Bo Belinsky

Bo Belinsky's story proves the adage that all that glitters is not gold. One of baseball's most notorious figures, Belinsky began in the minor leagues in the mid-1950s, gained a spotlight with a no-hitter for the Angels during his rookie season, and endured severe ups and downs. Along the way, he dated the most famous actresses in America, including Mamie Van Doren, Connie Stevens, and Tina Louise.

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.