Notes from history

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SPORTING TIMES — September 8, 1912
By Samuel T. Kingsley

NAPS FALL LATE IN CHICAGO; CORBETT SIDELINED BY SHOULDER INJURY

CHICAGO — The Cleveland Naps’ long and trying campaign took another hard turn this afternoon, as they dropped a close 2–1 decision to the Chicago White Sox. The loss, sealed by a walk-off blow in the bottom of the ninth, leaves Cleveland at 59–75 for the season.

Though the Naps fought gamely throughout, misfortune struck in the eighth inning when dependable relief man Joe Corbett was forced from the contest with an injury. Corbett had been summoned to open the frame after Irv Young was pinch hit for, and he recorded one out before abruptly halting mid-delivery, clutching at his shoulder in clear distress. The club’s medical staff arrived swiftly and escorted him from the field for examination.

After the game, the news was grim: Corbett has been diagnosed with shoulder inflammation and is expected to miss three months—effectively ending his year. In Sunday’s brief appearance, he faced two batters, allowing no hits. For the season, the right-hander has appeared in 52 games, posting a 7–9 record and a 5.56 earned-run average.

Given the heavy load he has shouldered throughout the summer, questions naturally arose as to whether the strain of frequent use played a part.

Corbett, speaking quietly but firmly, offered:
“I’ve taken the ball whenever the club has asked, and maybe the arm finally had enough. I wish I could finish the season with the boys, but all I can do now is heal up and be ready to go again.”

Manager José Ramirez expressed both concern and respect for his reliever’s effort:
“Joe’s been one of the hardest-worked men on this club, and he’s answered every call. When a fellow puts in that kind of service, sometimes the body pushes back. We’ll miss him these last weeks, no doubt about it.”

For a Naps team already worn down by a difficult summer, Corbett’s loss is another burden to bear as the season winds toward its close.

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SPORTING TIMES — September 13, 1912
By Arthur H. Leland

CHICK STAHL REACHES 2,500 HITS AS RED SOX EDGE BROWNS, 3–2

ST. LOUIS — Veteran center fielder Chick Stahl added another shining gem to his storied career this afternoon, collecting his 2,500th base hit in Boston’s 3–2 triumph over the St. Louis Browns. The victory keeps the Red Sox firmly in the pennant chase with a season mark of 73–64.

Stahl wasted no time reaching the milestone. In the top of the first inning he drove a ringing double into left-center field, a clean, authoritative blow that brought the Boston bench to its feet. Though he was stranded on the bases, the accomplishment stood tall on a day when every run proved precious.

The 35-year-old veteran finished 1-for-3 with a walk. His batting mark of .356 this season continues to soar well above his already impressive career average, now sitting at .309. Stahl, who began his major league journey in 1897 and came to Boston in 1901, remains a steadying presence at the heart of the club’s attack.

Stahl, ever modest, spoke briefly after the game:
“I’m grateful just to still be able to help this club win ball games. The hits come one at a time, and you don’t think much of them until someone tells you the count. I’m proud of it, but the pennant is what matters now.”

Red Sox manager Bob Lozano praised his veteran outfielder’s achievement and leadership:
“Chick’s been the backbone of this club for years. A man doesn’t reach 2,500 hits by accident. It’s talent, yes, but it’s also grit and consistency. We’re chasing something big here, and having him out there every day gives the whole club confidence.”

Though the milestone belonged to Stahl, the victory belonged to Boston — another step forward in a tightening September race.

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SPORTING TIMES — September 14, 1912
By George F. Winthrop

JACKSON’S REMARKABLE 46-GAME HITTING STREAK ENDS AS DODGERS FALL, 3–2

BROOKLYN — The Dodgers’ spirited pennant chase suffered a narrow setback this afternoon, but the larger story was the end of one of the most extraordinary batting feats the National League has seen in years. Joe Jackson, Brooklyn’s brilliant young right fielder, saw his remarkable 46-game hitting streak halted in a 3–2 loss to the Pittsburgh club.

Jackson’s streak began on July 19th and carried uninterrupted through nearly two months of play. In those 46 contests he battered opposing pitching to the tune of 80 hits, lifting his season average to a glittering .404. During the stretch he crossed the plate 30 times and drove in 43 runs, becoming the engine of the Dodgers’ offense at a moment when every game holds pennant weight.

Today, however, his luck and precision met their match. Pittsburgh held him in check, and while the Dodgers mounted a late push, they fell just short. Brooklyn now stands at 78–58 as the race enters its final, breathless weeks.

Jackson, calm even in the face of the streak’s end, spoke with characteristic humility:
“I’m just trying to put good wood on the ball every day. The streak was a fine run, but I never stepped to the plate thinking about numbers. We’ve got a pennant to chase, and that’s all that matters to me now.”

Manager Ned Hanlon was generous in his praise for his young star:
“What Joe has done these past weeks is nothing short of extraordinary. You don’t see a man carry a club on his back like that very often. The streak may be over, but his importance to this team isn’t. We’ll need every ounce of his fire as we fight down the stretch.”

