Warren’s Wizard

This week I received in the mail a pre-publication, uncorrected page proof version of a new book: The Wizard of Waxahachie: Paul Richards and the End of Baseball as We Knew It, by Warren Corbett.

Ordinarily, I would write a review of such a tome for THT. However, in this instance in all good conscience I can’t review it, because I have no objectivity toward it. I’ve been closely watching and anticipating this ambitious project for several years. Warren even allowed me to edit one of the versions of his manuscript, for which he graciously credits me in his Acknowledgments.

So, take this recommendation for whatever it’s subjectively worth: the book is terrific. Paul Richards is one of the most significant figures in major league baseball history, yet no serious, comprehensive Richards biography had ever been produced. Until now: Corbett presents an impeccably researched, sharply observed, fluidly written account of this brilliant, flawed, and perplexing character. This is a must-read for any serious student of baseball history.

The book’s publication date is October, but you can pre-order a copy here. You will not regret it.