By Andy Dann
February 7 2003

Was it the Grand Slams? Was it the Triple Plays or the Strikeouts? Was it because of the atmosphere in the ballparks or the allstar ballplayers? Or was it simply that you were born into baseball-loving family? Tell us, in your own words, how did you become interested in the great game of baseball?

"Angel Fever"

Andy Dann
from Peterborough, England
Originally published on April 26th, 2001

In 1982 I went to work in LA for a year. My work took me regularly to Anaheim. Being a cricket fan I wasn't too impressed by these 'Yanks' having to wear gloves.

However, when in Rome etc etc.

So I went along to the Anaheim Stadium as it was then called just to see what the game was all about. Cant remember the opposition that night but I sat next to a guy who, then he found out I was a Brit explained the rules and how to score. I was hooked. I ended up going at least once a week for the whole season in which the Angels won the American League West. Had some terrific nights and afternoons at the Big A.

Most disappointing thing was getting to the play-offs and being 2 games up against the Brewers, the Angels then put World Series Tickets on sale. I queued up for hours but got my tickets. We then lost three on the trot and the Brewers went to the World Series to be beaten by the Cards. However Angels '82 will live with me forever. What a team..... Brian Downing!

Rod Carew, Fred Lynn, Don Baylor, Bob Boone, Tim Foley, Doug DeCinces, Bobby Grich and of course the great Reggie Jackson. If only we had some decent pitchers that year!