[GeoPoto]

In the comedian's story, Carl Erskine has been having a difficult time throwing strikes. Someone scratches a single. Two men walk. Now with nobody out and bases loaded, that paradigm of constancy, the archetypal Dodger fan rises in Ebbets field. "Come on, Oiskine," he bellows. "These guys stink."

A curve breaks low.

"Don't worry," the fan shouts. "I'm witcha."

A curve is wide.

"Hang in there," calls the fan. "You can do it, Oisk."

A fast ball sails high. Ball three.

"Go get 'em," the fan shouts. "We love ya, Oisk, baby."

A final fast ball is inside. The batter walks, forcing in a run. "Hey, Dressen," screams the constant fan, "take that bum out."

The Boys of Summer by Roger Kahn.