Molina

June 29, 2015
More than a standard baseball memoir, this glowing tribute to Molina's father, Pai, rates as one of the most heartfelt, earnest accounts of a son assuming his father's dream of reaching the major leagues. Molina, teamed with journalist Ryan, writes with warmth and respect of the father who trained his three sons in the lessons of baseball in a barrio in a small Puerto Rican town, grooming them to become All-Star catchers in major leagues. Carrying Pai's pro ball dreams, Molina played for the Anaheim Angels, Toronto Blue Jays, and San Francisco Giants. No baseball position requires as much stamina, pain tolerance, and skill as the catcher, which all three Molina brothers played, leaving them with swollen hands and bruised limbs. Molina soldiers through the challenges of breaking through professionally to two World Championship rings and two Gold Glove Awards, after laboring in the minors and contending with a strained marriage and the financial needs of a family. In precise and thoughtful prose, Molina celebrates his famous bloodline as well as his own success, mastering the game behind home plate with skill and style for the enjoyment of the fans.

May 15, 2015

It's rare enough to make it to the Major Leagues in baseball, yet Benjamin Molina Santana saw all three of his sons reach that elusive goal, and all as catchers to boot: Bengie, who played for the Texas Rangers and later served as coach; Jose, who won the World Series with the Anaheim Angels and New York Yankees; and Yadier, longtime catcher for the St. Louis Cardinals who has also earned two championship rings. How this humble Puerto Rican father raised his sons to become baseball champions is the story told here by his eldest son. This account is less of a biography and more about the relationship between father and son. The author writes warmly of his childhood and the lessons regarding baseball and life in general that his father instilled in him and his brothers. As an adult, his relationship with his father became more complicated, but Molina discusses the issues involved with honesty and grace. Molina's obvious affection for his father, siblings, and entire family comes through on every page. VERDICT This memoir will appeal to any baseball fan as well as patrons from Puerto Rican communities.--Brett Rohlwing, Milwaukee P.L.

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