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BROWNS OUTLAST WHITE SOX IN 13 INNINGS, BUT LOSE LLOYD TO SEASON-ENDING INJURY
Hard-Fought 8–5 Triumph Marred by Shortstop’s Torn Labrum
By George F. Winthrop, Sporting Times
July 1st 1918
The St. Louis Browns continue their determined pursuit of the American League pennant, securing a stirring 8 to 5 victory in thirteen innings over the Chicago White Sox upon the latter’s grounds this afternoon. Yet the extended triumph, won through grit and perseverance, was clouded by the grave loss of shortstop John Henry Lloyd.
Locked in a tight contest that demanded every ounce of endurance, the Browns ultimately prevailed to maintain pressure upon the league-leading Philadelphia Athletics. The victory lifts St. Louis to a record of 41 wins against 31 defeats, keeping them firmly in the thick of the race.
Lloyd had been enjoying a productive day at the plate, collecting two hits in four at-bats and driving in a run. His afternoon, however, came to an abrupt and unfortunate conclusion in the eighth inning. After singling and taking his place at first base, Lloyd was forced to advance when Beals Becker struck into a fielder’s choice. With no alternative but to press hard toward second, Lloyd charged as the throw arrived. The second baseman held his ground, and the two men collided sharply at the bag as Lloyd was tagged out.
The impact left Lloyd slow to rise. When he did regain his feet, he was observed clutching his shoulder. The training staff hurried to the scene and assisted him from the field for examination. The seriousness of the situation became evident when Lloyd failed to return to his position for the bottom half of the inning.
For the season, Lloyd has been a cornerstone of the Browns’ attack, batting a robust .333 with 40 runs scored and 36 runs batted in — figures that underscore the magnitude of his loss.
After the game, somber news emerged from the Browns’ quarters. Lloyd has suffered a torn labrum and will require four months of recovery, bringing his season to a premature end.
“I was only striving to do my duty and take the base,” Lloyd said afterward. “It happened in an instant. I regret leaving the fellows at such a time, but I shall mend and lend what support I can.”
Manager Harry Salisbury spoke gravely. “John Henry has been invaluable to this club,” he remarked. “His bat and his presence in the field have meant much to our standing. We are proud of the fight shown today, yet we feel deeply the loss of so fine a player.”
Thus the Browns depart Chicago with a hard-earned victory, though the cost of the day’s success may yet weigh heavily upon their pennant aspirations.
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