John Steele Adventurer 49-08-30 019 Play Ball

Summary

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Podcast Summary: "John Steele, Adventurer – Play Ball"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Title: John Steele Adventurer 49-08-30 019 Play Ball
Date: January 25, 2026
Episode Theme:
A tale of baseball, integrity, and resilience unfolds as veteran umpire Mike Scanlon faces a career-defining controversy and an angry crowd, questioning his judgment and inner resolve. In classic old-time radio tradition, the episode dramatizes the American pastime and the pressures that come with responsibility on and off the field.

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1. Episode Overview

The episode centers on Mike Scanlon, an umpire with 18 years of experience, who must make a difficult, unpopular call during a crucial baseball game between the Gulls and the Blue Sox. As an angry crowd and heated players challenge his decision, Scanlon grapples with public scrutiny, self-doubt, and his love of the game. The story illustrates the tension between doing what’s right and facing public opinion, set against the backdrop of mid-century American baseball.

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2. Key Discussion Points and Story Arc

The Controversial Game and the Foul Ball Call

• Mike Scanlon recounts the pivotal game: Gulls vs. Blue Sox, late in the season with league standings on the line.
  • Scanlon describes the high tension: “The crowd was hollering for blood as Galatelli walked up to the plate.” (01:36)
• Nifty Galatelli, the Gulls’ outspoken player, banters and provokes—a classic energetic “bench jockey.”
• In the bottom of the ninth, Scanlon calls Galatelli’s deep hit a foul, igniting protests from the Gulls, the crowd, and fans who witnessed the play.
  • “Foul ball. What, are you getting old?” (04:34) – Galatelli
• Spectators and even some evidence (photographs) appear to contradict Scanlon's call, leading to further tension and the threat of official protest.

Personal Repercussions and Public Pressure

• At home, Mike’s wife tries to support and console him as the press and public turn critical.
  • Newspaper headlines accuse Scanlon: “Umpire Scanlon was guilty of the most flagrant misjudgment ... this blow was fair by at least three feet.” (08:40)
• Sportswriter Jimmy Powers challenges Scanlon, suggesting perhaps his reflexes or eyesight are failing and hinting maybe he needs a rest.
• Scanlon’s confidence falters as crowds jeer him at subsequent games; he avoids umpiring behind the plate and grows isolated and frustrated.

Support and Doubt: Conversations with Colleagues and Wife

• John Steele, the league official, reaches out in friendship, offering advice and a chance for Scanlon to take time off—Scanlon refuses, wanting to face the issue himself.
  • “I’m just trying to let you know that you’ve got a friend you can talk to. ... Do it your way.” – Steele (17:30)
• At a bar, a drunken confrontation with Galatelli further rattles Scanlon, leading him to the brink of resignation.
  • “I’ve taken all I can ... Hand in my resignation to Steele.” – Scanlon (22:00)

Redemption and Resolution during the Next Big Game

• Despite resolve to quit, Scanlon shows up for the next high-stakes game; heavy fog adds to the drama.
• The game comes to a critical point with Galatelli at bat again, the atmosphere thick with uncertainty and pressure.
  • Scanlon must call the game due to worsening fog, reverting the score and rendering the Gulls losers.
  • Galatelli and the crowd react with outrage: “You’re giving him the penny. We played the same fog!” (26:00)
• As Scanlon retreats under a barrage of boos, he learns the anger was actually directed at Galatelli for his conduct, not at him.
  • “They weren’t booing you … That was for good, Galatelli. ... They want to see you.” – Billy (the manager) (27:12)

Epilogue: Integrity Upheld

• Powers tells Scanlon he’ll write about the importance of integrity:
  • “A guy who has the guts to make a decision he knows will be unpopular. The kind of guy this game needs.” (27:28)
• Scanlon is reaffirmed in his role, choosing not to quit, his love for the game and sense of duty restored.

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3. Notable Quotes and Memorable Moments

• “I only call them as I see them, Roy.” (05:15) – Scanlon
  Emphasizing the umpire’s credo and the moral weight of his position.

• “Did you ever have 30,000 people booing at you? You know what it feels like?” (10:24) – Scanlon
  A moment of vulnerability, underscoring the emotional cost of leadership.

• “Why have you been mixed up in baseball for so many years? ... Because you love the game, right?” (12:25) – Jimmy Powers
  A reminder that both men, despite their differences, are driven by a shared love for the sport.

• “I’m just trying to let you know that you’ve got a friend you can talk to.” (17:30) – John Steele
  Illustrates camaraderie and compassion within the world of professional sports.

• “A guy who has the guts to make a decision he knows will be unpopular. The kind of guy this game needs.” (27:28) – Jimmy Powers
  The episode’s core message, celebrating courage and integrity over popularity.

