The baseball world mourned the loss of Chris Krug, a former Chicago Cubs catcher who played a pivotal role in Sandy Koufax's perfect game in 1965. Krug, who was 86, passed away on January 16 in Wildomar, California. His daughter, Chrisann Burull, confirmed the news. Krug's role in the historic game at Dodger Stadium on September 9, 1965, was somewhat overlooked, but it was significant. As the Dodgers' Lou Johnson stole third base and slid into Ron Santo, Krug's throw sailed into left field, allowing Johnson to score the only run in Koufax's perfect game. Krug's error was a pivotal moment in the game, but he was proud to be part of baseball history. Despite the mistake, he was a key player in the Cubs' 1965 and 1966 seasons and later played for the San Diego Padres in 1969. Krug's 11-year professional career included a two-year stint as manager with the New York Mets' Single-A affiliate in Little Falls, New York, where he found his true calling in managing and grooming the field. After his coaching days, he started Athletic Turfs, Inc., a company that built and installed turf for baseball fields. He worked on many fields big and small in Southern California, including Angel Stadium, but his company's claim to fame was installing the turf in Dyersville, Iowa, during the production of the 1989 movie 'Field of Dreams'. Krug's legacy extends beyond the baseball diamond, and his impact on the sport will be remembered by many. But here's where it gets controversial... Some may argue that Krug's role in the perfect game was not as significant as others, and that his error was simply a part of the game. And this is the part most people miss... Krug's passion for the sport and his dedication to improving the playing surface were what truly made him a legend in the baseball world. His passing is a reminder of the impact that one player can have on a historic game, and it invites us to reflect on the many stories that are woven into the fabric of baseball history.
