What the fans didn't know about was the disastrous effect of Belinsky's alcoholism and drug abuse. Three marriages resulted in divorces. He couldn't get traction in rehab or Alcoholics Anonymous. Only in the 1990s when he moved to Las Vegas did he embrace sobriety and find a satisfying new career.
This first biography of Belinsky's full life draws upon archival newspaper articles to reconstruct his colorful career. Interviews with Belinsky's friends and colleagues show a different side to this controversial player who experienced the benefits and the terrific costs of fame.