Читать книгу Bad Boys, Bad Times. The Cleveland Indians and Baseball in the Prewar Years, 1937–1941 онлайн

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While living in New York City, Lary gravitated toward the high-society nightlife. He saw every new movie and attended all sorts of trendy Broadway plays. He began to dress like a movie mogul, often being seen wearing the latest fashion of flannel trousers, brightly colored silk shirts, and navy blazers with coordinated handkerchiefs in the breast pocket. In addition, he smoked a pipe, looking every part the Hollywood director. One day Babe Ruth walked into the Yankees locker room and noticed Lyn wearing one of his classic outfits. The Babe smiled and said, “Hi, Broadway!” The nickname stuck immediately and followed Lary the rest of his playing career.

Though Lary had a great season in 1931, another milestone was just around the corner. While watching a new feature film, he indirectly met his wife-to-be, the beautiful Mary Lawlor. The two did not have a conversation because Mary was on the screen, the lead actress of the popular comedy being shown. Lary viewed the movie several times, convinced he had found his one true love. Via a great stroke of luck, Miss Lawlor would soon leave Hollywood for an extended run on the Broadway stage. Lary wrangled tickets to the play and, through a mutual friend, David Marks, got a quick introduction. The encounter did not go well, as Mary paid little attention to the smitten Lary. Undeterred, he thought he could impress her by dropping off complimentary box seat tickets to the next Yankee game. The day came and Lary kept peering into the stands, hoping to catch a glimpse of the classy star. Much to his disappointment, the actress never arrived. He discovered later that Mary knew nothing about baseball and had no interest in seeing a game.