None of the Dick Allen reports mentions that he was traded to Atlanta by Philadelphia but refused to report over alleged racism concerns. That was around the time the city had a Jewish mayor (Sam Massell) and Hank Aaron was entrenched as a future Hall of Famer.
It wasn't the Phillies who traded Allen to Atlanta, it was the White Sox. Allen had actually thought of retiring as 1974 wound down because injuries finally proved too much for him. He mistakenly failed to file his retirement paperwork with the American League. Then the White Sox put him on the disqualified list before dealing him to Atlanta---or trying to, in December 1974. After his refusal to play in Atlanta, the Braves dealt him to the Phillies after Allen said he'd be interested in returning, with far different management than he'd experienced in his first Philadelphia years.
Hall of Famers are different than other players, the scant few who rise above the rest and we specifically pay to see. Most who play the game are custodians of the sport who suit up and take the field for or against teams we affiliate with.
Dick Allen was a monster mash, a strong man of will and skill. I am happy his family will receive this honor on his behalf, disappointed he is not around to hear the applause.
Rest in peace, big thumper. The colossal moonshot you hit over the left field upper deck and completely out of Connie Mack stadium during my very first game inspired a young boy's lifelong love of what is possible when the best of the best compete at this wonderful game.
None of the Dick Allen reports mentions that he was traded to Atlanta by Philadelphia but refused to report over alleged racism concerns. That was around the time the city had a Jewish mayor (Sam Massell) and Hank Aaron was entrenched as a future Hall of Famer.
It wasn't the Phillies who traded Allen to Atlanta, it was the White Sox. Allen had actually thought of retiring as 1974 wound down because injuries finally proved too much for him. He mistakenly failed to file his retirement paperwork with the American League. Then the White Sox put him on the disqualified list before dealing him to Atlanta---or trying to, in December 1974. After his refusal to play in Atlanta, the Braves dealt him to the Phillies after Allen said he'd be interested in returning, with far different management than he'd experienced in his first Philadelphia years.
Great story Russ!
Hall of Famers are different than other players, the scant few who rise above the rest and we specifically pay to see. Most who play the game are custodians of the sport who suit up and take the field for or against teams we affiliate with.
Dick Allen was a monster mash, a strong man of will and skill. I am happy his family will receive this honor on his behalf, disappointed he is not around to hear the applause.
Rest in peace, big thumper. The colossal moonshot you hit over the left field upper deck and completely out of Connie Mack stadium during my very first game inspired a young boy's lifelong love of what is possible when the best of the best compete at this wonderful game.