Business History The Man who Sued Major League Baseball (Rather than go to Philly)
Dec 3, 2025
Curt Flood, a star center fielder, took a bold stand against Major League Baseball after being traded without consent. Refusing to go to Philadelphia, he sued, claiming players should be able to choose their teams. His battle highlighted the unjust reserve clause and challenged baseball's unique antitrust exemption. The trial was a turning point, with impactful testimonies, including Jackie Robinson's support. Although Flood lost, his fight for player rights set the stage for free agency and changed sports economics forever.
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Players As Workers, Not Property
- Curt Flood framed the reserve clause as coerced labor, calling himself "a well-paid slave."
- His suit forced America to see pro sports as big business, not just a game.
Woken At 4 a.m. And Traded To Philly
- Flood was told at 4 a.m. he'd been traded to the Philadelphia Phillies after 12 years in St. Louis.
- He refused the move and instead pursued a legal challenge to the reserve clause.
Use Public Pressure Alongside Lawsuits
- Test legal strategy against precedent and public opinion before litigating high-stakes cases.
- Use public letters and media to shift the court of public opinion when law is stacked against you.
