The Greatest Summer in Baseball History: How the '73 Season Changed Us Forever

A rousing chronicle of one of the most defining years in baseball history that changed the sport forever.
     
In 1973, baseball was in crisis. The first strike in pro sports had soured fans, American League attendance had fallen, and America's team—the Yankees—had lost more games and money than ever. Yet that season, five of the game's greatest figures rescued the national pastime.

• Hank Aaron riveted the nation with his pursuit of Babe Ruth's landmark home run record in the face of racist threats.
• George Steinbrenner purchased the Yankees at a bargain basement price and began buying back their faded glory.
• The American League broke ranks with the National League and introduced the designated hitter, extending the careers of aging stars such as Orlando Cepeda.
• An elderly and ailing Willie Mays—the icon of an earlier generation—nearly helped the Mets pull off a miracle with the final hit of his career.
• Reggie Jackson, the MVP of a tense World Series, became the prototype of the modern superstar.

The season itself provided plenty of drama served up by a colorful cast of characters, including the Mets rise from last place to win the division under Yogi Berra's leadership, Pete Rose edging out Willie Stargell as the MVP in a controversial vote, Hank Aaron chasing Babe Ruth's landmark record in the face of racial threats, Reggie Jackson solidifying his reputation as Mr. October, Willie Mays hitting the final home run of his career, and future Hall of Famers Dave Winfield and George Brett playing in their first major league games.

That one memorable summer changed baseball forever.