Synopsis
Davey Johnson: My Wild Ride in Baseball and Beyond, co-authored with Erik Sherman, is a vibrant and unfiltered memoir that chronicles the extraordinary life of Davey Johnson, a baseball icon whose career as both a player and manager left an indelible mark on the sport. Born into a military family as a self-described "army brat," Johnson’s early life was shaped by constant movement and the disciplined influence of his father, who instilled a respect for hierarchy that would later inform his approach to baseball. The book begins with his childhood, moving from base to base, and his early passion for the game, which led to a standout playing career as a second baseman for the Baltimore Orioles. A four-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion, Johnson was a trailblazer, using his mathematical acumen to pioneer sabermetrics in baseball, crunching numbers to optimize lineups as early as the 1960s. His playing days were marked by historic moments, such as being in the lineup when Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s home run record in 1974 and when Sadaharu Oh surpassed it in Japan, as well as hitting the last single off Sandy Koufax in 1966. Johnson also holds the single-season record for home runs by a second baseman, a testament to his prowess on the field.
The memoir transitions to Johnson’s managerial career, where his intellect and bold personality shone. Best known for leading the New York Mets to their iconic 1986 World Series victory over the Boston Red Sox, Johnson details the electrifying moments of that championship, particularly Game 6, where Mookie Wilson’s grounder through Bill Buckner’s legs became baseball lore. He reflects on his strategic decisions, including controversial calls like removing the bunt sign in the 10th inning, which initially drew criticism but ultimately contributed to the Mets’ improbable comeback. Johnson’s managerial success extended beyond the Mets, as he took the Cincinnati Reds, Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Washington Nationals to postseason contention, retiring with an impressive .588 winning percentage. Yet, the book reveals his puzzlement at being let go by multiple teams despite his success, attributing it to his independent streak and intellectual swagger, which some perceived as arrogance. His strained relationships with front-office executives, such as Mets GM Frank Cashen and Reds owner Marge Schott, are candidly explored, with Johnson setting the record straight on rumors about his personal life, including alleged drinking and infidelities, without resorting to vindictiveness.
Beyond baseball, Johnson’s memoir paints him as a true Renaissance man, delving into his diverse pursuits as a land investor, pilot, scratch golfer, scuba diving instructor, and mathematician. His love for numbers not only shaped his sabermetric innovations but also influenced his approach to life, from calculating lineups on punch cards to advising the Nationals to draft Bryce Harper. The book is deeply personal, addressing profound losses, including the death of his daughter and stepson Jake, who was visually and hearing impaired. These passages reveal a tender, devoted father beneath the tough exterior of a baseball lifer, offering a poignant contrast to the high-octane tales of his career. Johnson’s time in Japan with the Yomiuri Giants, his reflections on the 1969 World Series (where he made the final out against the Mets), and his role in moving Cal Ripken Jr. to third base with the Orioles add layers to his storied journey. His unfiltered, charismatic voice—described as “vinegary” by George F. Will—infuses the narrative with humor, wisdom, and honesty, making it a compelling read for baseball fans and those interested in a life lived boldly.
The book’s strength lies in its blend of detailed baseball history and personal reflection, avoiding the dry recounting typical of some sports memoirs. Johnson’s storytelling, enhanced by Sherman’s polished writing, captures the essence of a man who lived at the heart of baseball’s evolution, from witnessing historic home runs to managing one of the most memorable World Series in history. While some readers might wish for more focus on his personal life over season-by-season accounts, the memoir excels in its vivid portrayal of Johnson’s philosophy: asking players, “What are you willing to give up to get where you want to go?” This question, rooted in his father’s teachings, underscores his approach to both baseball and life. Published in 2018, My Wild Ride in Baseball and Beyond is a testament to Johnson’s enduring impact on the game, his resilience through personal and professional challenges, and his unapologetic individuality, making it a standout in the genre of sports autobiographies.