![]() The book chronicles Flood's life, from his beginnings in the Oakland youth baseball leagues up to his death in 1997 due to throat cancer, and everything in between. For more on the reserve clause, I suggest this article by former BtBer Peter Bendix, an excellent read in its own right. He refused to report to his new team though, and according to the reserve clause rules at the time if he would not sign a contract for the Phillies he would have to effectively retire at age 31. On Octohe was traded as part of a package to the Philadelphia Phillies. Louis Cardinals star CF of the 1960s, a 3 time All-Star, 7 time Gold Glove winner and career OPS+ of 100. That man is Curt Flood, and Brad Snyder's A Well Paid Slave: Curt Flood's Fight for Free Agency in Professional Sports is the definitive book on his fight.įor those unfamiliar with Flood's story, he was the St. In his own words, “A well paid slave is still a slave.As today we honor a man who stood up for the rights of everyone, I felt it would be the perfect day to review a book about the man who stood up for the rights of baseball players, and athletes everywhere really, to become free agents. His willingness to not back down inspired others and has left a lasting impact. Sadly, Curtis Charles Flood had to face racial discrimination, no team support, and alcoholism in order for it to happen. The free agency revolution had made its way to all sports. Although Flood didn’t win his case, it was years later that the tide for players started to take a turn. Upon returning to the game the following year with the Washington Senators, the center fielder was not at his best.Īfter playing only 13 games, he decided to retire. The baseball player sacrificed his career and financial stability by sitting out the 1970 season. Even though he was backed by the newly formed Player’s Union, his suit resulted in a loss. Overnight, he went from being a fan favorite to receiving death threats. Nevertheless, Curt’s suit laid down the foundation and opened up doors for future players. ![]() Flood made it quite clear that he was against not being in control of his own destiny.Ī few players before him tried to contest the reverse clause and failed. It also forced the courts to take a look at whether or not baseball was a sport or a business. This stance shook up professional sports as a whole. He not only refused to go, but he wanted to challenge the clause with his lawyer.įlood also let the executive and founder of the Players Association know that he was suing the league. However, the decision to be sent to another team did not sit well with Curt Flood. Regardless of his long-standing relationship with the team, Curtis Flood found himself out in far left field.ĭue to the reverse clause of the 20th century, players were bound to one franchise unless traded, released, or retired. On October 8, 1969, the major leaguer was told by middle management that he was being traded. He also missed a fly ball in the middle of a championship game, which may have played a factor in his salary readjustment and career with the team from then on. In 1968, Flood’s bright light started to dim when he demanded a raise from the Cardinals. As he continued to improve his skills throughout the years, Curt Flood earned several accolades, such as two-time World Series championships, three-time All Star, and seven-time Gold Glove.ĭespite having an overall great career full of highs and lows, the professional’s best challenge was yet to come. Louis Cardinals, where he remained for 12 seasons as a center fielder.ĭuring this time, the athlete was able to flourish, especially under the management of Johnny Keane in 1961. ![]() About a year later, he was traded to the St. Flood made his debut into major league baseball for the Cincinnati Redlegs on September 9, 1956. If it weren’t for the actions of this courageous man Curtis Charles Flood, athletes would not have a free agency platform to stand on.
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