It’s October 14th, 2006. We’re at Comerica Park in Detroit for recreation 4 of the ALCS between the hometown Tigers and the Oakland A’s. Detroit, main the sequence three video games to none, is raring to have fun. However proper now, these plans are on maintain – it’s tied within the backside of the ninth with two outs. Certain, Maglio Ordonez is up at bat, however simply being sensible right here – we’re most likely getting some free, playoff baseball by way of additional innings tonight.

For each groups, getting this near the World Collection is an accomplishment. They’ve taken lengthy, winding, at occasions injury-riddled roads to succeed in right here. However getting so far was by no means the purpose – everybody concerned needs and in sure instances deserves extra. To completely perceive why followers’ hearts are of their throats, fists are clenched, and prayers are streaming from the non secular and non-religious alike, we have to rewind.