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4. Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:17–03:43 — Introductions, scene-setting, the tense final inning.
• 04:14–06:41 — The controversial foul ball and aftermath.
• 07:49–10:24 — Scanlon and his wife process the fallout; public and media criticism mounts.
• 11:32–13:15 — Jimmy Powers confronts Scanlon about his judgment and future.
• 16:58–18:03 — Scanlon meets with league official John Steele.
• 20:00–22:07 — Barroom altercation with Galatelli; Scanlon resolves to quit.
• 22:24–27:16 — The climactic game in the fog, Scanlon’s decisive call under pressure.
• 27:16–27:55 — True nature of the crowd’s reaction clarified; Powers praises Scanlon’s integrity.

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5. Tone and Style

• The episode maintains a nostalgic, dramatic storytelling style, full of old-time radio charm, banter, period slang, and rapid dialogue.
• Sound effects and crowd scenes enhance the atmosphere, immersing listeners in the ballpark drama.

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Conclusion

“Play Ball” delivers a rich, character-driven drama about ethical judgment under pressure during the glory days of baseball. Listeners are given an inside look at both the game and the human cost of public judgment. Ultimately, the episode is a tribute to the kind of quiet heroism that keeps the great American pastime honest and enduring.

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For listeners seeking classic radio drama with timeless relevance, this episode highlights how the greatest challenges are as much about character as about the game itself.

Transcript

[Mike Scanlon]

Take one man against an angry crowd. Add a foul ball and a fog. That's the story. Play ball. Taken this week from the files of John Steele, adventurer. Hello, friends. This is John Steele. Ready for another story of adventure? I'll bet you are. Well, this week's tale is a bit different. It's the kind of yarn a real red blooded American will love. What's it about? I shouldn't tell you, but I will give you a starter. Bring along your appetite for soda pop and hot dogs. Yep. Our story is about the great American pastime, baseball. And it's about a very good friend of mine. You remember that game a few years back? The one between the. What am I doing here? My guest this week can tell you this story a lot better than I can. It happened to him. So, folks, meet Mike Scanlon. Mike. It's funny how you can get an idea in your head and nothing will change your mind. That's how it was with me anyway. I guess it all started that day out at the stadium. I'd been umpiring in the senior circuit for 18 years and it was just another game to me. But it was different for the Gulls and the Blue Sox. It was late in August and the girls were still leading the league by a game and a half. The Sox had been right on their necks and in this game they were leading three to two. In the bottom half of the night I was working balls and strikes back of the plate and first man up grounded out and the second fly deep to left field. Holmes, the utility infielder from Danville, got a pinch hit single and took second. When the Sox third baseman threw the ball away. The crowd was hollering for blood as Galatelli walked up to the plate.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay, Pappy, this here's the ball game. Just burn it in here, baby. Just whistle and fast and green haired boy. Pappy, just a muscle. It's all hit, baby.

[Mike Scanlon]

Why don't you go take your shower now, papa? The game's as good as over.

[Nifty Galatelli]

There's the game's over, Pappy. Just bring it in here, baby. We'll show them how the game's over.

[Mike Scanlon]

First pitch clean and left field stand, boy.

[Nifty Galatelli]

First ball hitting P. First ball hitting just the bush Ring into the first pitch, baby.

[Mike Scanlon]

Walk up with this ball game. Okay, Galatelli, quit your jawing and step in there. Crowd's late for supper. Now take it easy scamming. Got to give the customers their money's worth, don't I?

[Nifty Galatelli]

Big man treating the crowd. Bobby going to send him Home happy, baby.

[Mike Scanlon]

Step in, Nifty. Let's put this thing to bed.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay.

[Mike Scanlon]

Okay, Mike. Got to give the crowd a little excitement.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay, baby. Let's see that high heart.

[Mike Scanlon]

One in here, and here it comes.

[Nifty Galatelli]

But you here. Come here.

[Mike's Wife]

Come here.

[Mike Scanlon]

Come.

[Nifty Galatelli]

That's okay, baby. Got him to win. Where's that home run, big man? Where's that home run?

[Mike Scanlon]

I just want to put one where I can reach you.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Green kid says he can't reach him, Patty. Okay, baby, right down. The element of this blood right back to big man Fabian. Here it is. Here it is.

[Mike Scanlon]

You heard me, Nipsey.

[Nifty Galatelli]

He's trying to dust me.

[Mike Scanlon]

Right one, I said.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Got him singing, baby. Got the green kid singing. Give him the old floater. Back to the old floater and swing. Swing, kid, swing. That's okay, baby. Could have counted the stitches on that one. Got him to waste, Pappy.

