Peter C. Bjarkman Livres

Covering over fifty years of history, this encyclopedia chronicles the New York Mets, from their early struggles to their triumphant moments like the Miracle Mets of 1969. It highlights key figures, including legendary managers Casey Stengel and Gil Hodges, and iconic players such as Darryl Strawberry and Mike Piazza. The book features a detailed narrative, archival photos, and statistical data, along with a comprehensive year-by-year chronology, making it an essential resource for Mets fans seeking a deeper understanding of their beloved team.

Fidel Castro's passion for baseball significantly influenced its evolution in Cuba, shifting the sport from professional to amateur status. The narrative explores how this transformation impacted the island, which has since become a breeding ground for numerous baseball talents. Through Castro's involvement, the book highlights the cultural significance of baseball in Cuban society, paralleling its status in the United States.

This book reveals the complete truth behind the wave of Cuban baseball talent coming to MLB, placing recent events in the context of Cuban baseball history before delving into the stories of the major Cuban stars who have left the island. It shares their personal histories, explains why many chose defection, and details their harrowing journeys.