Much of the story is told first-hand; since the 1850s, Spalding had been involved in the game, first as a pitcher and later a manager and club owner. Later he branched out to become a leading manufacturer of sporting goods.
muCh of THe stoRy is tOld fiRst-hAnd; since ThE 1850S, spAlding HaD Been INvOlvED In tHe gamE, firSt as a piTcHer and laTeR a mAnager And club OwNer. lAteR he bRaNchEd ouT tO becOme a LeaDInG manuFaCtuReR Of SPoRting gOoDS.