How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #1
And then when Cooney died at first, and Barrows did the same,
A sickly silence fell upon the patrons of the game. (3-4)
In the poem's very first stanza, the speaker lets us know that this is no recreational league game. This is a serious, life or death competition—and not just for the players. The fans are so invested in their hometown team that the thought of a loss is almost sickening.
Quote #2
A straggling few got up to go in deep despair. The rest
Clung to that hope which springs eternal in the human breast; (5-6)
Okay, so a few of the Mudville fans bail out. There are always a few nonbelievers in every crowd. But most of the Mudville faithful stick around despite near certain defeat. Why? Because it ain't over 'till it's over, and these fans are competitive. They haven't lost yet, so they aren't going anywhere.
Quote #3
Then while the writhing pitcher ground the ball into his hip,
Defiance gleamed in Casey's eye, a sneer curled Casey's lip. (27-28)
Baseball is a team sport, but often the battle comes down to two individuals: the pitcher and the batter. Casey and the pitcher are locked in fierce competition and they know it. On paper, this pitcher has the advantage. He only needs to get one out. But he's facing Mudville's hero, and Casey is confident he can beat the odds and get the winning hit. These two lines really bring the competitive focus away from the teams and onto Casey and the pitcher.