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Eight Men Out

The Black Sox and the 1919 World Series

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Eight Men Out

Written by: Eliot Asinof
Narrated by: Harold N. Cropp
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About this listen

In 1919, American headlines proclaimed the fix and cover-up of the World Series as "the most gigantic sporting swindle in the history of America." In this painstaking review, Eliot Asinof has reconstructed the entire scene-by-scene story of the scandal, in which eight Chicago White Sox players arranged with the nation’s leading gamblers to throw the series to Cincinnati. Asinof vividly describes the tense meetings, the hitches in the conniving, the actual plays in which the Series was thrown, the Grand Jury indictment, and the famous 1921 trial. Moving behind the scenes, he perceptively examines the backgrounds and motives of the players and the conditions that made the improbable fix all too possible. Far more than a superbly told baseball story, this compelling American drama will appeal to all those interested in American popular culture.

©1963 Eliot Asinof (P)2000 Blackstone Audio, Inc. Baseball & Softball Sports

What the critics say

"Dramatic detail…an admirable journalistic feat!" ( New York Times)
"As thrilling as a cops and robbers tome!" ( Boston Globe)
"The most thorough investigation of the Black Sox scandal on record…a vividly, excitingly written book." ( Chicago Tribune)
All stars
Most Relevant
Considering that Court Transcripts have disappeared, this is a remarkable book. Baseball researcher Eliot Asinof largely collates media reports to provide a surprisingly complete exposé of one of the most incredible incidents in professional sport.
His writing style is perhaps a little bit dramatic.. but sounds strikingly authentic - and drives a well-described engrossing narrative. The Game-by-Game (and often Inning-by-Inning) descriptions of on-the-field action with hypothetical dialogue are cinematic, for example.
This book is extremely readable.

Unfortunately, reader Harold N. Cropp can't elevate himself to the quality of the text. To be certain, Cropp's diction, timbre, and cadence are beyond reproach - but he reads too slowly (set playback speed at 1.20X for the most comfortable experience), doesn't even feign an attempt at voice-acting - even where indicated - and reads perfunctorily (he's clearly reading from a volume open on his lap).

If you can get this book in a text iteration (paper or eBook), do so. It's an interesting and informative documentary effort. As it stands, this audiobook version merits 7.5 stars out of 10 (easily worth your time if offered as a 'Plus' selection.. but unlikely worth a Credit).

Painstakingly Researched

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One of the best book that i have ever bought on audible. The work of a lifetime for Elliot Asinov. Great work also by the narrator, Harold N. Cropp. A must have for baseball history lover.

A masterpiece by Mr Asinof

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This book is a great book to listen to and is a great story. Kept me rivited the entire time. Historically accurate and gives great baseball details. Great for the baseball fanatic and anyone who likes a great story.

Great book. Must hear

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