R E V I EWS The Greats of the Game have spoken . . .
“Ron’s work is emblematic of the love for the game that resonates throughout so many parts of the world.”
“A wonderful pictorial journey through the last four decades of America’s great game through the magical lens of Ron Modra.”
MBL Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig
Paul Molitor, MLB Hall of Famer
“From the ease of spring training to the tension of the World Series, from a kid in the stands to Ken Griffey, Jr. somehow climbing the fence to pull one out of the stands, Ron Modra captures it with a keen and appreciative eye.” Bob Costas, award-winning broadcaster
“Ron’s photography has captured the very essence of why we love our National Pastime. Great images that tell a story and at the same time preserves the legacy of our game.” Don Mattingly, 1985 American League MVP
“I've known Ron for over 30 years now and his photographs have always been very unique. Plus his passion for photography is second to none.” Kent Hrbek, Minnesota Twins All-Star first baseman
“I’ve seen Ron’s work since I was a rookie in 1973. He has an incredible eye for the great shots and is a true professional.” Robin Yount, Milwaukee Brewers Hall of Famer
“True fans of the game will love this comprehensive collection of photos and essays. What a great trip through baseball’s last forty years.” Kirk Gibson, 1988 National League MVP and Arizona Diamondbacks manager
“Like an all-star hitter, Ron Modra exhibits a keen eye for our great game. This delightful collection of photographs is enhanced by reflective essays from some of the most respected baseball writers of this generation. For fans of all ages, A Baseball Life provides an engaging reflection on four decades of the game.” Mike Dodd, USA Today sportswriter
“Ron Modra’s photography has always been breathtaking, but this is something different ... something special. Easily the most beautiful baseball compilation of my lifetime, A Baseball Life is a blissful trip through the game’s timeline.” Jeff Pearlman, si.com columnist and best-selling author
“To do anything well you need to love it. Ron has proven that, and more. His love, and knowledge of the game of baseball is evident in this book. His insightful photography captures the spirit, and the joy of the game.” Walter Ioos, longtime Sports Illustrated photographer
“This book is a gift to baseball, beautifully wrapped by one of sports’ finest photographers.” Rick Reilly, ESPN.com columnist and television contributor/essayist
“I really enjoyed looking at the photos from all the different years. These are some of the best photos I've ever seen. The picture of Nettles, among others, was off the charts!” Rich “Goose” Gossage, MLB Hall of Famer
“Ron Modra has been one of the top photographers in the industry, with a very creative mind and eye.” Nolan Ryan, MLB Hall of Famer
“Looking at this book has helped me hold onto memories that sometimes get lost. These memories were brought back through the eyes of Ron Modra.”
“When I saw this book, it brought back so many memories of my playing days – the guys I played with and against, the stadiums, Ozzie Smith, MLB Hall of Famer and all of the excitement that goes on during the season. Thanks to Ron Modra “This is the most unique baseball book I’ve for letting me relive my career.” George Brett, MLB Hall of Famer seen –– great photographs; great stories.” “This is one of the finest collections of baseball photographs I have had the pleasure to see.” Ahmad Rashad, NFL Wide Receiver and Sports Broadcaster
Tom Glavine, MLB All-Star
“When they say a picture is worth a thousands words, they must be talking about Ron Modra. This reflection of his work speaks volumes.” Bob Uecker, MLB All-Star and Broadcaster
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I NT RODUC T ION by Bob Costas
There have probably been more words written and spoken about the beauty and appeal of baseball than about all other sports combined. Hey, I’ve written and spoken some of those words myself. And yet, when it comes to conveying the hold the game can have on our imaginations, almost all of those words fall short of the power of a truly striking visual image. For over 40 years now, Ron Modra has captured those images with rare skill and understanding. Baseball is a game of atmosphere and anticipation, punctuated by moments of brilliance and excitement. Like the game itself, Ron Modra’s work has texture. From the ease of spring training to the tension of the World Series, from a kid in the stands to Ken Griffey, Jr. somehow climbing the fence to pull one out of the stands, Ron Modra captures it with a keen and appreciative eye. The pages that follow are pure pleasure – the best work of a master craftsman and a guy who is one of us – a baseball fan.
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Whitey Ford, Mickey Mantle
7
80
George Foster, Dave Parker, Cecil Cooper, Jimmy Wynn
Jim Kern, Lou Brock, Ted Simmons
81
Ozzie Smith
99
108
Dodger Spring Training, Bo Jackson, Omar Vizquel
Gaylord Perry, Keith Hernandez, Dale Murphy
109
Cal Ripken, Jr.
111
Dan Quisenberry
115
Orel Hershiser
121
Wade Boggs
151
Mariano Rivera
183
184
Orlando “El Duque” Hernandez
Mariano Rivera, Family & Friends
185
Doc Gooden
201
252
Jean Segura, Hanley Ramirez, Jimmy Rollins
Matt Holliday, Jason Heyward
253
David Wright
279
Wade Boggs, Ted Williams, Don Mattingly
285
287