The Emerald Diamond

Rosen (Bullpen Diaries: Mariano Rivera, Bronx Dreams, Pinstripe Legends, and the Future of the New York Yankees) creates a narrative time line of baseball as it was shaped by Irish American players, coaches, and team owners. Readers will learn of Lizzie Murphy, the first female to participate in a major league game; Nixey Callahan, who threw the first American League no-hitter; Mike O'Neill, responsible for the first pinch hit grand slam; and many others. Much information is presented in bulleted format, making for quick, easy reading. Rosen highlights many substantial contributions of Irish Americans, such as the introduction of shin protectors for catchers and batting helmets for all players. Some of the most entertaining bits are less momentous but equally fascinating: the use of pocket-size brooms for umpires or a player being struck by lightning during a game. Filled with fun snippets of baseball lore, this will appeal to avid baseball fans.—M.M.