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ATHLETICS PREVAIL IN SLUGFEST BUT LOSE GROH TO BROKEN ELBOW
8–7 Victory Over Indians Marred by Serious Injury to Star Third Baseman
By Charles H. Wentworth, Sporting Times
May 18th 1918
The Philadelphia Athletics continued their strong pursuit of the American League leaders this afternoon with a hard-fought 8 to 7 triumph over the Cleveland Indians. Yet while the ledger will show another victory, the day carried a heavy price, as third baseman Heinie Groh was lost to injury in a distressing collision upon the base paths.
Groh, who has been among the club’s brightest lights this season, had recorded a single in his lone appearance at the plate. Later, in an effort to advance from first to second, he was compelled to slide in a close play at the bag. In doing so he collided with the Cleveland second baseman as the throw arrived. The umpire ruled him out, but attention quickly shifted from the decision to the fallen runner, who was slow to rise and visibly favoring his arm once he gained his feet.
The training staff hastened to his side and escorted him from the field for examination. When Groh failed to reappear at his position for the start of the second inning, the assembled patrons feared the worst.
For the season, Groh has been in splendid form, batting .364 with 9 runs batted in and 24 runs scored. His absence leaves a notable void in both the batting order and the infield alignment.
After the contest, somber news emerged from the Athletics’ quarters. The injury has been diagnosed as a broken bone in the elbow, with an expected recovery period of eight months.
“It pains me more to leave the fellows than anything else,” Groh said quietly. “I was only trying to gain the bag, and it happened in a flash. I shall mend as quickly as I am able.”
Manager Frank Selee spoke gravely of the setback. “Groh has been a vital part of our early success,” he remarked. “We are pleased with the victory, but it is tempered by the loss of a man who has given us fine service. We must now find a way to carry on.”
The win advances the Athletics’ record to 18 victories against 12 defeats. Whether they can maintain their spirited chase in the absence of their star third baseman will soon be revealed in the trials ahead.
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