I have read just about everything printed on Cobb over the years and have listened or read countless SABR debates on the quality of the man.
The new book by Leerhsen is very enjoyable and has a ton of revisionist" theories that are fun. The truth lies somewhere in between Stump's outrageous silliness (which should not even be considered as research) and Leerhsen's new book. Neither hit it on the head.
As for Charles Alexander's tome, it is first rate in every way. Mr. Alexander is one of the finest baseball historians in the country. John Thorn often refers to this book and I do not question Mr. Thorn.
Cobb was a tremendous player and at times showed a kind and generous side and at other times showed no signs of personal self control. It appears he suffered from much of the trauma of his early life and at times a rage took control of him that he had no way of stopping.
Mr. Leerhsen's research often refers to general comments and not fact. As for the quotes from former teammates like Crawford, Sam made them when Ty was still playing and no one debated them at that time? Crawford had little ego ad actually preferred to stay out of the lime light so I doubt jealousy played a role.
With all this said I enjoyed the new book and encourage people to read but not to forget all the time and research put into a dozen earlier books save Stump's worthless treatment.
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