Ridiculous Crime Say It Ain't So, Joe: The 1919 Black Sox Scandal
Oct 28, 2025
Dive into the notorious 1919 World Series scandal where gamblers lured Chicago White Sox players into throwing the games for cash. Discover the discontent among players fueled by their meager salaries and shady ownership. Intrigue escalates as internal conflicts and mismanagement lead to unexpected twists during the games. Witness betrayal as players attempt to back out, only to face threats. After a chaotic series, the aftermath reveals shocking confessions, major profits for gamblers, and a lifetime ban that changes baseball forever.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Players Recruit For A Fix
- The White Sox players, led by Chick Gandall and Eddie Cicotte, agreed to a gambler's plan to fix the 1919 World Series for upfront cash and installments.
- They recruited Jackson, Weaver, Risberg, Felch, McMullen, Williams and believed a syndicate would pay them to throw games.
Owner Cheapness Fueled The Scheme
- Owner Charles Comiskey's stinginess and the reserve clause created deep player resentment and financial vulnerability.
- That structural unfairness made players receptive to gambler payoffs despite the moral cost.
Gambler Network And Rothstein's Role
- Sleepy Bill Burns and Sport Sullivan approached Arnold Rothstein seeking backing; Rothstein initially balked but his circle later pretended support.
- Rothstein (or his associates) ultimately fronted $10,000 to seal the players' agreement.
