What I loved about this book is that it didn't feel like one long AP article. Baggarly cuts right to the point, gives background on the players who were on the team and how they ended in San Francisco, and gave quick recaps of the games. One of my favorite authors John Feinstein has the problem of turning his books into one long AP article. His book on the 2004-2005 Baltimore Ravens was basically a 500 page AP article. Baggarly doesn't do this with A Band of Misfits.
Now if you're a San Francisco Giants fan you're probably asking yourself why would you buy this book? You followed the 2010 Giants and know all about Brian Wilson's beard and Aubrey Huff's rally thong. Giants fans need to purchase this book and read it because of all the behind the scenes stories of the front office. How general manager Brian Sabean was forced to part with his friends and scouts in favor of younger guys. How player personnel director Dick Tidrow scouted and eventually drafted pitchers like Tim Lincecum and Jonathon Sanchez.
Then there are the back story's I had no idea about. Like about the tragic death of Madison Bumgarner's sister before the season began. Andres Torres long struggle to finally reach a major league roster. Pat Burrell's exploits in Philadelphia.
If you're a non-Giants fan I would buy this book just for the stories of the players. How Aubrey Huff and Brian Wilson overcame the deaths of their fathers. How Bruce Bochy was begrudgingly given respect by Giants fans. Why nine other teams passed on Tim Lincecum in the draft including his hometown team Seattle Mariners.
No word or quote is wasted by Baggarly in this book and that what makes A Band of Misfits a must read.
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