quote:Originally posted by infielddad:
Some very courageous players like Curt Flood felt so strongly that they sacrificed their careers...
Being in the clubhouse at the end of Curt Flood's career, I assure you Flood's actions vs MLB did
NOT "sacrifice" his great career!
After receiving $90,000 in salary from the Cards in 1969, Flood collected his $110,000 salary in 1971, and hung on before ending his career, batting below the Mendoza (only .200) and lackluster play in CF. Despite Mr. Williams encouragement, Flood hung it up in and retired.
Although Flood's legal challenge and filing a $1 million lawsuit vs Bowie Kuhn and MLB, alleging that MLB had violated federal antitrust laws was unsuccessful, no active players testified, nor did any attend the trial.
Ultimately, the reserve clause was struck down as pitchers Andy Messersmith and Dave McNally played for one season without a contract, when an arbitrator ruled they could become free agents.
It was this decision that essentially dismantled the reserve clause and opened the door to widespread free agency and additional solidarity among players as they would continue to fight the owner's to become the untouchable Players Union they are today!