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amead17 · 10-15-2025, 12:10 PM

HAMILTON REACHES 2,500 HITS AS ATHLETICS FALL AGAIN, 3–1

Veteran’s Milestone Overshadowed by Third Straight Defeat

By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times
July 18, 1906 – Philadelphia, Pa.

The Philadelphia Athletics, long contenders in the American League pennant race, have stumbled of late, dropping their third straight contest this afternoon in a 3–1 defeat at home to the St. Louis Browns. The setback leaves the club with a record of 49–36, as they look to regain the form that carried them through the early summer.

Though the day brought disappointment for the team, it also carried a moment of personal triumph for veteran outfielder Billy Hamilton, who collected the 2,500th hit of his long and distinguished career. The 40-year-old, now in his nineteenth major league season, went 1-for-4, his lone hit coming in the seventh inning as the Athletics sought to mount a rally from a 3–0 deficit.

Hamilton, who began his professional career in 1888 at age 22, has appeared in 2,178 games and maintained a lifetime batting average of .322. This season, however, has proven more challenging for the aging speedster, as he is currently hitting just .216.

Speaking afterward, Hamilton accepted the milestone with characteristic modesty.

“It’s nice to reach a mark like that,” he said quietly. “But I’d have traded it for a win today. The team comes first, and we’ll find our stride again soon.”

Athletics manager Chris Smith was quick to praise his veteran’s perseverance.

“Billy’s meant a great deal to this club,” Smith noted. “He’s been through every kind of season there is, and the younger men can learn a lot from the way he carries himself. I’m certain he’s got more good days at the plate ahead.”

While the Athletics regroup from their recent slide, Hamilton’s achievement stands as a reminder of both endurance and excellence—a shining moment amid a rough stretch for Philadelphia’s pennant hopefuls.

10-15-2025, 12:10 PM	#218
amead17 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 8,860	Billy Hamilton 2500 hits HAMILTON REACHES 2,500 HITS AS ATHLETICS FALL AGAIN, 3–1 Veteran’s Milestone Overshadowed by Third Straight Defeat By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times July 18, 1906 – Philadelphia, Pa. The Philadelphia Athletics, long contenders in the American League pennant race, have stumbled of late, dropping their third straight contest this afternoon in a 3–1 defeat at home to the St. Louis Browns. The setback leaves the club with a record of 49–36, as they look to regain the form that carried them through the early summer. Though the day brought disappointment for the team, it also carried a moment of personal triumph for veteran outfielder Billy Hamilton, who collected the 2,500th hit of his long and distinguished career. The 40-year-old, now in his nineteenth major league season, went 1-for-4, his lone hit coming in the seventh inning as the Athletics sought to mount a rally from a 3–0 deficit. Hamilton, who began his professional career in 1888 at age 22, has appeared in 2,178 games and maintained a lifetime batting average of .322. This season, however, has proven more challenging for the aging speedster, as he is currently hitting just .216. Speaking afterward, Hamilton accepted the milestone with characteristic modesty. “It’s nice to reach a mark like that,” he said quietly. “But I’d have traded it for a win today. The team comes first, and we’ll find our stride again soon.” Athletics manager Chris Smith was quick to praise his veteran’s perseverance. “Billy’s meant a great deal to this club,” Smith noted. “He’s been through every kind of season there is, and the younger men can learn a lot from the way he carries himself. I’m certain he’s got more good days at the plate ahead.” While the Athletics regroup from their recent slide, Hamilton’s achievement stands as a reminder of both endurance and excellence—a shining moment amid a rough stretch for Philadelphia’s pennant hopefuls.