By September 1977, Lyman is in the top 10 in the AL in hitting after starting his first season with the Angels in a huge slump. With the Angels in playoff contention during a late season series against the White Sox, he returns to Gary to spend the night with family after a game in Chicago.
Youvene thought about surprising him on the trip, but decided against it.
Visiting Gary was Lyman’s ritual whenever he played in Chicago, but this trip would cost him his life.