Guide Mentor

Character Role Analysis

Sam Simpson, Pop Fisher, Red Blow

Sam's only in the novel for a few pages, but he makes an impact on young Roy. He's the scout who recognized Roy before anyone else did and gets him his first major league opportunity. He's got the life skills Roy lacks and seems to be shepherding him through the trip to the big city. He also makes a ghostly appearance in the hospital, telling Roy not to do it.

Pop and Red serve the same function in Roy's later life. They help him navigate the city when he arrives in New York and they encourage his career. Pop lends Roy money and treats him like a son.