Correct Answer:
C. was
The correct answer is C: was. This question tests your understanding of subject-verb agreement, specifically with indefinite pronouns. The word "each" is an indefinite pronoun that always takes a singular verb, even when it is followed by a prepositional phrase like "of the players." Although "players" is plural, it is part of the prepositional phrase and not the true subject of the sentence. The subject is "each," which refers to every single player individually.
Consider these points:
- "Each" as a singular subject: When "each" functions as the subject, or is part of a compound subject where it modifies a singular noun, the verb must be singular.
- Prepositional phrases: Words within a prepositional phrase (like "of the players") do not affect the number of the verb. The verb must agree with the actual subject.
Therefore, since "each" is singular, the singular past tense verb "was" is required. Options A ("were"), B ("have been"), and D ("are") are all plural forms and would be incorrect in this context.