Spring Training

Spring training is an American tradition dating back to the early years of the twentieth century, a time of renewal both for the players and the fans. William Zinsser vividly brings to life the unique once-o-year relationship between Bradenton, Florida, and its adopted team, the Pittsburgh Pirates. In 1988 the Pirates were a promising young team with hopes of competing for the National League pennant. Given rare access to players, coaches, and even umpires, along with general manager Syd Thrift and manager Jim Leyland, Zinsser sought to discover how a team prepares - both physically and mentally - for the long season ahead. The names and the faces may have changed, yet Zinsser's book is as valid today in revealing how the fundamentals of baseball are taught and learned as it was when first published. This is highlighted in the new introduction and postscript, which includes a lengthy interview with Leyland about the lessons that can be learned from losing. Infused with a reporter's curiosity and a fan's lifelong love of the game, Spring Training captures the thrill of possibilities woven into the very fabric of each new season.