The 2004 baseball season has arrived, and there is now a great way to find out more about America’s favorite pastime. West Virginia University Press has just published a new book calledThe Inside Pitch . . . and More: Baseball’s Business and the Public Trust.Penned by Gene A. Budig, the last American League president, the book gives an insider’s look at baseball’s past, present and future.

The book addresses issues like the potential lock-out of 2002, Pete Rose, Sammy Sosa and the designated hitter rule. The reader is also allowed to go behind the scenes in the negotiations for new ballparks. In addition, one will see how owners deal with the astronomical salaries, and how small market teams compete with the big guns.

The author also shares his wealth of information on key baseball icons such as Bud Selig, David Stern, Gary Bettman, Jerry Reinsdorf, Al Neuharth, Rod Thorn, Brian Cashman and other baseball figures.

Gene A. Budig who is most recognized for his six years of service as the former American League president, also held many distinguished positions in higher education. Prior to his stint with major league baseball, Budig was a professor at the University of Nebraska and went on to head three institutions of higher learning: WVU , University of Kansas and Illinois State University. Budig, currently a professor of sports business at Princeton University, uses his long list of credentials to present a unique look at baseball.

Insightful and informative,The Inside Pitchand Morewill interest readers wishing to discover everything baseball, from its history to the behind-the-scenes events which inform the sport.

For more information about this or other books published by the West Virginia University Press call toll free 1-866-WVU-PRESS (988-7737) or visithttp://www.wvupress.com.