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A Seedy, Behind-the-Scenes Look at America's Pasttime

A 1986 interview with former Yankees pitcher Jim Bouton. In 1970, his memoir Ball Four was published. Those who wanted to maintain major league baseball's image as the home of heroes were scandalized by the book; others thought it was about time someone revealed that baseball is full of real people and real problems. Ball Four made an enemy for Bouton of baseball legend Mickey Mantle by reminiscing about Mantle's on- and off-field drunkenness.

10:43

Other segments from the episode on April 21, 1995

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, April 21, 1995: Interview with Mickey Mantle; Interview with Jim Bouton; Review of the film "Kiss of Death"; Interview with Frank Robinson; Interview with Bob Gibson;…

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