Quote:
Originally Posted by DanP
The old-timers didn't grow up playing organized baseball from the 6 years old. They didn't play 100 games in a single little league season (or even play little league), they didn't play year round in high school and college, they were much smaller and weaker than today's players, they didn't face competition from all over the world, there wasn't anywhere near the financial incentive there is today to become a great player, the hitters didn't have to face relief specialists starting from the 6th inning, the hitters never saw a slider, etc. etc.
Dan
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In fact, back then, kids who played sports played almost nothing BUT baseball spring, summer, and fall. Every small town had its own semi pro or pro team, and many factories and clubs played baseball, too. As for their size and strength, it is a factor in athletics. but not the only factor in the game of baseball. The great players were both great physical specimens (e.g. Wagner and Ruth) and highly skilled baseball players. As for relief pitching, it's a solid point in your favor. Many starters burned out their arms trying to go hard the whole game. But as for the slider, it is more than made up for by the spitball, the emery ball, and the simple fact that they used the same ball for entire games. The old, game used ball is a dirty, rough item.