This ambitious study of major league managers through the entire history of baseball since the formation of the National League applies a sabermetric approach to gauging the performance and tendencies of such men as Connie Mack, John McGraw, Tommy Lasorda and scores of others. Rather than focusing solely on in-game tactical decisions, it also analyzes broader, off-the-field management issues such as handling players, fans, and media, enforcing team rules, working with the front office, and balancing pressure versus performance to develop a fuller appraisal of each manager's effectiveness and stature among his peers.