While the day belonged to Pittsburgh in the scorebook, the admiration of the crowd made clear that Jackson’s achievement will be remembered long after today’s result is forgotten.

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SPORTING TIMES — September 26, 1912
By Charles H. Wentworth

MATHEWSON NOTCHES 250TH CAREER VICTORY AS GIANTS BLANK BRAVES, 6–0

POLO GROUNDS, NEW YORK — With the National League pennant race tightening by the day, the New York Giants delivered a performance of poise and purpose this afternoon, dispatching the Boston Braves 6–0 behind a masterful outing from Christy Mathewson. The victory lifted the Giants to 83–63 and kept them firmly lodged in the struggle for the flag.

For Mathewson, the triumph carried special weight: it marked the 250th win of his illustrious career.

The Giants’ bats provided support throughout, striking in steady fashion to give their ace the breathing room he needed. In turn, Mathewson authored a gem—nine shutout innings, permitting only six hits and a lone walk while fanning six Boston men. The victory moved his season record to 23–11, paired with a tidy 2.85 earned run average.

Now in his thirteenth season, every one of them in New York, Mathewson’s career ledger stands at 250–181 with a gleaming 2.66 ERA. Few pitchers in any age have matched his command, consistency, or grace under the game’s heaviest pressures.

Mathewson, reserved as always, spoke modestly after the contest:
“It’s gratifying, of course, but days like this belong to the whole club. The fellows hit, the fielding was sharp, and all I needed to do was keep the ball where they could work behind me. I’m glad to have done my part.”

Manager George Davis was more expansive in his praise:
“Christy has been the backbone of this team for over a decade. Two hundred and fifty wins—it speaks for itself. He’s the kind of man who gives his club confidence every time he walks to the mound. With him leading the way, we’re very much alive in this race.”

If the Giants are to press onward toward the pennant, performances like today’s will be required—and with Mathewson in command, hope remains high at the Polo Grounds.

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SPORTING TIMES — September 30, 1912
By Samuel T. Kingsley

TY COBB SHATTERS HIS OWN SINGLE-SEASON HITS RECORD AS PHILLIES TOIL ON

PHILADELPHIA — Though the campaign has been a trying one for the Philadelphia Phillies, their brilliant young outfielder Ty Cobb has again risen above the tumult to etch his name deeper into baseball’s record rolls. With September drawing to a close, Cobb has surpassed his own single-season hits mark, collecting an astonishing 255 blows—topping the 248 he set only last year.

The hit that carried him beyond the old total came just a few days ago during the club’s 4–2 triumph on the road over the Brooklyn Dodgers, a victory the team embraced as eagerly as Cobb’s new achievement. Even at only twenty-five years of age, Cobb’s mastery at the plate continues to grow, and his latest feat suggests he is entering what may be a long and formidable prime.

While Cobb ascends, the Phillies as a whole have struggled to find their footing, standing at 74–75 as of today. Yet the club has scarcely failed to note the remarkable consistency and vigor of their star.

Cobb, ever intense yet measured in his remarks, said after today’s session:
“Records are fine, but they come from hard play day after day. I’m grateful for the mark, but I’d trade any tally if it meant we were higher in the standings. All a fellow can do is keep swinging.”

Manager Danny Lara voiced the pride felt throughout the clubhouse:
“Ty is a rare ballplayer. To break a record he himself set shows the kind of determination and talent he brings to us. We’ve had our ups and downs, but he’s been the constant we can count on. At twenty-five, he may just be getting started.”

Though the Phillies’ fortunes remain uncertain, Cobb’s brilliance ensures that each day at the yard brings a spectacle worth witnessing.

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SPORTING TIMES — October 1, 1912
By Arthur H. Leland

PENNANT RACES GO TO THE WIRE AS BOTH LEAGUES NEAR THEIR FINISH

With but a scattering of games remaining on the slate, both major leagues enter October in a state of high suspense, the pennant races still very much undecided and the prospects shifting by the day.

In the American League, only four contests remain, yet three clubs stand with a real chance to seize the flag. The Detroit Tigers retain the top position, holding a three-game margin over both the Boston Red Sox and Washington Senators. With each of the contenders facing clubs already out of the running, no team can be counted safe, nor any rival dismissed.

At the opposite end, the New York Highlanders, though still last, have shown enough vigor in September to lift themselves from possessing the worst record in either league.

The National League presents an even more stirring tableau. Five games remain, and the struggle has narrowed to two clubs: the New York Giants and Brooklyn Dodgers. The Giants hold a two-game edge, but with a final three-game set between the rivals looming, the race may yet turn sharply before the last out is recorded. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Cardinals have slipped to the basement and now bear the league’s poorest record.