[Mike Scanlon]

Cut him to waste. But nobody should swing. Scoff, scald.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Hey, that's the ground. Hide. It scoffed.

[Mike Scanlon]

Okay, let's get going.

[Nifty Galatelli]

I tell you, it scoffed. It's hopping.

[Mike Scanlon]

Coming up to the plate. Could be he's pitching. Keep your eye on him, Mike. He'd dust me if I wasn't so fast. Step in, Nifty.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Got him singing like a seagull, baby. Give him the big rainbow, Pappy bent the big one. Here it is. Here it is now.

[Mike Scanlon]

Crook.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Give me back in Beaumont next week, Pappy. Hello, Texas Bush.

[Mike Scanlon]

Yeah. I gotta swing in bad ones or a walk me.

[Nifty Galatelli]

What to hit himself on, baby. What's he hit himself on? Hello, you Dusty Prey.

[Mike Scanlon]

Makes one out on what, wise guy? Step in, Nifty.

[Nifty Galatelli]

What's the count, Mike?

[Mike Scanlon]

Two and two.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay, baby. We're way up in front of him in the cat seat, baby. Gotta swing at this bottom. Let's have that big bend rigging. Gotta swing. Gotta swing. Yay. Hey.

[Mike Scanlon]

Ready?

[Nifty Galatelli]

Fell in.

[Mike Scanlon]

Everyone understands for sure.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Hey, watch it. Watch it. Foul ball. Put that idea, Mike.

[Mike Scanlon]

That was tear all the way. Sorry, Billy. That was foul. But you're blind to something. Call him as I see him. Foul fan. Caught it up in section 23. Gotta be fair. Go on back to the bench, Billy. You crazy, Scanlan? Never hit one fair in my life. Go on back to the bench, all of you. Foul ball. What, are you getting old?

[Nifty Galatelli]

Hit that ball right on the lane.

[Mike Scanlon]

Went straight as a die by foul ball. I said, what's the guy gonna do? Hit straight away to centerfield to be bad? Careful, Nifty. Why?

[Nifty Galatelli]

There's a bat right on the lane. Ask Connie, he could see back to.

[Mike Scanlon]

The bench or I'll throw you all out of the game. Okay, Scanlan, but I'm not forgetting. Shut up, Nipti. Not forgetting, Nipti. Shut up, Galatelli. I don't want to throw. And even if it's a lift, you're going to step in or not? Okay, okay.

[Mike's Wife]

Literal.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay, Pepper. We got him now, baby. Green kits are rattling. Throw the bat away underhanded, baby. You can't see for the red. Just toss it up here. Toss it up. Swing. Can't swing.

[Mike Scanlon]

That's the game.

[Nifty Galatelli]

That's my baby. All baby.

[Mike Scanlon]

All. Team. Galley trilling. Yeah. Sorry. Kids all in the game. That's what you see. I only call them as I see them, Roy. You better start seeing them better. In this business, kid, you gotta take those kind of knocks. I don't gotta take nothing from you. Tomorrow, maybe you'll get a chance to be a hero. Tomorrow, maybe I'll get you. Okay, Nipsey. Take your shower. Yeah. Even if it's the last minute. I even do. Who's that? I don't know. Some crazy thing. Hey, that was fair all the way. Get out of the way.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Oh, no.

[Mike Scanlon]

You know I was up in 23. That ball was fair. Wait a minute, mister. You say you were up in 23? I'll say I was. I caught that ball. It was spared by three feet.

[Nifty Galatelli]

I got about 50 people waiting in.

[Mike Scanlon]

Their seats up there. And we're gonna sign a statement. It's just a man's word. Maybe one of those photographers got a picture. Yeah, maybe. Are you sure, mister?

[Mike's Wife]

What do you mean?

[Mike Scanlon]

I saw this. Positive. I'll have to protest the game. Mike never had a game protested on my decision in 18 years. Yeah, I know. Sorry, Mike. Sure, sure.

[Mike's Wife]

That you, Mike? Mike?

[Mike Scanlon]

That you expecting anyone else?

[Mike's Wife]

Well, if I was, I wouldn't tell you. You know, sometimes I think you're still spying on me. The way you sneak around.

[Mike Scanlon]

When a man's married to the prettiest gal in the state, he's got to expect to do some spying.

[Mike's Wife]

You're just saying that cuz it credits you. You're going to be an awful shock to your pride someday when you take off those rose colored classes. Yes, Now I got too many things to do to stand here lobby gobbing with you all day. Okay, the paper's on your chair and it'll be ready about 15 minutes.

[Mike Scanlon]

Okay.

[Mike's Wife]

Have a hard day, didn't you? Listen, I always do. You know that Fox needed that game today.

[Mike Scanlon]

Yeah.

