I thought this was an interesting scorecard since it's from Opening Day 1946. With hundreds of players/servicemen returning to the diamonds after the conclusion of World War II, I can only imagine the thunderous ovations that must have taken place during these first opening days after the war. This particular scorecard features the hometown Cardinals hosting the Pirates and is notable for the major league debuts of HOFer Ralph Kiner (single in his first at bat) and Cardinal first baseman Dick (son of George) Sisler, who bashed a two-run double in his first AB but was promptly picked off second. Can't help but think about all those prime years lost to the war. Enos Slaughter, for example, was MVP runner-up in 1942, then lost three years to military service, only to return and lead the league in RBI's, not to mention the Mad Dash that won the World Series. So many others with lost years too. Heroes - one and all.
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