MONTHLY AWARDS
American League

Top Batter: Tris Speaker, Cleveland Naps — .425, 1 home run, 7 RBI, 19 runs scored

Top Pitcher: Eustaquio Pedroso, New York Highlanders — 5–0, 1.00 ERA

Rookie: Jeff Tesreau, Philadelphia Athletics — 4–2, 1.90 ERA

National League

Top Batter: Heinie Zimmerman, Philadelphia Phillies — .371, 3 home runs, 33 RBI, 20 runs scored

Top Pitcher: Christy Mathewson, New York Giants — 5–2, 2.65 ERA

Rookie: Earl Hamilton, Brooklyn Dodgers — 4–2, 2.83 ERA

With so much undecided and the season’s final days at hand, the coming week promises drama fit for the ages. Each club must now summon its best—or watch the flag drift into another’s hands.

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SPORTING TIMES — October 7, 1912
By George F. Winthrop

TIGERS AND GIANTS CLAIM PENNANTS; WORLD SERIES SET TO BEGIN

With the final out of the regular season recorded, two fierce pennant races have at last reached their dramatic conclusions, sending the Detroit Tigers and New York Giants forward to meet in what promises to be a stirring World Series.

In the American League, the Tigers managed to hold their footing just long enough, capturing the flag by a margin of two games over the determined Boston Red Sox. The Washington Senators finished three games distant, while the St. Louis Browns closed four back. At the cellar’s edge, the New York Highlanders, though last, ended only two games behind the next club—a far cry from the dire expectations that hovered over them mid-summer.

Across the way in the National League, the Giants proved the class of the circuit, securing the pennant by three games over the persistent Brooklyn Dodgers. The Cincinnati Reds finished four behind the champions, and at the foot of the table the St. Louis Cardinals closed the campaign with the poorest record in either league.

With the standings now set, the eyes of the baseball world turn to the best-of-seven World Series between Detroit and New York.

For the Tigers, men such as Larry Doyle, Dode Paskert, and Russ Ford will shoulder the hopes of bringing the first world championship to Detroit.

For the Giants, it marks their first return to the great stage since 1907—having taken the title in both 1906 and 1907—and players like Larry Gardner, Clyde Milan, Christy Mathewson, and Hugh Bedient aim to deliver a third crown for New York.

Quotes

Tigers Manager A.J. Plascencia:
“It has been a hard road, harder than many might imagine, but these men never once let the strain bend them. We are grateful for the pennant, but we are not satisfied. The work begins anew now, and we intend to give Detroit something it has never had before—a world champion.”

Giants Manager George Davis:
“Our club has shown its mettle from April to October, and we are proud to stand atop the National League again. The Tigers are worthy opponents, no doubt, but this team remembers what it means to win a championship. We will meet the Series with clear heads and strong hearts.”

The stage is set, and the air already crackles with anticipation. The world’s baseball crown awaits.

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SPORTING TIMES — October 18, 1912
By Samuel T. Kingsley & Charles H. Wentworth

GIANTS TRIUMPH IN THRILLING SEVEN-GAME WORLD SERIES

The 1912 World Series will be remembered as one of the great spectacles of the age—a fierce, seesawing struggle in which the New York Giants and Detroit Tigers exchanged blows with unyielding fury. Only in the very last contest did the matter resolve, with the Giants at last seizing the crown, four games to three.

New York opened the proceedings with a victory, only for Detroit to strike back and level matters at 1–1. The Tigers then captured two of the next three contests upon their home grounds, pushing the Giants to the brink with a 3–2 series lead. But once the battle returned to New York, the tide shifted for good. Before fevered crowds, the Giants took the final two games, riding their home field advantage straight to the championship.

Runs came in plenty throughout the contest, and the standout among all was Larry Gardner, whose superb play earned him the honor of Series MVP. Gardner went 10-for-28, batting .357 across the seven games, while scoring nine runs and driving in four.

The Giants’ pitching staff wavered at times, yet Christy Mathewson proved stalwart, winning two of his three starts. Tacks Neuer also delivered reliably, likewise notching two victories.

For Detroit, Jake Daubert did all within mortal power, batting .417 for the series with four runs and two runs batted in. On the mound, Charley Hall secured two of Detroit’s victories, while Russ Ford accounted for the third, though the staff as a whole could not keep pace with New York in the decisive contests.

Quotes from the Champions

Larry Gardner:
“It was the hardest baseball I have ever played, and every inch was earned. I am proud of the numbers, but prouder still to have helped bring the championship back to New York.”

Giants Manager George Davis:
“This club showed its character in the last two games. When the moment demanded it, they rose. Detroit fought us at every turn, but our boys would not yield.”

Quotes from the Vanquished

Jake Daubert:
“We left everything on that field. I only wish the hits I found could have carried us those last few steps. It is a bitter thing to come so close.”

Tigers Manager A.J. Plascencia:
“My men battled with heart, but in the end our pitching could not hold firm. Still, I am proud of them. Detroit will remember this fight, even if we fell just short of the crown.”

The curtain falls on a stirring Series, and New York again stands atop the baseball world.

