Narrator:  In October of _ 1969 _ , veteran centerfielder Curt Flood of the St. Louis Cardinals got word that he was to be traded to Philadelphia . The Phillies were a second - division team known for their hostility toward black players , and Flood did not wish to move his family or to leave his business interests behind .
Curt Flood: I often wondered what would I do if I were ever traded , because it had happened many , many times . It was , in quote , " part of the game . " And then suddenly , it happened to me . I was leaving one of the greatest organizations in the world to , at that time , what was probably the least - liked . And , by God , this is America . And I 'm a human being . I 'm not a piece of property . I 'm not a consignment of goods .
Narrator: Flood did not report to the Phillies ' training camp . " I am a man , " he told baseball commissioner Bowie Kuhn .
Curt Flood: " Dear Mr. Kuhn , after twelve years in the Major Leagues , I do not feel that I am a piece of property to be bought and sold irrespective of my wishes . I believe that any system which produces that result violates my basic rights as a citizen and is inconsistent with the laws of the United States . It is my desire to play baseball in 1970 , and I am capable of playing . I have received a contract from the Philadelphia club , but I believe I have the right to consider offers from other clubs before making any decisions . I therefore request that you make known to all Major League clubs my feelings in this matter , and advise them of my availability for the 1970 season . Sincerely , Curt Flood . "
Narrator: The commissioner refused to exempt him from the reserve clause . Flood refused to play , and vowed to take his case all the way to the Supreme Court . The century - old struggle between the owners and the players was approaching a climax .