Full Description
Since 1876, approximately 16,000 young men have enjoyed at least a taste of glory by appearing in big league games, many of them only a few times. By the end of the 2009 season, out of the millions who have aspired, fewer than three thousand individuals had had the good fortune to be a major league regular for five or more seasons. The median age at which they hung up their spikes was 35. However, 197 men played in their last big league contest at the age of 30 or younger.
With a focus on the stories of 15 greats and near-greats, this book provides information on these 197 men. Why did their careers end so soon? The reasons are varied and include drug and alcohol abuse, suicide, illness, injury, banishment, and declining ability among others.
Contents
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments
Preface
Abbreviations
Part One: Leading Position Players
Chicken Wolf
Bill Lange
Ross Youngs
Benny Kauff
Freddie Lindstrom
Bob Horner
Ray Chapman
Carlos May
Happy Felsch
Part Two: Leading Pitchers
Amos Rusie
Sandy Koufax
Sadie McMahon
Addie Joss
Bob Caruthers
Win Mercer
Part Three: All Position Players
First Basemen
Second Basemen
Shortstops
Third Basemen
Catchers
Right Fielders
Center Fielders
Left Fielders
Part Four: All Pitchers
Appendix
Notes
Bibliography
Index
