Posted By:
Jodi BirkholmFrank,
Sorry, I went back and reread your post after being informed that I misunderstood your point.
Yes, you are entirely correct--those cassettes/CDs that came out a few years ago are incredible! You put it better that I ever could, so there's no need to add more to the intent of your statement. I had Larry sign my first edition of the book, as well as the cassette edition and booklet from the newer audio release. I wish I owned that original record, but I would never shell out for it. To me, the greater value of those recordings lies in the newer release. In this case, for me, it's the information that matters and is collectible, not the rarity of the vinyl. My only wish is that the interview with London, Ontario native George "Mooney" Gibson had been included. It would have been a treat to hear the voice of my hometown's most gifted ballplayer.
One day, I would love to do an audio release of the players I conducted interviews with. There are about 120 90 minute tapes in all--everyone from Red Hoff, who debuted in 1911, to Johnny Klippstein, who pitched his last game in '68. Only 4 or 5 are still with us now.