The Baseball Chronicle
August 1881
Edition 10:6
Another Lost Summer
Proud Game In New York Remains Afterthought
The state of New York gets most of the credit for inventing the modern game of baseball and legendary clubs like the New York Gothams and the Brooklyn Atlantic club have left a lasting legacy. The city and its story had a set back with the Brooklyn club stopped operating and never could make it in the new profesional National League. Now the Mutuals, who have a rich history of their own, threaten to become another the anchor mediocracy.
The club did win the championship in 1874 behind the legendary play of Cal McVey as both a hitter and a pitcher. McVey is still on the roster and still playing well as a hitter, but the results from the team have been far from championship like. In fact over the past four seasons, the Mutuals have finished an average of 16 games out of first place and currently sit 16 games out.
The club made its blockbuster move in the off season trading Ned Williamson for starting arm Pud Galvin. Although Galvin has pitched fairly well, he holds a 8-14 record and continues to hold the reputation that he cant win the close ones. Williamson for his part in Philadelphia has stole 48 bases and clubbed 22 triples this year. Even a resurgence of Candy Cummings hasn't helped the club that would surprise no one if they finished in last place.
New York of course is the most populous city in the nation with the most press and the lack of results is a constant reminder for a team and an owner that are growing weary. In his first year as manager, Chris Davis has tried to stay positive, but hasn't found an easy way to score runs and compete.
Yet another enthusiastic spring has turned into a frustrating summer. The league itself would love to see success in New York, it would seem it would be best for everyone for the good of the game. Whatever the case, nothing of note will be happening in New York in 1881.
Pittsburgh Making Case
Steel City Said To Be Next Big League City
As the nation continues to evolve thanks to the railroads and new industry, population shifts on the map create new opportunities. Any big city that really wants to be recognized wants a pro baseball team to call its own.
In Pennsylvania it has always been Philadelphia that has dominated in almost all aspects. Now however the city of Pittsburgh and its booming steel industry have create a modern britling city. The city mayor Robert Lyon just took office and has made it known to team owners that Pittsburgh is ready and able to host a club.
"There would be no better home for a sports club of our national game" said Lyon, "we will provide every resource including a ball field and this offseason I will be personally making my claim.
Other cities likely in the running for a new or a relocating club include Louisville, Milwaukee, or a second team going to New York or Brooklyn. The evolution of the game and the business continues off the field.