1. The Setup: The dramatic tension builds as the Mudville Nine are down to their last outs, and the crowd's hopes rest on Casey.
* "But Flynn preceded Casey, as the ninth man in the row; He went to first, and then to second, then he reached the goal;
* The crowd roared like a storm, when Casey reached the plate, With a mighty roar of anger, as the Mudville Nine were late."
2. Casey's Swagger: The anticipation reaches its peak as Casey steps up to bat, exuding confidence and power.
* "There was ease in Casey's manner as he stepped into his place; There was pride in Casey's bearing and a smile on Casey's face.
* And when, responding to the cheers, he lightly doffed his hat, No stranger in the crowd could doubt 'twas Casey at the bat."
3. The Strikeout: The climax of the poem, as Casey's failure is met with stunned silence and devastation.
* "Two strikes were called, and then a third; the crowd was hushed and still;
* For Casey stood a-watching, and the pitcher stood a-willing, And the umpire yelled 'Strike Three!' and Casey had to go."
The "highest point" ultimately depends on your interpretation of the poem. You could argue that the build-up to Casey's at-bat is the most exciting, or that his strikeout is the most impactful moment. However, the poem is about more than just baseball; it's about the power of hope and the crushing weight of disappointment.