The blurbs are sure to catch one's attention (Franzen, Patterson, Obreht, et al.). The hype/praise is mostly well deserved. Harbach showcases his talents as a very good writer. To be this good with your first novel is quite the accomplishment. I worried about the length of this book going in but Harbach's prose is beautiful and almost lyrical at times, that it made the book pretty easy to devour. 
 His best strengths are in capturing the game of baseball so well. I first noticed this in his Grantland piece he wrote about his experience at a playoff game in Milwaukee. This dude loves the game and the feel of baseball in this book is pitch perfect. This, I think, is where the comparisons with Friday Night Lights stem from. 
 I don't think it's perfect (some of the Guert stuff got repetitive/didn't work) but this book hasn't been over-hyped. Yes, even non baseball fans will like it. Should make a very nice Christmas gift for the baseball fan in your life.