E57A Transmission shifter

[RangerBogger]

Hey guys, I'm trying to fix my 85 manual tranny. There is supposed to be a polyurethaine ball on the end of the stick but it came off in the slot its supposed to and is completely useless now. If I try to shift over into reverse the lever will pop out and leave my truck engauged. I need suggestions to get the ball out because I really wanna get my truck rolling again. I've tried jamming a screwdriver down in the sides to pry the mashed ball away and then grab it with pliers but it just tears wear the pliers are holding it....