[Mike's Wife]

No, I think George McCray's the best sports announcer in the business. Well, must have been a very exciting one in the 7m gallant. Till he tied that score. Bill, are you listening to me? My gambling. Sure, dear, but you certainly don't sound it to me.

[Mike Scanlon]

No, I'm listening, honey.

[Mike's Wife]

Kind of a boy is Nisty Galatelli. Fresh kid at all?

[Mike Scanlon]

Well, no.

[Mike's Wife]

For his second year in the majors, he's doing all right. Yeah, he's the spark plug of the girls.

[Mike Scanlon]

Got the temper to go with it too.

[Mike's Wife]

He'll learn. Maybe girls wouldn't be in first place.

[Mike Scanlon]

Do we have to talk about this all night?

[Mike's Wife]

No, no, of course not.

[Mike Scanlon]

What did McRae say about the ninth inning?

[Mike's Wife]

Yeah, he said it looked fair to him.

[Mike Scanlon]

Oh, he did, did he? When's he gonna learn? A sports announcer's supposed to report the facts, not give opinions.

[Mike's Wife]

He's entitled to one.

[Mike Scanlon]

He's not entitled to prejudice a million radio listeners.

[Mike's Wife]

Hell, we're having corned beef and cabbage tonight.

[Mike Scanlon]

Good.

[Mike's Wife]

Your favorite dish, and all you can say is good.

[Mike Scanlon]

I'm sorry.

[Mike's Wife]

Made it special for you.

[Mike Scanlon]

I said I was sorry.

[Mike's Wife]

I understand.

[Mike Scanlon]

Do you?

[Mike's Wife]

Of course I do.

[Mike Scanlon]

Why, that dirty. No.

[Mike's Wife]

What's the matter now?

[Mike Scanlon]

Well, listen to this. In the Daily News, umpire Scanlon was guilty of the most flagrant misjudgment when he called Galatelli's blast in the ninth inning foul. Our staff photographer's picture clearly substantiates the opinion shared by some 30,000 fans that this blow was fair by at least three feet. There comes a time in the life of an umpire when he has out served his usefulness to the game and is no longer capable. Who's he think he is?

[Mike's Wife]

Jimmy Powers?

[Mike Scanlon]

If I'm going down there first thing in the morning and tell him off, anyone can call him when they got all the evidence in front of him.

[Mike's Wife]

He's just doing his job.

[Mike Scanlon]

His job to hold people up to public ridicule?

[Mike's Wife]

No, his job is to stir up interest in the local team.

[Mike Scanlon]

I'll beat down his door and show.

[Mike's Wife]

Him what's even more important than making a big scene.

[Mike Scanlon]

What?

[Mike's Wife]

What's it mean to you?

[Mike Scanlon]

What do you mean?

[Mike's Wife]

Will they protest?

[Mike Scanlon]

Yeah. Billy will have to protest to keep the fans happy.

[Mike's Wife]

Oh, kind of token.

[Mike Scanlon]

Yeah.

[Mike's Wife]

Well, what'll the president of the league do?

[Mike Scanlon]

Support me, I guess. You sure? That's not the point. Sure he'll support me. Can't change an umpire's decision once it's been made, even with photographic evidence. Billy knows that. Well, it's the Principle of the thing.

[Mike's Wife]

Of course.

[Mike Scanlon]

Been in the game for 18 years.

[Mike's Wife]

I know.

[Mike Scanlon]

What's the use? Fabia stood at that man.

[Mike's Wife]

Good.

[Mike Scanlon]

What? This life. Living in hotel rooms six months out of the year, knocking around from town to town.

[Mike's Wife]

Yeah. You love the game, don't you?

[Mike Scanlon]

Of course I do. Wouldn't be in if I didn't.

[Mike's Wife]

Well, that's enough for me.

[Mike Scanlon]

Supposing I'm. I am all washed up.

[Mike's Wife]

You stop that kind of talk.

[Mike Scanlon]

My. I seen it happen.

[Mike's Wife]

What?

[Mike Scanlon]

Guy loses his nerve or something?

[Mike's Wife]

Stop it this minute.

