The Story of Teddy Ballgame’s Wildest Day
From SABR member Chris Jaffe at The Hardball Times on May 12:
20,000 days ago today, Ted Williams had one of those days that explained why he was so widely maligned while simultaneously revealing his impressive abilities as a player.
It was a Red Sox-Yankee game typified by great pitching, not hitting, as it went into extra innings tied 0-0. Yankee legend-to-be Don Larsen was having an outstanding day. In his 10+ innings pitching, he allowed only four hits—three to Boston right fielder Jackie Jensen. Ted Williams could manage no more than a walk against him. Boston starter Willard Nixon matched Larsen frame-for-frame, though.
For Williams, the fun began in the 11th inning in the still-scoreless game. With two outs and no one on in the top of the 11th at Fenway, Williams misplayed a Mickey Mantle fly ball, allowing the young star to scamper to second base. Fans clearly didn’t think much of Williams’ defense; they booed him loudly. Williams didn’t react to it right then and there—but he wasn’t the kind of man to forgive and forget.
Read the full article here: http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/blog_article/20000-days-since-wild-day-for-ted-williams/
Originally published: May 12, 2011. Last Updated: May 12, 2011.