Ford Frick

Ford Frick – Life, Career & Memorable Insights

Explore the life of Ford Christopher Frick (1894–1978), American sportswriter turned baseball executive. From journalism to Commissioner of Major League Baseball, his influence shaped the game—and his words left a lasting mark.

Introduction

Ford Frick is best known as the third Commissioner of Major League Baseball (serving 1951–1965). Before that, he was a sportswriter, broadcaster, and President of the National League. His stewardship spanned a period of expansion, media evolution, and challenges in America’s pastime. This article delves into his life, career, legacy, and a selection of his notable quotes.

Early Life and Family

Ford Christopher Frick was born on December 19, 1894, near Wawaka, Indiana.

He grew up on a farm and attended high school in Rome City, Indiana.

He later studied at DePauw University, where he played baseball (first base) and ran track. He graduated in 1915.

In 1916, he married Eleanor Cowing.

Early Career: Journalist, Teacher & Broadcaster

After college, Frick first worked as a teacher in Colorado Springs and for a brief period at Colorado College.

Simultaneously, he pursued journalism—writing for local papers such as The Gazette and Evening Telegraph in Colorado.

In 1922, Frick moved to New York to join the New York American, covering baseball and general sports.

He also took roles in radio broadcasting (calling games) starting in the late 1920s or early 1930s.

During his journalism period, he ghost-wrote articles under Babe Ruth’s name—strengthening his ties in the baseball world.

Rise in Baseball Administration

National League President

In February 1934, Frick became public relations director of the National League (NL). Soon thereafter, he succeeded John Heydler as President of the National League.

During his NL presidency, he played a key role in founding the Baseball Hall of Fame — working with media leaders and the Baseball Writers’ Association to realize the Cooperstown shrine.

Frick also confronted issues like criticism from star players (e.g. Dizzy Dean) and questions around integration. For instance, when some players or owners resisted Jackie Robinson’s breaking of the color barrier, Frick threatened suspension for dissenters.

Commissioner of Major League Baseball

On September 20, 1951, Frick took office as the 3rd Commissioner of Major League Baseball, succeeding Happy Chandler.

His tenure lasted until November 16, 1965.

Under his commissionership:

• MLB expanded, adding new teams in both the American and National Leagues.

• The regular season schedule was lengthened (from 154 to 162 games) to accommodate expansion.

• He managed contentious issues such as ballot stuffing in All-Star voting: In 1957, to correct fan ballot abuses, he overruled the fan vote and removed two Cincinnati Reds from the NL starting lineup.

• He confronted pressure from Congress about MLB’s antitrust exemption.

• He attempted to address how Roger Maris’s 61 home run season in 1961 should be recorded relative to Babe Ruth’s 60 in a shorter season; this led to the infamous "asterisk" controversy.

Some critics viewed his approach as too passive; he was sometimes portrayed as a “caretaker” rather than a forceful leader.

Later Life & Legacy

After resigning as commissioner, Frick remained engaged with baseball. He served on the Veterans Committee and was chairman of the Hall of Fame board.

In 1970, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame via the Veterans Committee.

Upon his death on April 8, 1978 in Bronxville, New York, MLB Commissioner Bowie Kuhn eulogized him as a man who “brought the game integrity, dedication and a happy tranquility far removed from the turbulence of today.”

In honor of his contributions, the Ford C. Frick Award was established in 1978 by the Baseball Hall of Fame. It is presented annually to a broadcaster who has made “major contributions to baseball.”

Personality & Strengths vs Criticisms

Strengths & Attributes:

• Deep respect for tradition and integrity in baseball.

• Skilled communicator (journalist and broadcaster) who understood media’s role in sports.

• Ability to mediate delicate issues (e.g. players' labor unrest, integration).

• Steady hand during periods of growth and change.

Criticisms & Limitations:

• Seen by some as too passive or hands-off in pivotal moments—some decisions left unresolved or minimally enforced.

• The handling of the Maris-Ruth record issue (asterisk controversy) remains controversial in baseball lore.

• Perceived by some as favoring the National League in certain disputes.

Famous Quotes of Ford Frick

Here are some notable quotations attributed to Ford Frick:

• “Keep your temper. A decision made in anger is never sound.”

• “Hear only the things you should hear – be deaf to others.”

• “Avoid sarcasm. Don’t insist on the last word.”

• “Take pride in your work at all times. Remember, respect for an umpire is created off the field as well as on.”

• “Keep all your personalities out of your work. Forget and forgive.”

• “Review your work. You will find, if you are honest, that 90% of the trouble is traceable to loafing.”

• “Never charge a player and, above all, no pointing your finger or yelling.”

• “I’d hate this to get out but I really like opera.”

These reflect values of composure, fairness, humility, and accountability.

Lessons & Influence

1. Bridge media and governance.
   Frick’s background in journalism and broadcasting enriched his understanding of how baseball is perceived and covered, which informed his administrative decisions.

2. Respect tradition, but adapt.
   He tried to balance preserving baseball’s identity with overseeing expansion, schedule changes, and media growth.

3. Tone matters.
   His frequent admonitions to control temper, avoid sarcasm, and separate personality from work highlight the importance of professionalism in leadership.

4. Legacy beyond tenure.
   Through the Ford C. Frick Award and his Hall of Fame induction, his name continues to resonate in baseball circles.

Conclusion

Ford Christopher Frick’s journey—from rural Indiana to the top of baseball’s leadership—reveals a man who shaped the sport not through flamboyant edicts but through thoughtful stewardship. He spanned eras of baseball’s growth, navigated controversies, and sought to uphold the integrity of America’s pastime. His legacy lives on through the broadcasters honored in his name and the structural shifts he helped oversee.