Blue Monday: The Expos, The Dodgers, and the Home Run That Changed Everything

Long-time Montreal Expos beat writer Danny Gallagher has written yet another book. This read takes an in-depth look at one of the most significant moments in the Expos’ franchise history; Blue Monday. 

Gallagher’s newest masterpiece, released by publisher Dundurn Press, is comprised of 74 interviews including multiple lengthy chats with Rick Monday; the man who ended the Expos 1981 World Series chase. 

“My first chat with Rick for this book was about 45 minutes long, and then months later, we talked for another 75 minutes,” Gallagher said. “I also talked with Steve Rogers for two hours and interviewed many other players and officials with both the Expos and Dodgers.”

The 256 paged book features 25 photos along with excel charts and illustrations displaying the Expos storied past. 

The story begins in 1976 when the Expos signed former World Series-winning manager Dick Williams. That was the same off-season when Reggie Jackson hit free agency and the Expos were very much in the running for the slugger. 

But of course, the book centers around the 1981 season.  Gallagher says “The book takes a broad look at the 1981 season with emphasis on the post-season, especially the memorable at-bat involving Monday and Rogers.”

If you’re an Expos fan or just enjoy reading about the history of baseball, be sure to get your hands on Blue Monday; The Expos, The Dodgers, and the Homerun that Changed Everything, for a behind the scene look at some of the long going Expos debates. 

“There are a lot of nuggets in the book, a lot of secrets unlocked. I deal a lot with why Steve Rogers was brought in to pitch in the ninth inning and why Jeff Reardon wasn’t used,” says Gallagher.

You can pre-order Gallagher’s book online at one of many sites, including Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, Indigo.ca. and barnesandnoble.com.