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| On Saturday, July 3, 2004 ESPN Classic, along with former major league pitcher and Ball Four author Jim Bouton, brought sports fans a one-of-a-kind look into the history of one of the nation's most treasured and historic institutions: baseball. America's Pastime: Vintage Baseball, Live (7-11 p.m. ET, ESPN Classic) transported fans from around the country to historic Wahconah Park (established in 1892) in Pittsfield, Mass. for a live telecast of a vintage baseball game between the Hartford Senators and the Pittsfield Hillies.
The game featured amateur clubs competing under 1886 rules and adhering to the uniform styles, equipment and conduct of 19th century baseball. Veteran announcer Ron Thulin provided play-by-play and was joined by former Red Sox pitcher Bill "Spaceman" Lee, actor Tim Robbins, and baseball historians John Thorn and David Pietrusza, who provided color commentary. Randy and Jason Sklar, the twin-brother hosts of ESPN Classic's Cheap Seats provided additional reporting. A fireworks show followed the game. Over 4,500 fans attended. The Hartford Senators won 14-12. Cast: Jim Bouton . . . Himself Bill Lee . . . Himself Chris "Grit" Moran . . . . Moran David Pietrusza . . . Himself Deb McManany . . . Herself "Pops" O'Maxfield . . . Himself Dave Potts . . . Himself Tim Robbins . . . Himself Jim Ruberto . . . Himself The Quintesential Singers . . . Themselves Jason Sklar . . . Himself Randy Sklar . . . Himself Ron Thulin . . . Himself John Thorn . . . Himself Frank Tomczuk . . . Himself Phil Wood . . . Himself Running Time: 4 hours. 6 minutes A production of ESPN Classic 2004 |
| America's Pastime: Vintage Baseball, Live Broadcast by ESPN Classic Saturday, July 3, 2004 |
| Bill Lee, David Pietrusza, and Ron Thulin on ESPN Classic's July 2004 Coverage of Vintage Baseball from Pittsfield, Ma. |
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