McLain Is ‘Dead Broke,’ Can’t Pay for Appeal

Former pitching star Denny McLain, sentenced to 23 years in prison for racketeering, extortion and drug-dealing, was declared indigent Wednesday after telling a federal judge he is unable to pay for an appeal.

“I don’t have anything left,” McLain, 41, told the court. “I have nothing. I’m dead broke.” He said his wife and four children have had to borrow money and sell two cars for less than $1,500.

The ruling by U.S. Magistrate Paul Game means that taxpayers will pay for McLain’s appeal.