[Mike Scanlon]

Did you ever have 30,000 people pooing at you? You know what it feels like. Well, do you? How'd you know? Hello, Mike. What can I do for you? I read your column last night, Powers. Well, I didn't like it. No? No. Well, I'm sorry if you took offense. Yeah. Beth, I mean it. There was nothing personal about that column. Nothing personal? Who do you think you are, wise guy? Now, take it easy. Make me look like a jerk to the public. Spend 18 years in the game and some joker with a typewriter. Start. I don't care. Mike. Mike. That's better. Just cool off for a minute, okay? Mike, why have you been mixed up in baseball for so many years? What are you trying to do? Because you love the game, right? Go on. What do you think? I've been banging away on this typewriter for 20 years. So you can for the same reason. Only I'm not as lucky as you are, huh? You're right down on the field in the middle of it. I never been that good. I gotta sit up in the press box. Yeah. But I think maybe I can do as much good for the game up there as you can. Right down on the field. What do you mean? Only one thing interests me, Mike. Keep the game clean. Yeah. I would have done just as much squawking if the decision had gone against the socks. Oh, now, there isn't much more a sports writer can do except report the facts and beef like crazy when he sees an injustice done. Yeah, I guess you're right. I don't like to say that, Mike, but maybe you need a rest, huh? I don't know. A guy reaches a point, I guess, when his reflexes aren't as quick or his eyes aren't as sharp. I don't know. I see what you mean. I'm sorry. I. Well, thanks, Mr. Powers. Hello, Billy. Mike. You out of your head? You know you're not supposed to come on the field through the dugout. I know where you been. We'll been looking all over for you. I like getting here. Hurry up. Chalk and Scotty been waiting at the plate for five minutes. Yeah. Hey, what's the matter you. You look sick. Nothing. You sure? Yeah. Well, get going. Yeah. Come on, Martin. I'll walk out with you. Okay. Stupid fans. Like a pack of sheep. And I giving you the business. Mike.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Hey, where you been?

[Mike Scanlon]

We've been standing. Where's your back? Order.

[Nifty Galatelli]

You don't have to get happy.

[Mike Scanlon]

Have a bad night. Let's have the order. Okay. Okay, here it is. Same as yesterday, Martin. Yeah. Gentleman's been Doctor on the 7th.

[Mike's Wife]

Only change.

[Mike Scanlon]

You both know the ground rules. Just remember, any fallout in the ivy is the ground rule double now. Left you to watch that spitball, Pepper.

[Nifty Galatelli]

What do you mean?

[Mike Scanlon]

Tell him if he wants to wipe the sweat off his arm, do it on his uniform, not on his pitching hand.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Gonna be rough today.

[Mike Scanlon]

And why don't you tell those bench jockeys to keep those towels in the dog alone. They'll be using them in the shower. Okay, let's go. Can't stand around all day.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay, Red baby, loosen up that old wing.

[Mike Scanlon]

Hasn't he been warming up for 20 minutes? Hey, you got the jitters or something? Come on.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Burn in here, redhead. When you got your stuff today, how.

[Mike Scanlon]

Many warm up pitchers does he need? Get off my back, will ya?

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay, kid, now bend one of those big ones in here, baby.

[Mike Scanlon]

Let's get going, Martin. Okay. Okay, he's ready. Well, we're waiting on you. Scamming. Yeah, I strapped. Yeah, the strap on my mask is loose. I gotta tighten that. Well, come on, scan. You're going to say play baller, ain't you? Yeah, I got to. Got to fix my. Fix my chest protector. You sick or something? No, I. I'm okay. I'm okay. Well, you going to say it or ain't you? Yeah, I'm going to say it. You're going to say it? I'm going to. I'm going to say it. Going to say. I got through the first inning and then told him I wasn't feeling so good. Scotty came in and took over. Balls and strikes and I went down to first base. I was lucky and didn't have any close ones to call all afternoon. News. Something like that gets around the league pretty fast. And I had a rough time of it for the next few weeks. No matter what park I worked, the fans rode me and I had the feeling the players were all laughing at me. I kept telling Scotty and Jock I wasn't feeling Good. So I didn't have to work behind the plate. But I knew I couldn't keep it up. We were on our last swing through the west, and when we got to Chicago, where the league offices are, John Steele sent for me. Haven't seen you for a long time, Mike. No. Well, don't stand there. Sit down. Have a cigar. Thanks. Nice humidor. Managers gave it to me for Christmas last year. Being errand boy for the president of the league has its advantages. Light? Yeah. Thanks. Pretty good season so far. Yeah. Only club behind last year's attendance figures is the Leafs. Is that so? Yeah. And they're only under by 5,000. Oh. What's all this I've been hearing? Huh? About you. I don't know what you been hearing. How long have we known each other, Mike? Ten years, I guess. Been pretty good friends, haven't we? Yeah. If you've got anything on your mind, can tell me. Yeah, I know that, John. Well, go ahead, spill it. Don't know if there's anything to spill. I heard you hadn't been feeling so well. Nothing serious? Serious enough to make the boss ask me to have a talk with him. Oh. Need a rest? No. We can always bring up one of the. No. Need a rest, I said. Okay. Get over this. By myself? Just thought I'd ask. We've been around this business for a long time. Yeah. Seen a lot of men come and go. What are you trying to say? I'm just trying to let you know that you've got a friend you can talk to. Why don't you stop prying if you're such a good friend? I want to help you, Mike. Don't need any help of that kind. I think you do. I'm sorry, John. I guess I'm sort of jumpy. I know. I don't know what's the matter with me. Does it go back to that foul ball? Yeah, I guess so. The president supported you when Billy protested. I know. Well, didn't that help? That's not the point. No. I guess it isn't something I gotta straighten out alone. Okay, Mike. Do it your way. Thanks, John. I'm gonna be in New York over the 26th. The Gulls and the Sox will be playing three games while I'm in town. Mm. You'll be working that series, won't you? Yeah. I want to see you back at the plate in one of those games. You'll see me. Maybe we can have another talk then. Yeah, maybe.

