The Only Del: The Greatest Batsman in the Land - Hardcover

by W. G. Braund (Author)

Charismatic Ed Delahanty, the most talented teenager on the sandlots of Cleveland, is subjected to the same persecution as his fellow immigrants from the Emerald Isle and bristles at signs like "No dogs or Irish allowed." Del struggles in his first three years in "the big league." After floundering in the infield he's finally given a chance to display his strong arm and speed in the outfield and begins to hit to all fields with remarkable power, striking fear in the hearts of enemy fielders who now wear gloves and twirlers who still don't.

His carefree manner and handsome features make Del a favorite of the Philly boosters. With uncanny luck and skill at the racetrack he sometimes rakes in more in one day than he earns for an entire season on the diamond. Men's eyes are nailed to his gorgeous and amorous young bride when Del takes her to swank hotels and restaurants. He's on top of the world, oblivious to the cruel fate that awaits him.