When aging ballplayer Paul Kolbe learns that the St. Louis Cardinals need a replacement player, he's determined to return to the field for one last hurrah. He's past his prime, his health is failing, and he's an alcoholic, but he refuses to let these things stand in his way. But on his way back to the field, Paul must overcome even more obstacles. He has to deal with individuals inside and outside the baseball organization who are determined to block his success, and he must resolve the conflicted feelings he has about two women he's dating. He does, however, get support and encouragement along the way, particularly from the ghost of long-dead baseball great Joe Fisher, the last National League player to win the Triple Crown over seventy-five years ago. Part of Joe's success was due to the use of Northwoods pine tar for superior bat grip, an item he provides Paul from time to time. As he chases his dream, Paul's health continues to decline, and he finds himself in desperate need of a liver transplant but knows that getting one would ruin his last shot at being a professional player. Will he be able to play and still get the transplant in time? Or are some dreams really worth dying for in the end?