integration; players were virtual serfs and they expected to serve long apprenticeships in the minor leagues and often bounced back and forth between the majors and the minors. Especially interesting are the players' differing attitudes toward such controversial figures as Casey Stengel and Rogers Hornsby. And there are rousing tales of boozing, camaraderie and, above all, hard work. Photos not seen by PW. (Apr.)