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SPORTING TIMES — October 19th, 1912
By Arthur H. Leland

BROOKLYN CLUB TO RESUME SUPERBAS NAME AS SEASON CLOSES

With the curtain fallen on the regular season, base ball clubs throughout the country have turned from the din of the diamond to the sober task of reflection and reckoning. In Brooklyn, that accounting has extended beyond wins and losses to the very name under which the club has taken the field.

After two seasons competing as the Brooklyn Dodgers, a title employed in both 1911 and 1912, the owners and management have resolved that the name has not struck the desired chord with the borough’s followers. Accordingly, it has been decided that the club will abandon the Dodgers appellation and return to the familiar and respected title of the Brooklyn Superbas, last used in 1910.

Those in charge of the organization explained that the change is rooted in matters of recognition and civic identity. While playing as the Dodgers, the club, they feel, failed to be embraced as a true reflection of Brooklyn itself. Under the Superbas name, however, the team was long regarded as an established and natural part of the borough’s sporting life.

Thus, as a new season looms in the distance, Brooklyn’s nine will once more carry a name closely bound to its past, in the hope that it may again strengthen the bond between club and community.

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SPORTING TIMES — October 19th, 1912
By George F. Winthrop

HIGHLANDERS MAKE CHANGE AS PEREZ RELIEVED OF DUTIES

With the regular season now at its close, the annual reckoning has begun in club offices throughout the leagues, and with it comes the familiar toll upon the ranks of management.

This autumn has been a comparatively quiet one in that regard, with only a single change of note announced. That change comes in New York, where Alfonso Perez has been dismissed from his post as manager of the New York Highlanders following a difficult campaign.

Perez had guided the Highlanders for three seasons, taking charge in 1910. During his tenure the club finished fifth, then fourth, and most recently slipped to eighth place. The front office, reviewing those results, has determined that the club has moved backward rather than forward under his leadership, and has resolved to seek a new voice in the clubhouse to direct the team’s future fortunes.

Speaking after the decision, Perez accepted the outcome with restraint. “Base ball is a game of results, and I understand the position the club has taken,” he said. “I gave the Highlanders my best work, and I wish the players and the organization nothing but success in the years ahead.”

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SPORTING TIMES — October 19th, 1912
By Charles H. Wentworth

VETERAN STARS TAKE THEIR LEAVE AS SEASON CLOSES

As another base ball season passes into the record books, the familiar and sobering procession of farewells has begun, with a number of well-known figures electing to lay aside their spikes and bring distinguished careers to a close.

Foremost among those retiring is Frank Chance, the stalwart first baseman of the Chicago Cubs. Chance concludes a long and faithful career spent entirely in a Cubs uniform, having first taken the field for Chicago in 1898. In 1,794 games he fashioned a solid batting average of .280, while crossing the plate 878 times and driving in 741 runs. His steady presence at first base has been a fixture of the National League for well over a decade.

Also bidding farewell is Bobby Wallace of the Philadelphia Athletics, whose career stretches back to 1894. Wallace broke into the game with the Cleveland Spiders, later made his mark with the St. Louis Cardinals, and joined the Athletics in 1905. Across 18 seasons he appeared in 2,327 games, compiled a .264 batting average, scored 1,147 runs, and accounted for 983 runs batted in, leaving behind a body of work that speaks to remarkable durability.

From the pitcher’s box comes the retirement of Mordecai Brown of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Though his career spanned just nine seasons, it was one of uncommon success. Brown claimed Pitcher of the Year honors in both 1908 and 1909, and finishes with a record of 176 victories against 125 defeats, an earned run average of 2.36, and 1,150 strikeouts. Injuries and a decline in form in recent seasons have brought his time in the game to an end.

The list of those departing the diamond this year does not end there. Also stepping away are Ed Abbaticchio, Harry Davis, Hobe Ferris, Danny Green, Harry Steinfeldt, Sammy Strang, Lee Tannehill, Jimmy Williams, Harry Wolverton, Nixey Callahan, Joe Corbett, Jack Cronin, Roger Denzer, Bill Donovan, Win Kellum, Ted Lewis, Chappie McFarland, Togie Pittinger, Ed Siever, Jim St. Vrain, and Bob Wicker.

Together, these men leave behind careers that have helped shape the game as it is known today, and their absence will be keenly felt as a new season approaches.

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SPORTING TIMES — October 21st, 1912
By Samuel T. Kingsley

HIGHLANDERS MOVE QUICKLY, NAME CHRIS SMITH AS NEW MANAGER

The New York Highlanders have wasted little time in securing a new guiding hand, announcing the appointment of Chris Smith, aged 57, as manager of the club.

Smith comes to the Highlanders with a wealth of experience earned during his tenure at the helm of the Philadelphia Athletics from 1904 through 1910. Those seasons were marked by sustained success, including World Series triumphs in 1904 and 1905, and only two finishes outside the first four during his seven-year stewardship. Such a record has given Highlander supporters reason to believe brighter days may yet lie ahead.

