What a great story! Is there anything more magical than being a kid with those giant-sized heroes right before your eyes? Omg, you were AT that game!
As a son of ND dirt-farmers, I could only imagine from what I heard on the radio- These days, heck, I don't remember what I had for lunch yesterday, but I still remember that warm summer day on the plains, and Herb Carneal's call, Reese pinch-hitting for Kaat. (Lefty-lefty matchup, yo!)
"It's hit high in the air toward DEEP center field (me thinking it was gonna be a loud out). Buford going back....... Grand slam for Reese!" And just like that, the hated Orioles were vanquished, and McNally's streak was over.
We'd re-enact that scene over and over out there in the yard, echoing that call each time. Thanks, Al, for posting this, and allowing a sweet recollection over the miles and years. ⚾