TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME

Jews may have had few representatives on the field of baseball, but here’s some enlightening information from a book by Burton A. and Benita W. Boxerman, authors of Jews and Baseball.

The couple have researched more than 150 Jewish men who played professional ball, along with sportswriters, statisticians, managers, owners and even the composer of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.”

Ballpark

In the first of two planned volumes, they cover the years 1871-1948 and show that Jewish Americans loved — and influenced — the national pastime from its very earliest days.

Q: What is the most important thing for people to know?

Burton Boxerman: Two things: Most people don’t think that there are that many Jews playing baseball. No. 2, we tell them the book isn’t just about players but also people associated with the game off the field.

There are a few surprises. One thing that shocks people is that “Take Me Out to Ball Game” was written by a Jewish songwriter (Albert Von Tilzer, born Albert Gumm).

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Published:
06.20.07 5:40
Category:
Sports