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Dick Moss, the Union Lawyer Who Changed Baseball Forever, Passes Away at 93

The baseball world is mourning the loss of Dick Moss, a legendary union lawyer who played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Major League Baseball. Moss, who passed away at the age of 93, was instrumental in the landmark arbitration case that led to the creation of free agency for MLB players almost half a century ago.

Born in 1931, Moss began his career working for the Pennsylvania state government before joining the United Steelworkers of America, where he met and formed a close bond with union chief Marvin Miller. Together, Moss and Miller fought tirelessly for the rights of players, eventually leading to the historic arbitration case involving Dodgers pitcher Andy Messersmith.

The 1975 case, argued by Moss, challenged the restrictive reserve clause that had kept players under team control for decades. Thanks to Moss’s persuasive arguments, arbitrator Peter Seitz ruled in favor of the players, opening the door to free agency in baseball. This decision, upheld in federal court in 1976, paved the way for the collective bargaining agreement between MLB and the players’ union.

Moss’s impact on the game extended beyond the courtroom. As an agent, he represented some of the biggest names in baseball, including Fernando Valenzuela, Nolan Ryan, and Gary Carter. Moss’s negotiating skills and dedication to his clients helped pave the way for million-dollar contracts in baseball, forever changing the financial landscape of the sport.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Moss was known for his warm personality and dedication to his family. Survived by his wife and daughter, Moss leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of baseball and labor relations.

As we reflect on Moss’s life and legacy, we remember a man whose passion and commitment changed the game of baseball for the better. His impact will be felt for generations to come, a true testament to his enduring influence on the sport he loved.

Dick Moss, a key figure in the fight for free agency in Major League Baseball (MLB), passed away at the age of 93. His contributions to the game and the players cannot be understated. Let’s delve deeper into the life and legacy of Dick Moss, and how he helped bring about free agency for MLB players.

### Who was Dick Moss?

Dick Moss was a sports attorney who played a pivotal role in the fight for free agency in MLB. He was a fierce advocate for the rights of players and worked tirelessly to ensure they were treated fairly by team owners. Moss was known for his sharp legal mind and his unwavering dedication to the cause of player empowerment.

### What is free agency in MLB?

Free agency in MLB refers to the ability of players to negotiate and sign contracts with any team of their choosing once their current contract expires. Before free agency, players were bound to their team for their entire career unless they were traded or released. This limited their earning potential and bargaining power. Moss recognized the injustice of this system and set out to change it.

### How did Dick Moss help bring about free agency?

Moss was instrumental in representing players in legal battles against the MLB owners. He fought tirelessly to overturn the reserve clause, which bound players to their teams indefinitely. Moss argued that this clause violated antitrust laws and deprived players of their rights. His efforts eventually led to the landmark decision in the case of Messersmith v. McNally, which paved the way for free agency in MLB.

### What was the impact of free agency on MLB players?

Free agency revolutionized the way players were compensated and treated in MLB. It allowed players to negotiate for fair market value for their services and choose the team that offered them the best opportunity. This led to a significant increase in player salaries and improved working conditions. Free agency also empowered players to have more control over their careers and futures.

### What is Dick Moss’s legacy in MLB?

Dick Moss’s legacy in MLB is one of courage, determination, and advocacy. He was a trailblazer who fought for the rights of players at a time when they had little power or say in their own careers. Moss’s efforts paved the way for future generations of players to benefit from free agency and the protections it provided. His impact on the game and the players will be felt for years to come.

In conclusion, Dick Moss was a true champion for player rights in MLB. His legacy will live on in the form of free agency, which continues to benefit players to this day. Moss’s dedication and passion for the game and its players will always be remembered and celebrated. Rest in peace, Dick Moss.

(Source: [MLB.com](https://www.mlb.com/))

(Source: [ESPN](https://www.espn.com/mlb/))

(Source: [Sports Illustrated](https://www.si.com/mlb/))