Tony Lucadello, former Phillies scout

[splitterpfj]

This man scouted a close friend of mine back in the eighties. The Phils drafted Jeff in '87 (something like the 25th round) he chose not to sign.

 

As the '89 draft was approaching, Tony came to see Jeff, had him throw off a mound for him, and told him he was going to see that he was drafted again...if Jeff promised he would sign.

 

Jeff did promise, but then out of nowhere, without explanation, Tony shot himself a few days later. The scout's life was over, the young player returned to our hometown where he lives to this day.

 

sports.espn.go.com/espn/eticket/story?page=lucadello

[deeswan]

splitter, just wanted to say thanks for pointing that story out, as I really enjoyed it. Would be interested in picking up the book mentioned in the article, if anyone might know where to get a copy.

[splitterpfj]

The man signed Ernie Banks for the Cubs, and Mike Schmidt for the Phillies, then wound up a suicide as the Phillies were letting him go and his body was wearing out.

 

I'd like to find that book too.

[hawing]

My library owns a copy of the book:

 

Prophet of the sandlots : journeys with a major league scout

(Mark Winegardner is the author)

 

If you don't find a copy to purchase anywhere, or are interested in reading but not purchasing, you can borrow our copy. If this interests you, send a message to my inbox and I will tell you more.

[Southern Leaguer]

I recently got the book and it's a good read. If I had read it back when it first came out and my sons were 13 and 9, I would have probably have one of those walls in my backyard.