Intentional Walk

May 1, 2013

In a book that's equal parts faith and baseball, baseball writer Rains (Tony La Russa: Man on a Mission) offers an exclusive look at life inside the 2012 St. Louis Cardinals clubhouse as the team attempted to defend its 2011 World Series championship led by a rookie coach and man of faith, Mike Matheny. Each chapter begins with a Bible verse and focuses on the career and spiritual life of one or two members of the Cardinals organization who are practicing Christians, including the equipment manager, a broadcaster, and players ranging from minor league prospects to stars such as Lance Berkman and Matt Holliday. Each story offers insights into remaining faithful to God through all of life's successes and failures. Some of the recurring spiritual themes throughout are following God's will, seeing the big picture, dealing with adversity, using one's God-given abilities, and living out the Christian life in both words and actions. Overall it is an enjoyable read, despite the abundance of truisms and occasional post-game interview tone (and consequent lack of depth). VERDICT Recommended for Christian baseball enthusiasts; all Cardinals fans may enjoy the player profiles.

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