[Mike's Wife]

You like the picture, Mike?

[Mike Scanlon]

Uh huh.

[Mike's Wife]

Oh, I thought Jimmy Stewart was wonderful. Yeah, Good baseball scenes, too. Mike, you listening?

[Mike Scanlon]

Yeah, honey. A good baseball stage.

[Mike's Wife]

Oh, that Papa Jimmy Stewart was running with his bad legs and everything. I could just feel the pain. Couldn't you, Mike? Oh, now you just stop thinking about tomorrow, Mike. Skinn thought the movie'd take your mind off things.

[Mike Scanlon]

It did, honey.

[Mike's Wife]

It's just another ball game.

[Mike Scanlon]

Yeah, I know.

[Mike's Wife]

You've done it a hundred times before and you'll do it tomorrow.

[Mike Scanlon]

Wish Steel wasn't gonna be there.

[Mike's Wife]

What difference does that make?

[Mike Scanlon]

I don't know.

[Mike's Wife]

He's a friend of yours.

[Mike Scanlon]

It's like everyone was sitting in on a wake.

[Mike's Wife]

Oh, that's all in your mind.

[Mike Scanlon]

If the Series wasn't all tied up, it wouldn't be such an important game.

[Mike's Wife]

You've umpired a lot. Big once. Remember the third game of the 41 World Series.

[Mike Scanlon]

If I'd gone back on the plate in the first one of those two games, it had been all over.

[Mike's Wife]

Now, you stop thinking like that, Mike.

[Mike Scanlon]

Guess I better.

[Mike's Wife]

Well, you want to stop in for a malt?

[Mike Scanlon]

Feel more like a drink.

[Mike's Wife]

A malt will be better for you. It'll make you sleep.

[Mike Scanlon]

This bar is air conditioned. Just stop in for one.

[Mike's Wife]

I still think you ought to have a note.

[Mike Scanlon]

Right over here, honey. Beefs. Whiskey and soda. Don't mix it.

[Mike's Wife]

Ginger ale, please.

[Mike Scanlon]

Crispy and ginger, right. Better in here, huh?

[Mike's Wife]

It's cooler, if that's what you mean.

[Mike Scanlon]

Now, honey.

[Mike's Wife]

I'm sorry, Mike. I never have liked places like this.

[Mike Scanlon]

We won't stay long. I just felt like a drink, that's all.

[Mike's Wife]

Oh, who's making all that noise?

[Mike Scanlon]

I don't know. Some guy with a little too much to drink. The old fugitive from the eye doctor. Just talking about you.

[Mike's Wife]

Just tell my buddy you've been drinking, young man.

[Mike Scanlon]

Oh, little lady says I've been drink. Well, well. So you had company. Scanlon, you going to introduce me?

[Mike's Wife]

You know this person? Mike?

[Mike Scanlon]

This is Nifty Galatelli, honey. My wife. Oh, so this is a little woman. Scanning. Hey, what's the matter, Mrs. S? You run out of carrots over at your house? You better go on. Oh, plenty of time, plenty of time. Sleep all day tomorrow. It's a night game tomorrow. Night game. Billy bench you for a week if he knew this. What do you mean, bench me? You're the one ought to be benched. Can see better than you can right now. Go on home, Galatelli. What's the matter? Scanlan can tell Billy, huh? And tell Billy his star ought to be benched. Billy can run his team by himself.

[Mike's Wife]

Let's get out of here, Mike.

[Mike Scanlon]

Oh, don't run off, miss. Don't run off a doctory old man. Want to find out how he's gonna call him tomorrow? Shut up, Galatelli. Yeah, I'll find out if he's dumb as he is blind. How dumb are you, scanner? I'm warning you, nephew, because if you're smart, you're gonna call him the right way tomorrow night, see? Gonna call him the way old Nifty sees him. Okay, Nefty.

[Nifty Galatelli]

You got him on your head.

[Mike Scanlon]

You want me rump my arm, you call him right.

[Mike's Wife]

Lift his arms.

