Books and articles about Shag Crawford

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Crawford caught briefly in the Phillies' organization, then umpired around the Philadelphia area to stay in the game. His slow, deliberate, strong calls and low crouch while touching the catcher's back with his hands characterized his umpiring style. One of the founders of the ML Umpires' Association, Crawford was asked to work the 1975 WS by umpire supervisor Fred Fleig. Shag refused because it had been agreed that the Series would use a rotation system for umpires. According to Crawford, he was fired for his refusal. "They said they retired me," he said, "but in my personal opinion, they dumped me." (RTM)

FROM THE BASEBALL CHRONOLOGY » October 15, 1969: A memorable World Series game pits Tom Seaver against Mike Cuellar. RF Ron Swoboda's questionable dive at Brooks Robinson's sinking liner with runners at 1B and 3B in the 9th inning results in a brilliant catch, even though Frank Robinson tags and scores the tying run. In the 10th, Mets pinch-hitter J.C. Martin, running illegally inside the 1B line after a bunt, is hit on the wrist by P Pete Richert's errant throw, enabling pinch runner Rod Gaspar to score from second as the Mets win 2–1. The game is enlivened by Earl Weaver getting thrown out after protesting ball and strike calls by Shag Crawford. Earl is the 3rd manager to leave early in a World Series, but the first since 1935. » April 15, 2000: Pedro Martinez (7 IP, five H, two R/ER, one BB, nine SO) paces the Red Sox to a 14–2 win over the A's Tim Hudson. Carl Everett had three hits, including two doubles, and four RBI. Three sons of former major-league umpires work the game: Jerry (son of Shag) Crawford, Mike (son of Lou) DiMuro and Brian (son of Tom) Gorman.