CASEY Awards Return to Covington for Best Baseball Books

Felix Braun · 2026-02-25

Hey there, baseball fans and book lovers. You know that feeling when you find a book that just gets it right? That captures the crack of the bat, the smell of the grass, and the history in the air? That's exactly what the CASEY Awards are all about, and I'm excited to share that they're coming back home. The 43rd Annual CASEY Awards for the Best Baseball Book of the Year are returning to Covington, Kentucky. It's a big deal for the local community and for anyone who believes a great baseball story is about more than just stats—it's about heart, hustle, and history. ### What Makes the CASEY Awards Special? This isn't your typical literary prize. The CASEY Award has a legacy. For over four decades, it's honored authors who dig deep into the soul of the game. We're talking about books that explore forgotten legends, pivotal moments, and the personal stories that happen off the diamond. It celebrates narrative, research, and that intangible magic that makes baseball America's pastime. Think about it. A great baseball book can transport you. You're not just reading about a game from 1975; you're feeling the tension, hearing the crowd. The CASEY Award recognizes the writers who make that happen. ### Why Covington, Kentucky? You might be wondering, why Covington? Well, location matters. Northern Kentucky, with Covington at its heart, has a rich baseball tradition of its own. It's a community that appreciates its history and its stories. Hosting the awards here isn't just a logistical choice; it's a homecoming. It connects the celebration of baseball literature directly to a region that breathes sports culture. It brings authors, publishers, and fans together in a setting that feels authentic. It's not some sterile conference hall. It's a place where you can imagine talking baseball over a local brew, debating the merits of last year's winner. ### What This Means for Readers and Writers For aspiring authors, this award is a beacon. It's a goal. Winning a CASEY can change a career, shining a spotlight on a work that might otherwise get lost on the shelf. For readers, it's the ultimate curated list. Each year's finalists and winners represent the best of the best. You don't have to sift through hundreds of titles; the CASEY committee does that heavy lifting for you. Here’s what you can typically expect from a CASEY-contending book: - Deep, narrative-driven storytelling - Meticulous historical research - A focus on character and human interest - Writing that appeals to both hardcore fans and casual readers As one past judge famously noted, "The best baseball writing isn't about the game you see on TV. It's about the game you feel in your bones." That's the standard. ### Looking Ahead to the Ceremony While specific details for this year's event are still being finalized, the return to Covington is locked in. We can expect the usual fanfare: author panels, signings, and of course, the award ceremony itself. It's a gathering that turns readers into a community. If you've never been, it's worth the trip. There's an energy there you just don't get from reading a press release. So, mark your calendars loosely for when the details drop. Keep an eye on local Covington venues and literary hubs. Whether you're a writer with a manuscript or a reader with a growing shelf, the CASEY Awards coming back to town is news worth celebrating. It's a reminder that the stories of baseball are still being written, and they're being honored right here in Kentucky.