On September 6, 1967, in the midst of a pressure-filled six-week pennant race, the Red Sox, Tigers, Twins and White Sox stood together atop the American League. Never before or since have four teams tied for the lead in baseball’s final month. On three subsequent occasions including the season’s final day, three of them tied again. In 1967 the stakes were high because there were no playoffs. The pennant winner went directly to the World Series. The size, consistent tightness and duration of this pennant race make it unique. Here, for the first time, all four teams and their players are treated equally.

The teams provide wonderful contrasts with substantial differences in skill sets, leadership and temperament. Overt psychological and physical intimidation played a major role throughout the season. The standings were volatile, and so were emotions. The stress of competing against so many other teams for so long was constant. Its effects on players, managers and teams were visibly corrosive in some cases and galvanizing in others. Tragically, some wilted or broke. Others responded heroically.