The club, having endured a difficult campaign, will look to Smith’s steady authority and proven judgment to restore order and competitiveness. His arrival is being greeted with cautious optimism by followers of the New York nine, who hope his past accomplishments can be repeated in new surroundings.

“I have taken on this post with a full understanding of the task before me,” Smith said upon his appointment. “I have seen clubs rise through patience and discipline, and I believe the Highlanders possess the material to do the same. My aim is to bring direction and confidence back to this ball club.”

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SPORTING TIMES — November 2nd, 1912
By Arthur H. Leland

BASEBALL’S BRIGHTEST HONOURED AT ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER

Last evening the annual awards dinner was held, bringing together the finest figures of the 1912 campaign as players from both major leagues were recognised for performances that marked the season as one of uncommon quality.

American League Honours

The American League’s highest individual distinction, the Most Valuable Player Award, was bestowed upon Tris Speaker of the Cleveland Naps. The gifted centre fielder proved a constant torment to opposing pitchers, amassing 209 hits, including 39 doubles, 7 triples and 9 home runs, while driving in 95 runs and crossing the plate 97 times himself. Such sustained excellence earned Speaker a unanimous selection, as he claimed all 16 first-place votes, finishing comfortably ahead of Dode Paskert of Detroit and Nap Lajoie of Philadelphia.

On the mound, the Pitcher of the Year Award went to Smokey Joe Williams of the Washington Senators, whose work throughout the season marked him as one of the league’s premier hurlers. Williams completed 39 starts, compiling a 20–18 record, striking out 201 batters in 332⅔ innings, and posting a fine 1.95 earned run average, while holding opponents to a .227 batting mark. He secured 12 first-place votes, with Ed Walsh of Boston and teammate Hank Robinson following in the balloting.

The Rookie of the Year Award was claimed by Jeff Tesreau of the Philadelphia Athletics. In his first full season, Tesreau delivered a 17–13 record, a 2.64 ERA, and 137 strikeouts across 280 innings, earning 15 of 16 first-place votes and establishing himself as a key figure in the Athletics’ staff.

National League Honours

In the National League, the Most Valuable Player Award was awarded unanimously to Ty Cobb of the Philadelphia Phillies. At just 25 years of age, Cobb produced a season for the ages, batting .412 with a .453 on-base percentage across 153 games. His remarkable totals included 263 hits, 34 doubles, 27 triples, 8 home runs, 131 runs batted in, and 143 runs scored, placing him well clear of runner-up Joe Jackson of Brooklyn and third-placed teammate Heinie Zimmerman.

The Pitcher of the Year Award was also a unanimous decision, going to Christy Mathewson of the New York Giants. Mathewson’s season featured 25 victories, 11 defeats, and a 2.72 ERA over 41 starts, during which he logged 340⅔ innings, struck out 105, and issued only 39 walks, once again affirming his place among the game’s elite.

Rounding out the National League honours, Del Pratt of the St. Louis Cardinals captured the Rookie of the Year Award with a flawless sweep of the voting. The young second baseman appeared in 151 games, batting .316, driving in 70 runs, and scoring 77 times, while collecting 30 doubles, 17 triples, and a home run in an impressive debut campaign.

Thus closed an evening devoted to the celebration of excellence, fittingly recognising those men whose performances defined the baseball season of 1912.

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SPORTING TIMES — December 12th, 1912
By George F. Winthrop

WINTER DEALS COME EARLY AS CLUBS MOVE SWIFTLY TO SHAPE 1913 ROSTERS

The close of the 1912 season has brought little in the way of quiet repose, for the trade and free-agent market sprang to life at an unusually early date as clubs across both leagues moved promptly to strengthen their ranks for the coming campaign. From late October through November, a steady stream of transactions has reshaped many rosters and set the tone for a busy winter.

The first notable exchange came on October 21st, when the Brooklyn Superbas sent right-hander Jeff Pfeffer, aged 24, and young left-hander Earl Hamilton, 21, to the Cleveland Naps in return for veteran second baseman Johnny Evers, now 31. Hamilton posted a 19–16 record with a 4.32 ERA last season, while Evers arrives in Cleveland after batting .324 across 151 games, bringing proven consistency to the infield.

Three days later, on October 24th, the Pittsburgh Pirates dealt Denney Wilie, a 22-year-old right fielder, and Dick Cotter, a 23-year-old catcher, to the Philadelphia Phillies. Heading the other way was Charlie Smith, the 32-year-old right-hander who worked 38 starts, finishing 12–12 with a 4.32 ERA last season.

The Cleveland Naps were again active on October 25th, trading veteran centre fielder Bob Ganley, 37, to the Washington Senators in exchange for Biff Schaller, a 23-year-old left fielder. Ganley appeared in 70 games last season, including six starts, batting .212.

