Brain Ball
Competing styles
The way baseball was played in North America changed around the time of the Asahis tour to Japan. The "inside game" of strategy and tactics made famous by Ty Cobb shifted to a more physical playing style of powerful hitters like Babe Ruth. Crowds were thrilled to see "sluggers" bat home runs out of the ballparks.
Roy Yamamura fielding, Fife player sliding into third base, Powell Grounds, ca. 1939. Courtesy of Reggie Yasui.
