Off Base: Confessions of a Thief

Henderson has stolen more bases than any other player in the history of American baseball, and has proven himself a skillful slugger too. He actively promotes his public image with a mouth that moves as fast as his feet. Here sports journalist Shea doesn't slow him down any. On the first pitch, Henderson defends his ``hot dog'' persona, styling himself as an ``entertainer'' who plays to win. Short, choppy sentences carry readers on a quick, predictable tour of Henderson's baseball career from the boyhood ball fields of Oakland, Calif., through the minor leagues to the Oakland Athletics, the New York Yankees and, ultimately, the Athletics again. Covering little controversial material, Henderson pays tribute to his mother (he never knew his father) and focuses on players and managers he respects (e.g., Don Mattingly, the late Billy Martin, Dave Winfield). Fans will revel in this book; others might more enjoyably watch Henderson on the field. Photos not seen by PW. (June)