The World Series of 1919 spawned a scandal that lead to eight men being banned from the sport and having the nickname “Black Sox” attached to them. Usually the best of 7, the 1919 series was the first “best of 9” series that would run until 1921. It was a way to rouse interest in the sport and a way for gamblers to make or lose their money. It was also, however, a tempting thing for some of the Chicago White Sox players who were not paid very well—even at that time. The headlines of the time confirmed the odds—White Sox at 5-1 over the Reds. On October 1, however, the headlines had a bit of a shift. The White Sox starting pitcher, Cicotte, had been complaining of a sore arm. The odds swung to the Reds at 8-5 over the Sox. White Sox first baseman, Arnold “Chick” Gandil, and his gambling friend were the two who developed the...
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