BOTTOM OF THE 33RD Hope and Redemption in Baseball's Longest Game

On a cold Easter morning in 1981, the Rochester Red Wings and the Pawtucket Red Sox started an early-season Class AAA baseball game. No one knew it would take more than eight hours, scores of at-bats, and hundreds of pitches—not to mention continuation two months later—to complete what became the longest-ever professional ballgame. Dan Barry’s beautifully written, well-researched account covers the participants on the field and behind the scenes. Some went on to greatness (two are in the Hall of Fame); some faded into obscurity. Their stories come alive with the author’s wonderful, at-ease narration. His East Coast accent is perfect for the Rhode Island setting, and production techniques are appropriate when he imitates broadcasters. A fascinating, detailed account. M.B. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2011]