2008 Baseball - Homerun Derby Sweetness

Last night was the 2008 Major League Baseball Homerun Derby and it was a stunner. Josh Hamilton did a magnificent job and his story is one for the legends book. I was excited to see history take place for this special event in Yankee stadium. It was the perfect backdrop for another great night in baseball.

I am a big fan of Minnesota Twins baseball as well. Justin Morneau won the homerun derby and in his honor I would like to feature an author that writes about the "best" of baseball, author John Nemo and his book "The King's Game".

Some of the reviews of his book are:

PRAISE FOR THE KING'S GAME
"It's Game 7 of the World Series, and John Nemo provides a pitch-by-pitch narrative that not only showcases his baseball knowledge, but also shows a deft writing skill. Cody King, a tortured soul, relives his life while trying to keep runners off the bases. So much pain, brief moments of happiness and misguided faith: Will King be saved? The answer to that is a powerful metaphor."
- Tampa Tribune

"A compelling, play-by-play story ... As a fatherless son, Cody King grips tightly to his game, desperate to stave off further rejection and running away from his heavenly Father. With the feeling of being at the game, readers will watch Cody's life - with its shocking revelations, tragic losses and career struggles - unfold before their eyes. Finally, he must face the most important decision of his life - before it's too late. The King's Game ... offers the message of salvation loud and clear."
- Christian Retailing

"The King's Game is definitely more than just a simple book about baseball. It's clearly written with a warm perspective on life, too. It's easy to put yourself in the story, which is the objective of any good tale."
- Associated Press

"At its start, The King's Game makes you wonder if a 'real' pitcher could engage in that many - and that interesting - reveries. By its end, John Nemo makes you positive nothing could be more real. This may just be the only time a baseball game moves too quickly."
- SportsIllustrated.com

"A rich, well-told, thought-provoking tale about the precious moments we have on this earth and the role baseball can play in shaping our lives."
- The Tennessean

"The King's Game is a very interesting elaboration of Michael Shaara's For Love of the Game, and, for my money, Nemo's knowledge of baseball beats even Shaara's."
- Tim Morris, Guide to Baseball Fiction

“John Nemo hits a first-pitch home run with The King's Game. Richly sprinkled with characters I felt I had known all my life and scenes I could easily envision.”
– The Tuscaloosa (Ala.) News



Watch the video and let me know your thoughts of Major League Baseball. I know it has a lot of issues but last night is what the game of baseball is all about - a kid on comeback with a second chance at a game he loves - PRICELESS!