Words: 72
Average Length: 5.31
I began constructing this grid by deciding I would put a 12/15/12 stack across the middle, as one of my favorite constructors, Tim Croce, often does. (If you like super-challenging themeless puzzles, he’s one of the best in the biz. He posts new puzzles every Tuesday and Friday evening at 6 eastern time on his site, Club 72.)
Next step was coming up with an appropriate 15 (37 Across), and I’d happened to use this exact phrase about half an hour before starting construction. (Suffice it to say I am in daily contact with a few “half-empty glass” types.) The first 12 (34 Across) is something that Is not so widely known and practiced as it should be. Hit the backbeats, people! The second 12 (40 Across) was a great pitcher, but he made the puzzle on the basis of the pun in the clue. Enjoy!
Jeff's Puzzles 