Baseball historian Scott Longert will be at the Daviess County Public Library on January 11 to discuss his new biography, “Love and Loss: The Short Life of Ray Chapman.” The book details the life of Chapman, a Major League Baseball player tragically killed by a pitched ball in 1920, and his deep ties to Owensboro.
Chapman, who was a standout shortstop for the Cleveland Indians, visited Owensboro every winter to stay with his uncle until his untimely death, according to Longert. His visits and activities were regularly covered by the local newspaper at the time, which highlighted his participation in the winter indoor baseball league and his personal milestones, including his engagement to Kathleen Daly, daughter of the president of East Ohio Gas Company.
Longert believes Chapman’s connection to Owensboro played a significant role in shaping both his personal life and his baseball career.
“Ray was especially close to his uncle and aunt. I am sure he consulted them on decisions regarding his personal life and his baseball career,” Longert said. “From the time he was a small boy to adulthood, he visited them every summer and winter when he played professional baseball.”
Chapman became the first — and only — player in MLB history to lose his life due to an injury sustained during a game. His death in 1920 after being struck by a pitch reverberated through the sport, leading to major changes, including the introduction of protective batting helmets.
Longert’s presentation will begin at 2 p.m. in the DCPL public lounge. A book signing will follow Longert’s presentation, offering attendees the opportunity to connect with the author and take home a piece of baseball history.
The biography is available at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and independent bookstores. It can also be ordered directly from the publisher, Ohio University Press in Athens, Ohio.
