As a youngster I was always fascinated with the 1919 Black Sox scandal. Eight players from the Chicago White Sox were accused of throwing the series against the Cincinnati Reds, and this group included the great Shoeless Joe Jackson. Ever since he was banished for life from professional baseball there has been debate as to whether he actually tried to throw that World Series.
During the series, Jackson maintained excellent statistics. 12-for-32; .375 batting average; 5-for-12 with men in scoring position; 5 runs; 3 doubles; 1 home run and 6 RBIs. Those numbers suggest he was trying, although some suggest he intentionally hit poorly at points when he could have most helped his team. Of course, if this was the case, he would have to have hit incredibly in other situations to maintain that .375 average.
I like to believe that he agreed to participate in the fix but changed his mind. I choose to believe that he gave it his all against the Reds in 1919 and tried to return the $5000 he took at the onset. There's a reason the story of Shoeless Joe translated so well in print and on the screen. Adding to the mystique is the fact the White Sox haven't won the World Series since.
The Chicago White Sox have some demons to exorcise. They'll get their opportunity starting tonight. I'll be rooting for them.