On October 31st, Pittsburgh returned to the trading table, sending Charlie Babb, a 39-year-old third baseman, and Ray Morgan, 23, to the Detroit Tigers. In return, the Pirates received right-hander Harley Young, 29, and left-hander Bunny Hearn, 21. Babb was a regular presence in 1912, appearing in 137 games and batting .246.

November opened with further movement. On November 1st, the Boston Braves shipped centre fielder Bert Daniels, aged 30, to the St. Louis Browns, receiving pitchers Fred Toney and Elmer Rieger, both 23. Daniels hit .234 over 102 games, including 55 starts, during the past season.

The St. Louis Cardinals made their move on November 3rd, trading catcher Syd Smith, 29, to the Philadelphia Athletics for right-hander Joe Benz, 26. Smith batted .291 across 49 games, with 25 starts, in 1912.

Another pitching exchange followed on November 13th, when the Detroit Tigers sent 23-year-old right-hander Tom Johnson to the Athletics. Johnson made six starts last year, posting a 2–3 record. Detroit received veteran Irv Higginbotham, 30, and young right-hander Bill Lindsay, 21.

Activity continued on November 19th, as the Boston Red Sox traded left fielder Pete Compton, 23, to the Chicago White Sox. In return came veteran right-hander Rube Foster, 33, and Dick Redding, a 22-year-old right-hander. Compton appeared in 97 games, including 27 starts, batting .277.

That same day, the Chicago White Sox also addressed their catching depth by signing Mike Simon to a one-year contract worth $1,720. Simon, released by the Cardinals in April, has yet to make a major league start but will look to seize his opportunity.

Several players expressed optimism about their new surroundings.
“I’m grateful for the chance to prove myself with a fresh club,” said Johnny Evers, reflecting on his move to Cleveland.
Pitcher Charlie Smith noted, “A change of uniform brings new purpose, and I’m ready for the work ahead.”
Meanwhile, Pete Compton remarked simply, “I’ll give the White Sox everything I’ve got.”

With winter still young and the appetite for improvement clearly strong, these early maneuvers suggest that the months ahead may yet bring further change before the first pitch of the 1913 season is thrown.

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SPORTING TIMES — December 13th, 1912
By Charles H. Wentworth

DRAFT COMBINE OPENS ITS DOORS AS YOUNG TALENT SEEKS TO IMPRESS

The curtain rose today on the annual Draft Combine, as 207 hopeful ballplayers gathered before the assembled scouts and club officials of the major leagues, each seeking to make his case ahead of the forthcoming draft. With stopwatches in hand and notebooks at the ready, the game’s decision-makers set about the serious business of measuring tomorrow’s talent.

Early impressions suggest that this year’s class is particularly rich in pitching, with several hurlers viewed as ready-made starters from the outset. Chief among them is Dutch Leonard, whose work has already marked him as a possible future all-star. He is joined by John Donaldson and Reb Russell, both of whom have drawn favorable notice for their polish and command.

Position players capable of stepping directly into a starting role appear somewhat scarcer. Among the batsmen, catcher Wally Schang and left fielder Joe Connolly stand out as the clearest candidates to contribute immediately, providing solid presence amid a group otherwise defined more by promise than certainty.

Looking beyond immediate contributors, several prospects have captured the attention of the watching clubs. Edd Roush, a 19-year-old centre fielder, has been turning heads with a string of strong showings, and his name has been frequently whispered among the scouts. On the mound, Ralph Comstock is also generating discussion. While presently regarded as a borderline starter, many believe that with proper seasoning he could yet develop into a valuable top-end pitcher.

Holding the first selection in the upcoming draft, the St. Louis Cardinals are under particular scrutiny. Manager David Stevens, addressing reporters, acknowledged both the opportunity and the responsibility that comes with such a position.
“We have the luxury of choice,” Stevens said, “and our task is to weigh what a club needs today against what it may require tomorrow. This combine gives us a clearer picture, but the decision must be the right one.”

As the drills and evaluations continue, the next few days promise to further shape opinions and fortunes, with every throw and swing carrying the weight of a professional future.

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SPORTING TIMES — December 15th, 1912
By Samuel T. Kingsley

DRAFT COMPLETED AS CARDINALS LEAD THE WAY WITH SCHANG SELECTION
The annual player draft has now been brought to its conclusion, and with it the first professional destinations of this year’s young talent have been determined. Clubs across both leagues have filled their lists, though it must be noted that all drafted players must still come to terms and sign contracts by mid-February before their places are assured.
Holding the first selection, the St. Louis Cardinals elected to take what they believe to be a proven and dependable option, choosing 23-year-old catcher Wally Schang. Schang is already being pencilled in as a possible opening-day choice behind the plate, should he agree terms and prove himself capable of supplanting the current incumbent, Jimmy Archer, when spring training arrives.
Speaking after his selection, Schang expressed both pride and anticipation.
“It is an honour to be taken first,” Schang said. “If I sign, I intend to work hard and show that I belong on the field with the Cardinals.”
Cardinals manager David Stevens was clear in explaining the club’s thinking.
“We felt we needed strength at catcher,” Stevens remarked. “Schang gives us that possibility, and now it will be up to him to earn his place.”
Behind St. Louis, the draft unfolded briskly, with clubs showing a clear appetite for pitching in the opening round, while others sought youthful promise in the outfield and infield. Below is the complete list of selections from the first three rounds.

