Discover the captivating tale of Mountain Joe, a baseball phenom whose extraordinary talent and unwavering determination propelled him to legendary status. This inspiring poem chronicles his journey from a small-town dreamer to a baseball sensation, captivating readers with its vivid imagery and emotional depth.
Mountain Joe
Once upon a different time, many years ago,
lived a ballplayer, who was called Mountain Joe.
Baseball was his passion and he held a special dream –
to play the game he loved, for a major-league team.
He possessed broad shoulders, stood 6-foot 4,
and could smack homeruns that would soar.
He pitched fiercely with a rocket for an arm,
and could run down rabbits, back on the farm.
Men admired him, women loved his good looks,
kids often begged him, to autograph their books.
A hero to many and the toast of the town,
treated like a cherished king, without the crown.
Playing in the city league, he stood above the rest,
and everyone agreed, “Mountain Joe was the best!”
Whether he was pitching or standing at the plate,
opposing players trembled; Joe controlled their fate.
He led the Giants to the championship game,
against cross-town rivals – the Eagles was their name.
As the game approached, word spread all about,
for sitting in the stands that day was a major-league scout!
Stores closed early, the stadium filled fast,
thousands came to watch the game, the seasons last.
The aroma of popcorn and hot dogs filled the air,
and rumor had it all the townsfolk were there.
The anthem was sung, Joe strolled to the mound,
and the ballpark thundered with a deafening sound.
Applause erupted and hearts filled with pride,
as Mountain Joe promptly struck out the side.
Bell and Gus flew out before Joe’s turn to bat;
Joe smashed a double to right and tipped his hat.
There he stayed, unable to advance.
Brown struck out, so back to the mound Joe pranced.
Both teams battled on this unforgettable day.
The Eagles hung tough; they had come to play.
Joe had 14 strikeouts and batted 4 for 4,
but in the bottom of the ninth, still no score.
Knowing only one run was all they needed,
Joe walked to the plate, as the children pleaded,
“You can do it, Mountain Joe, don’t be outdone,
show those Eagles a long homerun!”
Joe tightened his grip and spit out his chaw,
and glared at the pitcher with a stiffened jaw.
Determined not to fail or to be outclassed,
Joe swung at the ball and there was a blast.
Where the ball landed, nobody knows,
everyone agreed it was a powerful blow.
The umpire spoke up, ending the suspense,
and announced to the crowd, “Over the fence!”
With the ump’s declaration Joe circled the bases.
Except for the Eagles, elation was on all faces.
Joe was mobbed at home plate, fans cheered his name,
and that is the story, how Mountain Joe won the game.
After the game, the scout found Mountain Joe
and admitted to him, “You are the best I know!”
“It was a treat to watch you, but I won’t be back.
It’s a darn shame, kid, that you were born black.”
David Ritter
Memories for Keeps includes captivating poems like “Gone Fishing,” “One Day to Live,” “The Fork in the Road,” and “Lost at Sea.” Dive into the pages and let your heart wander! Available for download or print on Amazon.
For additional poetry collections and products, you can contact me directly at rittersrhymeandreason@gmail.com or visit the stores listed below. Memorial picture frames and books can also be found at my Etsy Store!!! CLICK HERE
- Faith Christian Stores
- Address: 4463 Miller Rd, Flint, MI 48507
- Phone: (810) 516-0706
- Amazin’ Mitten
- Address: 646 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734
- Phone: (989) 262-8010
- ONLINE SHOP NOW OPEN!!! CLICK HERE
MEMORIES FOR KEEPS
A collection of poetry that reveals one man’s feelings about the world around him. With spirituality the centerpiece of most of his writings, the author touches the hearts and minds of readers with hope, peace, love, humility, wisdom, and wit. While tackling topics ranging from grief to fatherhood, from addictions to friendships, this writer captures the essence of a born-again, alcoholic dad who is grateful to have finally found serenity in life. Today, through this collection of both old and new works, he shares that serenity with you!
BOTTLED MEMORIES
These stand-alone poems were written over many years. While individually they describe the conflicts associated with alcoholism, when read together they reveal a more complete picture of the destruction, depression, and chaos of addiction, as well as the peace, hope, and joy of recovery. Although most of these poems pertain to my life, it is my hope that other people will relate to them also. It’s not only my story but the story of so many others.