Away From The Ball

9 - 3 was the score as the Redbirds prevailed over the Phillies in 2:55 today at Busch Stadium. The Cards' starting pitcher was making his Major League debut and didn't make it out of the third inning. But he was in the game long enough that his mother, who was in the seats, gave our telecast it's best replays of the day and, in fact, the best live shots of the day. The live shots and replays showed happiness and anguish, anxiety and relief, all during the first 2 1/3 innings. In fact, the joy expressed when her son retired the first batter of the game was the only shot we used in our rollout. I believe the best shots and the best replays are those that don't follow the ball. I believe shots away from the ball are most effective because only the viewer at home sees them. The fans in the stands are following the ball and, therefore, don't see them.