ROUND 1


St. Louis Cardinals — C Wally Schang, 23


New York Yankees — CF Les Mann, 19


Chicago Cubs — SP Ralph Comstock, 25


Cleveland Naps — LF Joe Connolly, 28


Boston Braves — CF Edd Roush, 19


Chicago White Sox — SP Dutch Leonard, 20


Philadelphia Phillies — RF Tommy Griffith, 23


Philadelphia Athletics — LF Billy Southworth, 19


Pittsburgh Pirates — SP Bob Shawkey, 22


St. Louis Browns — SP Lefty Williams, 19


Washington Senators — SP Reb Russell, 23


Boston Red Sox — SS Milt Stock, 19


Cincinnati Reds — C Bubbles Hargrave, 20


Detroit Tigers — SP Doc Ayers, 21


Brooklyn Superbas — SP John Donaldson, 21


New York Giants — SP Jim Shaw, 19



ROUND 2


St. Louis Cardinals — CF Al Wickland, 24


New York Yankees — RP Al Mamaux, 18


Chicago Cubs — RP Ferdie Schupp, 21


Cleveland Naps — SP Bill James, 20


Boston Braves — C Johnny Bassler, 17


Chicago White Sox — 1B Wally Pipp, 19


Philadelphia Phillies — SP Lou North, 21


Philadelphia Athletics — C William Fischer, 21


Pittsburgh Pirates — SP Earl Moseley, 25


St. Louis Browns — C Dan Kennard, 29


Washington Senators — SS Luke Boone, 22


Boston Red Sox — 3B Zinn Beck, 27


Cincinnati Reds — SP Chief Johnson, 26


Detroit Tigers — SS Ralph Young, 24


Brooklyn Superbas — CF Doc Cook, 26


New York Giants — RP Lynn Brenton, 23



ROUND 3


St. Louis Cardinals — 3B Fritz Maisel, 22


New York Yankees — RP Paul Strand, 18


Chicago Cubs — RP Frank Miller, 26


Cleveland Naps — SP Rube Foster, 24


Boston Braves — CF Nemo Leibold, 20


Chicago White Sox — SP Joe Conzelman, 23


Philadelphia Phillies — SP Weldon Wyckoff, 21


Philadelphia Athletics — RP Jack Bentley, 17


Pittsburgh Pirates — SP Nick Cullop, 25


St. Louis Browns — SP Rube Schauer, 21


Washington Senators — SP Walt Leverenz, 24


Boston Red Sox — SP Carl Zamloch, 23


Cincinnati Reds — SP Zip Zabel, 21


Detroit Tigers — CF Ray Powell, 24


Brooklyn Superbas — C Ernie Krueger, 21


New York Giants — RP Slim Love, 22


With selections complete, attention now turns to negotiations, as clubs and players alike look toward February and the promise of a new season.

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SPORTING TIMES — January 1st, 1913
By Arthur H. Leland

HIGHLANDERS SHED OLD NAME AS CLUB EMERGES AS NEW YORK YANKEES

The New Year has brought with it a significant change in the affairs of New York’s American League club. Following an off-season that already saw the dismissal of their former manager and the appointment of Chris Smith as the new man in charge, the club’s ownership has now taken a further and more striking step in an effort to revive its fortunes.

It was announced today, the first day of 1913, that the New York Highlanders will henceforth be known as the New York Yankees. The change marks the end of the Highlanders’ name and signals what the club hopes will be the beginning of a fresh chapter.

When questioned as to why the announcement was held until now, ownership offered only that certain matters had to be properly arranged before the change could be made official. No further explanation was given.

Those guiding the club believe that the adoption of the Yankees name will provide a new identity, and with it the opportunity to turn the page on recent struggles. As the season ahead draws nearer, the hope in New York is that this rebranding, coupled with new leadership, will usher in more successful and winning campaigns.

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SPORTING TIMES — February 10th, 1913
By George F. Winthrop

CLUBS TURN BACK TO TRADE MARKET AFTER BUSY DRAFT SEASON

With the draft now concluded, several clubs have wasted little time in returning to the trading field, seeking to secure those pieces they felt slipped through their grasp on draft day. The weeks following the selections have produced a steady run of transactions, reshaping rosters as teams prepare for the coming campaign.

The most prominent exchange came on December 23rd, when the Brooklyn Superbas sent first baseman Bill Pettus, left-handed pitcher Joe Engel, and catcher Ray Schalk to the Boston Braves in return for right-hander Grover Cleveland Alexander. Pettus appeared in 91 games last season and hit .223, while Alexander worked heavily for Brooklyn, posting an 18–18 mark from 39 starts with a 3.81 earned run average.

