A Moment in Time: An American Story of Baseball, Heartbreak, and Grace

Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Branca tells the story behind “the shot heard ’round the world” that has been called “the most dramatic moment in sports history.” He is unfortunately best known as the pitcher who gave up the home run to Bobby Thomson that won the pennant for the 1951 Giants. He endured ridicule and threats, but later learned that Thomson was aided by an elaborate sign-stealing scheme devised by Giants manager Leo Durocher. He chose to remain silent, but “struggled with anger and resentment” for years. The book “represents the resolution of that resentment and the dissolution of the rage.” Aside from the story surrounding the infamous home run, Branca offers a fascinating tale of a golden age of baseball dominated by the three New York teams that included the breaking of the color barrier by Jackie Robinson. Acclaimed author Ritz (Divided Soul: The Life of Marvin Gaye) maintains focus and pace without subduing Branca’s voice or personality to render a story with appeal to all sports fans. (Nov.)