The Wonderful World Of Sport

OPENING DAY FOR AMATEURS AND PROS

In Washington D.C. a noted sore-shouldered right-hander drew back his arm and fired the ball from his box seat; in Detroit a bow-tied governor squatted behind home plate to receive the first pitch; in Atlanta a bosomy actress displayed her baseball form, and in Chicago a 66-year-old mechanic did the honors as opening days for the 1955 baseball season sprouted around the U.S., Cuba and Canada. When all the amateurs famous and unknown alike had finished their appointed tasks it was the umpires' turn to step up to home plate and shout the game's most venerable clich�: "Play ball!" And then in the best of traditions came the time for "hurlers to toe the slab," and "hitters to swing the ash." With the ball actually in play, several professional performers immediately served notice that from opening day to October they themselves intend to produce the headlines of the sports pages. Among those who stood out were massive Ted Kluszewski of Cincinnati whose 49 home runs last season led both leagues; Ralph Kiner, purchased by the Cleveland Indians this winter from the Chicago Cubs; and Robin Roberts, the Philadelphia Phillies' iron-armed pitcher.

President Eisenhower concentrates on his pitching form as he throws out the first ball in Washington.

Governor G. Mennen Williams of Michigan uses a catcher's mitt while waiting for the first pitch at Detroit.

Ted Kluszewski, Cincinnati first baseman, accepts congratulations of teammates Ray Jablonski and Gus Bell after hitting home run on opening day.

Ralph Kiner deal begins to pay off immediately for the Cleveland Indians as Kiner hits a home run for the Indians in first game against Chicago White Sox. The Indians beat White Sox 5-1 in game.

Governor Frank Lausche, Ohio, tosses ball at Cincinnati.

Film star Terry Moore's feet are wiped off after she threw the first ball barefoot at Atlanta.

Mechanic Jacob Walter, 66, hurls ball for Chicago Cubs, who picked him as average fan.

Robin Roberts of Philadelphia Phillies follows through on pitch in game against New York Giants. Roberts allowed no hits for 8? innings, won 4-2.