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Thoughts of spring
Payne Park
Sarasota, Florida
Miss Eleanor Flaherty
303 East University Street
Wooster, Ohio
March 21, 1940
Dear Ellie,
You have no idea how happy I was to find a letter waiting for me when I got back to my "barracks" after this afternoon's game. We played the Giants, I pitched, and it seemed that everything I threw up there got hit hard. Buck Leonard hit one off me that was still rising when it cleared the fence. I know Buck hits a lot of balls like that off a lot of pitchers, but that fact only comforts me a little.
One of our new outfielders, Dominic DiMaggio, probably saved me three runs when he made a beautiful running catch in deep centerfield. If you think you recognize the name, you're right; Dominic is Joe's brother. I think he's actually a better outfielder than Joe, although he doesn't hit for nearly as much power. Nevertheless, I hope he makes the team, because I need all the fast outfielders behind me I can get!
All in all, however, I'm very pleased with the way I've been throwing the ball. I think my decision to skip the football season was a good one, because I feel fresher than I think I ever have at this time of the year. Sure, I missed playing football at first, because I've been spending my autumns that way since I was twelve years old. I don't miss the aches and pains and bumps and bruises, however, and if I've increased my chances of turning into the kind of pitcher who will help the Red Sox win, it's been well worth it.
The best thing about this past winter, however, has been the chance I've had to get to know you even better, Ellie. I smiled when I read the part of your letter when you told me how much you'd been thinking about me; I can promise you I've been thinking about you every bit as much.
Are you seriously thinking about trying to find a teaching position near Boston? My heart skipped a few beats when I read that. You know I'd love to have you closer. Right now, the only time I can see you this summer is when we're playing in Cleveland, and we're only there for three series a year.
I suppose I should close this now, because I need to get my arm rubbed down from our trainer. Then, it will be time for dinner, and maybe a movie in town, before I head for bed and get ready to start the routine all over again. Please write again as soon as you can, Ellie.
Fondly,
Mike
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