Death on the Diamond

Owner and manager of the St. Louis Cardinals, Pop fights to keep the club clean and financially afloat. He navigates gambling pressures while striving to secure a pennant, balancing business risk with a commitment to integrity.

Star pitcher whose talent drives the pennant chase. He faces suspicion over glove tampering, endures pressure from rivals and teammates alike, and becomes a focal point for those hoping to manipulate the outcome.

Pop’s daughter and team secretary who becomes involved with Larry. She advocates for the team, balances personal feelings with professional duties, and plays a key role in keeping the players focused on winning cleanly.

Investigative newspaperman pursuing the gambling story. His reporting sharpens the focus on Karnes's scheme and helps rally support to protect the team from corrupt influence.

A major gambler who masterminds attempts to fix games and profit from the volatility of the pennant race. He lurks in the stands, coordinating with henchmen to disrupt the Cardinals' success.

Catcher who endures taunts and intimidation, serving as a steady, loyal presence in the clubhouse and a key ally in the fight against the gambling plot.

Teammate and fan favorite who helps uncover glove tampering and contributes to the crew’s resolve to prove the team's integrity.

Cardinals teammate who participates in the season's tensions and supports the pursuit of a rightful pennant, even as personal frictions emerge.

Pitcher whose murder shocks the team and intensifies the investigation into who is orchestrating the crime. His death accelerates the pursuit of truth.

Umpire with a notable nickname who becomes entangled in the plot and ultimately helps reveal the conspiracy behind the tampering and threats.

Trainer whose jealousy and ambitions pull him into the scheme to gain control of the team, exposing the darker side of competition.

Security figure in the NL setting, his presence underscores the enforcement of order as the investigation into the plot unfolds.

Rival owner figure connected to the broader power struggle over the team; his hidden influence frames much of the season's tension.