That same day, the Boston Red Sox and Boston Braves completed a notable swap of their own. The Red Sox parted with second baseman Marty Berghammer, receiving veteran infielder Whitey Alperman, shortstop Tommy McMillan, and outfielder Duffy Lewis. Lewis appeared in 136 games last season and finished with a .245 batting average.

On December 25th, the Chicago White Sox dealt left-hander Oscar Graham and young right-hander Ernie Shore to the Brooklyn Superbas, acquiring outfielder Hack Eibel and third baseman Jack Kibble. Graham saw limited action last season, finishing 1–2 across eight relief appearances.

The Detroit Tigers and Philadelphia Athletics completed a trade of reserves on December 27th, sending Phil Douglas to Philadelphia in exchange for Fred Olmstead and Paul Musser.

Brooklyn again made news on January 10th, trading Pol Perritt to the New York Yankees for veteran pitcher Ed Reulbach, a move also described as a reserve exchange.

The Yankees were active once more on January 15th, acquiring first baseman Babe Borton from Detroit in return for pitcher Walt Dickson. Borton made his mark as a pinch hitter last season, batting .311 in 85 such appearances.

On January 27th, the Philadelphia Phillies sent outfielder Spottswood Poles to the Washington Senators, receiving pitcher Hub Perdue and outfielder Frank Gilhooley. Poles appeared in 77 games last season, making four starts and batting .250.

The final notable transaction came on January 28th, when the Chicago Cubs traded veteran second baseman Grant Johnson to the Chicago White Sox. In return, the Cubs received Gus Williams, Wilbur Cooper, Ernie Johnson, and George Boehler. Grant Johnson hit .213 across 99 games last season, while Williams impressed in extended duty, batting .305 in 101 games.

As spring approaches, these moves reflect the continued effort by clubs to fine-tune their rosters, proving that even after the draft, the work of building a winning team is far from finished.

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SPORTING TIMES — February 14th, 1913
By Charles H. Wentworth

SIGNING DEADLINE PASSES AS BONUS FIGURES CLIMB

The final bell has rung on the period allotted for drafted players to place their names upon first contracts, and once again the figures involved show a clear upward march. Of the sixteen men selected in the opening round of the recent draft, no fewer than twelve secured bonuses in excess of one thousand dollars, confirming the growing competition among clubs for young talent.

The most striking agreement of all was concluded in New York, where the Yankees shattered the existing signing bonus mark to secure outfielder Les Mann, the second selection of the draft. Mann’s signature came at the considerable sum of $2,710, the largest bonus yet paid to a drafted player.

Not all negotiations, however, reached a successful conclusion. Lefty Williams, a first-round choice of the St. Louis Browns, failed to come to terms with his club and remains unsigned. A similar fate befell Wally Pipp, taken in the second round by the Chicago White Sox, who was unable to agree to contract terms. Further down the list, ninth-round selection Bill Hobbs also did not sign with the Detroit Tigers.

Among those who did reach agreements at four-figure figures were several of the most closely watched names from draft day. Dutch Leonard signed with the Chicago White Sox for $1,320, while Billy Southworth drew $2,640 from the Philadelphia Athletics. The Boston Braves secured promising outfielder Edd Roush for $2,500, and Milt Stock received $2,200 from the Boston Red Sox.

The full list of players receiving bonuses above one thousand dollars reflects both the depth of the class and the willingness of clubs to invest heavily in future success. As the dust settles on the signing period, attention now turns to spring training, where these investments will soon be tested on the field.

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SPORTING TIMES — April 3rd, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley

CLUBS STRIKE LATE BARGAINS AS SPRING CAMPS WIND DOWN

Though the work of spring training has been well under way, it has not prevented certain clubs from making last-minute moves in the hope of fitting one final piece into place before the championship season opens. Two notable trades, completed in late February and early March, show that front offices remained active even as players were sharpening their form on the practice grounds.

On February 27th, the Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Naps concluded an exchange that brought a seasoned bat to Detroit. The Tigers sent right-handers Jose Acosta, aged 21, and Brad Hogg, 23, to Cleveland in return for veteran third baseman Art Devlin. Devlin, now 33, enjoyed a strong campaign a year ago, appearing in 148 games and batting .297, figures that suggest he can provide steady service at the hot corner.

A second and more substantial transaction followed on March 3rd, when the St. Louis Cardinals dealt their accomplished second baseman Del Pratt to the Boston Red Sox. Pratt comes off an impressive season in which he played 151 games and posted a .316 batting average. In exchange, St. Louis received a trio of players: right-handed pitcher Bullet Joe Bush, just 20 years of age; catcher Hank Gowdy, 23; and right-hander Wiley Taylor, 24. Gowdy saw considerable action last season, appearing in 98 games, including 40 starts, and finished with a .231 average at the plate.

As camps draw toward their close, these late dealings underline the belief among several clubs that the coming season may hinge on a single timely addition, whether drawn from youth or experience.