[Mike Scanlon]

Call him. Lift his way. Secret. Okay, Let you go. Don't forget what I told you, G. Kelly. I could have you thrown on a.

[Mike's Wife]

Come on, Mike, we're going home.

[Mike Scanlon]

See you tomorrow night.

[Mike's Wife]

Come on, Mike.

[Mike Scanlon]

Yeah, yeah. Here's for the drinks.

[Mike's Wife]

Oh, you ought to know better.

[Mike Scanlon]

Now, don't start that starting a fight in the coming out, mate.

[Mike's Wife]

Full grown man. What do you think you are, high school boy?

[Mike Scanlon]

Shut up.

[Mike's Wife]

You hurt your arm.

[Mike Scanlon]

It's okay.

[Mike's Wife]

Well, I'll rub it with liniment when we get home.

[Mike Scanlon]

It's okay, I tell you. That does it. What? That does it.

[Mike's Wife]

What do you mean?

[Mike Scanlon]

I've taken all I can.

[Mike's Wife]

And what are you going to do about it?

[Mike Scanlon]

Hand in my resignation to stealing.

[Mike's Wife]

You wouldn't.

[Mike Scanlon]

I'm fed up, I tell you.

[Mike's Wife]

Oh, you wouldn't do that, Mike.

[Mike Scanlon]

I can't take any more.

[Mike's Wife]

All right, Mike, if that's the way you want it. Never thought you'd quit.

[Mike Scanlon]

By the time I got to the stadium the next night, the newspapers had the story. Newsboys were all around the field shouting the headlines, Scanlan to quit. I ran from the cabin to the entrance mark players and officials. The game was late getting started because a mist was blowing in off the bay and visibility in the outfield was tough with the light shining through the haze. We couldn't wait too long because the Sox had to catch a train for Boston and the time limit had been put on the game. We got underway about a half hour late, with me back on the plate. The stocks were leading four to three with the seventh inning coming up, and I was beginning to breathe a little easier because there hadn't been any close ones to call. But by the time we got to the last half of the ninth, we were past the time limit, and everyone knew this was the last inning. There were runners on second and third with one out and a hit would win the ball game for the gulls. The place was in an uproar as Galatelli stepped up to the banner.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay, baby. Just hang it in there, baby. Two more and we got out.

[Mike Scanlon]

You're pitching arms, Scanmon. Step in, Nepty.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Hey, here comes that fog again, Mike.

[Mike Scanlon]

Yeah, I know. Come on, let's put this thing to bed while we can still see.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay? That's a tough outfield to play right now.

[Mike Scanlon]

Let's go, Gewat. Pepper, call again.

[Nifty Galatelli]

We can beat you a club in a dawn with your john. Okay, Pappy, Okay. But you hadn't had a hit all night. Let's hear that hard rock, baby. That flowers pepsin, Pappy. How would you know? That's okay, baby. Got him to wait for the green boy here.

[Mike Scanlon]

Ain't big Eight to put one over the plate.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Tough guy of a sky with that pod, Mike.

[Mike Scanlon]

I know, I know. Keep moving, Pepper singing, will you? This game's going on, innit? Shut up, Nifty. You stand here talking, that fog will really close in.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay, baby, let's keep this kid out of the air. Right down here, this V. Let's see that fast dropper. And here. That's Nifty swinging.

[Mike Scanlon]

That's the baby.

[Nifty Galatelli]

What a rebel.

[Mike Scanlon]

Loosen in my arms. It's all gotta swing at them bad ones. Give the crowd a thrill.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Treating the crowd again, Pappy. Gotta trade them Blake to the second out.

[Mike Scanlon]

Now, if you wanna finish the game, you better stop gassing and play ball. Don't worry, Mike. We know we're gonna finish the game, don't we? Step in, Nifty.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay, baby. The green kid wants to finish the game. Keep him on the ground, baby. Throw him that big double playbowl. We all go home to bed. And it's now, kid. Now hold too. Almost hit him, baby. Kid, almost.

[Mike Scanlon]

But it was so high, even Scanlan could see it.

[Nifty Galatelli]

What's getting worse, Mike?

[Mike Scanlon]

Keep moving and hardly see.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Sway and start a failure. Shut up, will you?

[Mike Scanlon]

Pep him. We're gonna finish this one.

[Nifty Galatelli]

You guys peeling with a clean sky.

[Mike Scanlon]

Shut up, Bothie and playboy.

[Nifty Galatelli]

What you count, Mike?

[Mike Scanlon]

Two and one.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay, Peppy, One picture. We wrap her up here. Just bend her past the bush of Baby. Wind her right around his belt. And it's now get. Now hold back.

[Mike Scanlon]

Psych. 2. Can't get it, Pepper. Okay, Mike, got a piece of.

