Offered here is the highest graded August 19,1968 issue of Sports Illustrated with Curt Flood gracing the cover.
Flood's legacy extends far beyond his impressive baseball statistics. With three All-Star appearances, seven consecutive Gold Glove awards, and a batting average over .300 in six seasons, Flood was a force to be reckoned with on the field.
His prowess as a hitter was evident in his league-leading hits in 1964, as well as his multiple seasons leading the National League in singles. Additionally, Flood's defensive abilities were unmatched, leading the league in putouts as a center fielder four times and boasting a remarkable fielding percentage three times.
Flood's impact on the game, however, transcended his performance on the diamond. In 1969, he made a bold and courageous stand against the established order of baseball. When faced with a trade he deemed unfavorable, Flood refused to accept it, sparking a legal battle that would forever alter the sport's labor landscape.
Taking his case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, Flood sought to challenge baseball's reserve clause, which effectively bound players to their teams indefinitely. Although his legal challenge ultimately fell short, it ignited a fire within the hearts of players across the league, inspiring them to fight for their rights and the freedom to choose their own destinies.
Flood's noble quest for justice and equity resonated with athletes and fans alike, galvanizing the movement towards free agency in professional sports. His courageous stance paved the way for future generations of players to enjoy the benefits of unrestricted movement and fair compensation.