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July 8, 1979 The Cleveland Indians said Saturday outfielder George Hendrick has been fined and probably would be benched temporarily for his sloppy play against the California Angels Friday night. Hendrick had let a Leroy Stanton catchable ball fall in front of him that allowed the tying run to score in the 9th. Int he 11th when he sacrificed to move Buddy Bell and Walter Williams over, Mike Epstein had let his bunt roll and had Hendrick hustled he would have easily beat him to first. The Indians would prevail 8-7 two batters later on a Charlie Spikes walk-off Single.
Aspromonte was very upset at Hendrick, “There will be action taken” he hissed,”you can bet your life on that.” There was a heated close-door meeting in the club house after the game.
A club spokesman declined to say how much Hendrick had been fined, but reports were that Manager Ken Aspromonte hit him with a $300 penalty.
Hendrick was dubbed “Silent George” for his uneasiness in talking to the media. He often said that when he had something to say, he would say it. “Man, I gave up caring about what the world thinks about George Hendrick a long time ago,” he said. “The people only believe what they read and what they want to believe. I’m happy the way I am. I have my friends and family, and that’s the way it’s going to stay.” He played his outfield position with an easy, effortless gait. Some characterized his play as nonchalant or lazy, while others believed that he quickly learned how to position himself in the outfield, so consequently had less ground to cover. At times he was criticized for “lollipop” throws to the cutoff man.
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