[Mike's Wife]

Shut up.

[Mike Scanlon]

Trying to give you your earning, Galatelli. You're holding us up.

[Nifty Galatelli]

If he hits it up in the air, Outfield won't even see it. Sing him a blues, Pepper. You gotta call Time, Mike. Maybe it'll blow away.

[Mike Scanlon]

We're over time already.

[Nifty Galatelli]

What am I supposed to do, Boot the game to catch a train?

[Mike Scanlon]

Okay, okay, Turn off now.

[Nifty Galatelli]

What are you trying to do, give him the game?

[Mike Scanlon]

You know that's a tough sky.

[Nifty Galatelli]

What's the matter, Mike?

[Mike Scanlon]

Why you calling time this? Too thick, Billy? Easy fly ball could win this one. Yeah, I know. Talk him down, Billy. He's trying to. You know he's trying to.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Shut up, I said.

[Mike Scanlon]

See any brick? No.

[Nifty Galatelli]

You can't even see the wall now.

[Mike Scanlon]

Better get going. Try to get it in for you, Billy. I know. And quit your join. Nifty. Step in.

[Nifty Galatelli]

What's it called?

[Mike Scanlon]

Two and two.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Okay, Pappy. The Green kid will be looking. Just float that big rainbow right over, baby. Just let him see the floater.

[Mike Scanlon]

And swing.

[Nifty Galatelli]

Push your swing. Hey, you gotta calm time, Mike. That sky's not gonna break.

[Mike Scanlon]

He's just singing skin. That sky ain't that bad.

[Nifty Galatelli]

What'll it be?

[Mike's Wife]

Fight.

[Mike Scanlon]

Game'S called. Oh, you crazy, Scanlan. Any butcher could play that sky. Sorry. And if that fog's too thick, score reverts to the eighth inning.

[Nifty Galatelli]

You're giving him the penny. We played the same fog.

[Mike Scanlon]

Wasn't this bad in your half. I tried to get it in. Yeah, that's what you'd say. You got this coming to you, Daddy.

[Nifty Galatelli]

You hit? You can't hit an umpire.

[Mike Scanlon]

Amos Crawl. You had it in for me all season.

[Nifty Galatelli]

You crazy K, you.

[Mike Scanlon]

Scandal Taken Apollo. Game's over. Fake Apollo scan. I walked off the field with the booze ringing in my ears. Didn't look to either side. Just straight ahead and kept walking. I could still hear him booing even when I got under the stands. Never knew the walk to the locker room took so long. When I got there, I slammed the door and it was quiet at last. Just sat there thinking. Mark, open up. Go away, Billy. Let me. I gotta talk to you. Leave me alone. Will you just let me talk to you a minute? Yeah. You gotta see this, Mike. Don't you know how I. Yeah, I know, but you gotta see this. Come on. Let go of my arm. You're coming with me. I've had enough for one night. Move it. What are you crazy? I don't want to go up on the. Just come up to the dugout. You don't have to go out on the field. Sorry about the game. Only decision you could make. I know that. So's everyone else in this defense, huh?

[Nifty Galatelli]

That's what I mean.

[Mike Scanlon]

Fans refused to leave the stands. Yeah, but the boos. They weren't booing you. Well, how do you. That was for good, Galatelli. After you left, they kept booing till he was off the field. Now they're just sitting up there yelling. Are you sure? They're sure? I'm sure. Ain't never seen anything like it in my life. I want you to read my column tomorrow, Mike. It's gonna be about a guy who has the guts to make a decision he knows will be unpopular. The kind of guy this game needs. Thanks, Mr. Powers. Now, you going to quit? No. Go on out there. They want to see you. Yeah. The title, Play Ball. A story about a man of decision. Told you tonight by my good friend Mike Scanlon, who knows now that the fans in the stands are part of what makes baseball the great American pastime. Yeah. Mike learned that people can make a person great. Well, if you like this story, why not visit with me next week? Because I have a man I'm sure you'd like to meet. He had an unusual adventure with a Czech, a blackmailer and a beautiful girl. I like to call it Checkmates. So until next week, this is John Steele saying a life of adventure is yours for the taking wherever you find it. Only don't look for it. Well, good night and good hunting. John Steele, adventurer is produced by Robert Monroe. Written and directed by Elliot Drake. And tonight's cast were Charlie Holmes, Grace Keddie, Ross Marsh Martin, Joe Hugginson and Al Patterson. Don Douglas is heard as John Steele. And Jimmy Powers was played by Jimmy Powers. The orchestra was conducted by Sylvan Levin. Remember, next week, Mutual presents Checkmates. Another story of suspense in action. From the files of John Steele, adventurer. Ted Nelly speaking. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.