Hollywood Stars

* An addendum to “Extra Innings,” Sept. 1: Late ‘30s--scene, Gilmore Stadium, the home of midget auto racing: The San Francisco Missions came to town and became the Hollywood Stars.

Early ‘40s--scene, Gilmore Field: I joined the Stars in 1941 as an 18-year-old rookie. We had Bill Sweeney as manager, Cliff Dapper, Charlie Root, Roy Joiner, Freddie Gay, Johnny Bittner. Others were Billy Cissel, second base; Joe Hoover, shortstop; Bob Kahle, third base; Wally Berger, Babe Herman and Frenchie Uhalt, outfield. We were a station-to-station ball club: Hit and no run, as we were slow and a little old.

This group helped build the foundation for a very successful 1950-1960 franchise. Bob Cobb, Bill Frawley, Gail Patrick and George Young were the owners and our leaders. They showed great patience with the 1941-42 teams.

It was a highlight to be associated with the Hollywood Stars, even in a minor role.

ED REYES

Whittier