| This Photograph of Ray Chapman
was taken by Photographer Paul Thompson. On the
back, Thompson wrote in pencil: "Indians
Shortstop Ray Chapman hit by pitch. He may die."
When Chapman died a few hours later, Thompson
crossed out "may" and added a "d"
to "die". It's a chilling document to
how quickly the unfortunate incident happened
at the time. |
click to enlarge
|
Promise
Unfulfilled-- Ray Chapman
(1891-1920)
Ray Chapman was the popular shortstop for the Cleveland
Indians from 1912 to 1920. On August 16, 1920, he
was hit in the head by a Carl Mays pitch and died
hours later of his injury—the only major league
player to be killed on a big league field.
The Cleveland players were so angry at Mays for
throwing the pitch that
killed their beloved “Chappie” that
they sent this petition to American
League President Ban Johnson telling him that they
would never play against Mays again. Despite the
tragedy, the Clevelanders went on to win the World
Series that year.
Text on the petition reads as follows:
"We,
the undersigned, members of the Cleveland Base Ball
Club, have resolved to take no part in any ball
game in which Mr. Carl Mays shall take part. We
will also back any similar action taken by the members
of any other American League Club. A copy of this
action is being sent to the players of every club,
also a copy to Mr. B.B. Johnson." 
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