The Chronicle
July 1873
Edition 3.6
Time May Be Running Out For Wright
Another Losing Season In Boston Could be End
Few men garner the respect in the popular game of baseball more then Mr. Harry Wright. His influence both as a player and a leader have helped the game reach its popularity and peaks that we enjoy today. Wright was the leader of the old Cincinnati clubs that barn stormed the nation and brought excitement to thousands.
Boston was ecstatic to have the man take over their ballclub in 1871 as promises of championships and high level baseball were the talk and anticipation of the newly formed Red Stockings. Harry brought his younger brother to the new club, George, and others like Albert Spalding and Ezra Sutton were sure to be the team to beat.
The first two seasons the club finished even on their record with a 46-46 record. Average however was not the expectation and fans of the city and team became frustrated while the manager preached patience. It seemed like all was coming to a head as we came into the 1873 season especially after rival Philadelphia had just won the championship.
The Red Stockings sit at 15-20 in last place in the American League as July comes to an end. Although the team is first in batting average, pitchers Spalding and Jim Britt, as well as the team defense, have just given away too many games. The promise of glory days and a winner have quickly faded away.
Wright remains silent over the summer months. But now many wonder if the baseball perfectionist is feeling the pressure and is thinking of hanging things up to give way to someone new. Fans seem to like the idea as they crave for a winner in what appears to be a disappointing setting where wins and losses can change a legacy in a moment.
Few if anyone expect the Red Stockings to finish the season strong.
Chicago Plans To Return Next Season
Baltimore Club Leading NL In Meantime
Playing out of Middlestown last season, the original Chicago White Stockings saw their season fall through the cracks in the second half. The club longed to return home to the city by the lake after the long rebuild after the great fire It now appears that 1874 will be that year, when the White Stockings come home.
This year the Chicago club is playing out a one year lease in Baltimore and have played some of the best football in the league going 25-11 and holding a clean 4 game lead in the National League. Charlie Pabor's club however knows what it means to have a big lead and lose it as the heartbreak of last season remains. Cap Anson is having another excellent season and starter Al Pratt seems as confident as ever going 13-2 with a 2.45 ERA.
"We need to finish strong" says manager Pabor "Every game needs to be important to win such a difficult league. We love the support here in Baltimore and our hearts remain with our faithful back in Chicago"
It would be quite storybook if the team does return to their home in Chicago next season as league champions.