In the realm of sports, there exists an unparalleled passion and enthusiasm. Bill Shankly, the revered Liverpool manager, once proclaimed that football surpassed matters of life and death. Such sentiments are echoed by the esteemed coach Arrigo Sacchi, who regards football as paramount among life’s trivialities. While spectators often feel their existence hinges on the outcome of important games, there was a time in 20th-century America when this notion became a chilling reality for a group of prisoners.
Unveiling an Unforgettable Story
In the compelling book “The Death Row All Stars: A Story of Baseball, Corruption, and Murder,” co-authors Howard Kazanjian and Chris Enss chronicle an extraordinary chapter in American history. The tale revolves around the Wyoming State Penitentiary, where inmates were allowed to participate in a baseball team. Excelling in the sport could potentially reduce their sentences, more like a casino bonuses, while failure would bring them face-to-face with the ultimate consequence: the death penalty. Although the team only played four games, their story is one of exquisite excitement and intrigue.
Genesis of Hope
The inception of this remarkable journey occurred in April 1911 when Wyoming outlawed the inhumane treatment of prisoners. Appointed as the new warden, Felix Alston, former sheriff of Big Horn County, implemented sweeping reforms to improve conditions. Alston’s compassionate approach introduced a road-building program, inmate exercise, and even a baseball team.
The Wyoming State Penitentiary All-Stars
Dubbed the Wyoming State Penitentiary All-Stars, the team took to the field outside the prison on July 18, 1911. Their inaugural opponents were the formidable Wyoming Supply Company Juniors, a prominent local team. The All-Stars’ roster included a forger, three murderers, an equal number of rapists, and five thieves. Among them, Joseph Seng emerged as the star player, incarcerated for the murder of his lover’s husband. Seng’s stellar performance, including two home runs and a grand slam, led the prisoners to a resounding 11-1 victory.
A Trilogy of Triumph
Throughout their brief existence, the All-Stars played four games, all against the Wyoming Supply Company Juniors. Unsurprisingly, these matchups generated immense interest not only among the local community but also among journalists nationwide. The Washington Post, in an article titled “Slayer Scores Home Runs,” lauded the players not only for their participation but also for conducting themselves with remarkable professionalism. As reported by the Carbon County Journal, despite facing a death sentence, Seng played an exemplary game and was planning to petition the governor for a commutation of his sentence.
Triumphs, Gambles, and the Ultimate Demise
The All-Stars triumphed in their second and third games, with Seng consistently showcasing his skills at the plate. However, rumors swirled within the prison that Seng’s execution had been delayed due to his indispensability to the baseball team. These rumors gained credibility when Seng survived his scheduled execution date on August 22, 1912. The All-Stars concluded their campaign on August 29, securing yet another victory. Despite discussions of a potential return in the future, Warden Alston soon shifted focus to an education program. Sadly, with Seng’s execution on May 24, 1912, the dream of continuing the baseball tradition died, marking the end of an era.
Unraveling the Gambling Conspiracy
The team’s captain, George Saban, a convicted murderer with a unique arrangement allowing him to leave the prison, played a pivotal role in the team’s downfall. Saban engaged in illicit gambling activities, leveraging insider information to manipulate bets on the All-Stars’ games. This drew the attention of Otto Gramm, the former prison commander, who informed Wyoming Senator Francis Warren about Saban’s illegal betting endeavors. As gambling rumors proliferated, Governor Carey initiated a crackdown on gambling, which led to the All-Stars’ baseball venture’s cessation.
Conclusion
The Wyoming State Penitentiary All-Stars’ journey remains etched in history as a tale of peril and redemption. The players faced an unimaginable gamble, with victory potentially extending their lives while failure could hasten their demise. Amidst this gripping narrative, the shadow of gambling cast a dark cloud, eventually ending the team’s extraordinary chapter. Nevertheless, the memory of their courage and determination endures, reminding us of the indomitable spirit found even within the confines of death row.
