The Big Field

The book’s title represents the theme of the hopes and pressures of young athletes. The prospect of playing on “the big field” compels the narrative, with Cody telling Hutch, “I just want to get to that big field at Roger Dean so bad” (32). Roger Dean Stadium is in Jupiter, Florida, and it’s where the St. Louis Cardinals and Marlins play spring training games. By playing on “the big field,” Hutch, Cody, and the other Cardinals can realize their dream of occupying the same place as professional baseball players. However, with the expectation of this possible future comes the burden of pressure. The Cardinals feel pressure to win and make it to the finals.

In the story, the pressure on young athletes isn’t toxic. Mike Lupica regularly presents it as a positive challenge and not an adverse element foisted on young athletes by adults. Carl would rather have Hutch not have the pressure of caring so much about baseball. While the media adds to the stress, it doesn’t corrupt the players. Hutch deftly handles the media pressure and gives a succinct interview after his home run against the Yankees. Later, he ignores media coverage of his error in game one and his Jeter-like “flip” play in game two.