Opening Day Jitters
The spring air was filled with anticipation on this day in 1964, as the Norwood High School varsity baseball team prepared to take the field for their eagerly awaited season opener. Their opponent for this classic rivalry game, scheduled to be played under the lights at the town’s primary baseball field on April 23, was neighboring Walpole High School.
The Mustangs were led by their new and widely respected head coach, Coach O’Connell, known for his emphasis on fundamentals, defense, aggressive baserunning, and disciplined plate appearances. Assistant Coach Coach Donovan spent the final practice weeks refining the squad. Expectation for the season were particularly high, fueled by the return of several key players. Leading the charge were the team’s ace pitcher, right-handed senior Dave Smith; a strong veteran presence in the outfield, including the reigning league RBI leader Steve Adams in right field and speedy centerfielder Ronnie Peterson; and the slick-fielding shortstop Tim O’Neil.
Other key returning players ready for action included pitcher/first baseman Bill Johnson, first baseman Jimmy King, catcher Joey Brown, and third baseman Billy Wilson. Rounding out the defensive lineup for the opener were second baseman Frank Davis and left fielder Mike Miller. Available arms in the bullpen included Tommy O’Brien, Richie Sullivan, and Johnny Green.
“We have tremendous depth and versatility on this team,” Coach O’Connell stated. “This week was about final refinements, but these young men are ready. This isn’t just a game; it’s Norwood baseball, and when you’re playing Walpole, every player in that dugout knows the history and knows what’s expected of them.”
Walpole was always a formidable opponent, known for their powerful lineup and deep pitching staff. In the days leading up to the game, the rivalry was palpable. Opening Day was always a special event in Norwood, and the stands were expected to be packed with students, parents, alumni, former coaches, and generations of fans. Local businesses also embraced the event; a local hardware store advertised a “Mustang Blue” paint sale, and a pizza parlor promised a “Walpole Wrecker” pizza to anyone wearing a Norwood hat. On this day, the stage was set for an epic Opening Day.
Final Mustangs roster for Opening Day
- Pitchers: Dave Smith, Bill Johnson, Tommy O’Brien
- Catchers: Joey Brown, Frank Davis
- Infielders: Jimmy King (1B), Slick-Fielding Shortstop (explicitly described as slick-fielding in previous articles but named on roster as Bob White), Tim O’Neil (2B), Billy Wilson (3B)
- Outfielders: Mike Miller (LF), Speedy Centerfielder (described as speedy in previews but named as Ronnie Peterson), Reigning League RBI Leader (described in previews but named as Steve Adams in RF).
- Utility/Reserves: Johnny Green, Kevin Hall, Paul O’Malley, Richie Sullivan.
Text and images may have been created, edited, colorized, or digitally restored using AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot or Google Gemini. All content is reviewed for accuracy and historical integrity before publication by the Norwood Historical Society
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