Notes from history

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BASEBALL’S BEST HONORED AT ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER

By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times
November 2nd, 1915

The annual gathering of the game’s finest took place in New York last evening, as players, officials, and scribes assembled to mark the close of the 1915 campaign with the presentation of the season’s principal honors. It was a night devoted to recognition of steady excellence rather than fleeting brilliance, and the awards reflected the men who carried their clubs through the long summer grind.

In the American League, the game’s highest individual honor was bestowed upon Tris Speaker of the Cleveland Indians. Long regarded as one of the league’s most reliable performers, Speaker crowned his season by being named Most Valuable Player. The Cleveland center fielder fashioned a batting mark of .301, collecting twenty-one doubles and seventeen triples, while driving in fifty-two runs. His consistent play earned him thirteen of the sixteen first-place votes cast, comfortably placing him ahead of Cy Williams of the St. Louis Browns, who finished second, and Braggo Roth of the Philadelphia Athletics, who placed third.

The pitching laurels in the American League went decisively to Jeff Tesreau of the St. Louis Browns, who captured Pitcher of the Year honors by unanimous vote. Tesreau was a pillar of strength throughout the season, compiling a record of twenty-two victories against eleven defeats across thirty-nine starts. Over more than three hundred thirty innings, he struck out one hundred seventy-five batters, posted a sterling earned run average of 2.00, and limited opposing hitters to a .202 mark. Juan Padron of Cleveland and Eddie Cicotte of Washington followed him in the voting.

Padron, however, was not left without distinction. The young Cleveland right-hander was named American League Rookie of the Year after a heavy workload in his first full season. Making forty starts, Padron logged over three hundred thirty-four innings, won twenty-two games, and recorded a 2.07 earned run average. His performance earned him eight first-place votes, edging Happy Felsch of the Washington Senators, with Dave Bancroft of the Chicago White Sox placing third.

Across the senior circuit, the National League awards were equally emphatic. Eddie Collins of the Brooklyn Robins completed a magnificent season by being unanimously selected as the league’s Most Valuable Player. Collins struck for a .349 average, amassed one hundred eighty-nine hits, and drove in ninety-five runs while crossing the plate one hundred six times himself. His commanding performance left Gavvy Cravath of the Boston Braves and Ty Cobb of the Philadelphia Phillies trailing in the voting.

The National League Pitcher of the Year honor went, also by unanimous decision, to Brooklyn’s Walter Johnson. The Robins’ ace authored a remarkable campaign, winning twenty-seven games while losing only nine. In thirty-eight starts, Johnson hurled three hundred thirty-six innings, compiled a 1.88 earned run average, struck out one hundred ninety-seven batters, and held opponents to a .222 average. Grover Cleveland Alexander, his teammate, finished second, with Carl Weilman of the New York Giants third.

Rounding out the evening’s honors was the National League Rookie of the Year award, which went to Tommy Griffith of the Philadelphia Phillies. The young right fielder appeared in one hundred fifty-three games and impressed with a .299 batting average, one hundred seventy-five hits, five home runs, and eighty-two runs batted in. He narrowly topped Babe Ruth of the Pittsburgh Pirates in the voting, with Ivan Howard of the St. Louis Cardinals close behind.

As the dinner concluded and the speeches faded into handshakes and applause, the message of the night was clear: the 1915 season had produced no shortage of worthy performances, and the men honored in New York now stand as fitting symbols of a year well played.

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EARLY OFF-SEASON TRADING SETS THE STAGE FOR WINTER MOVES

By Arthur H. Leland, Sporting Times
December 12th, 1915

Though the playing season has long since closed, the game itself has shown no inclination to rest. The off season has opened with a lively exchange of players, as clubs moved swiftly in the weeks following the campaign’s end to reshape their rosters before turning their attention to the mid-December draft.

The first notable transaction came on October 20th, when the Cincinnati Reds and Detroit Tigers completed a substantial exchange. Cincinnati sent left-handed pitcher George Mogridge and third baseman John Kelleher to Detroit, receiving right-hander Doc Ayers and third baseman Wally Gerber in return. Ayers arrives in Cincinnati after a heavy workload last season, posting a 25–16 record from thirty-nine starts and fifty-six appearances with a 2.69 earned run average. Mogridge, meanwhile, moves to Detroit after compiling a 4–1 mark across three starts and thirty-six games with a 3.16 ERA.

Two days later, on October 22nd, the Brooklyn Robins dealt right fielder Larry Gilbert and catcher Gil Whitehouse to the New York Yankees in exchange for shortstop Tony Smith. This move was regarded as a trade of reserves, with neither club surrendering a central figure from its regular lineup.

The Philadelphia Phillies were next to act, sending shortstop Bill Wambsganss to the Boston Red Sox on October 27th. In return, the Phillies acquired veteran right-hander Alex Pearson and younger pitcher Bert Gallia. Gallia brings with him a demanding season’s experience, having gone 19–18 across thirty-nine starts and fifty-six total appearances with a 2.55 ERA. Pearson appeared sparingly, posting a 3–1 record in relief with a 4.40 ERA.

On October 29th, the Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees struck a deal involving everyday players. Chicago sent first baseman Jay Kirke to New York after a season in which he batted .299 across one hundred fifty-one games. The Cubs received two outfielders in return, Les Mann and Chick Davies. Mann hit .246 over one hundred fifty-two games last year, while Davies joins Chicago as another youthful option in the outfield.

The final day of October brought two more exchanges. The Yankees dealt second baseman Bert Niehoff to the Cleveland Indians for right-handed pitcher Paul Carter in another trade of reserves. On the same day, the Phillies sent left-hander Chet Hoff and outfielder Dan Costello to the Pittsburgh Pirates, receiving right-hander Jimmy Lavender. Hoff impressed in limited opportunities last season, going 7–2 with a 2.39 ERA, while Lavender arrives in Philadelphia after logging a 14–15 record and a 3.00 ERA over an extensive workload.

The most recent move came on November 28th, when the St. Louis Browns traded catcher Dan Kennard to the Chicago White Sox. In return, St. Louis acquired left-handed pitcher Rube Benton and shortstop Billy Orr. Benton worked chiefly in relief last season, posting a 3–5 record with a 3.34 ERA.

With these early maneuvers completed, clubs now turn their gaze toward the coming draft, weighing whether further changes are needed or if the pieces already acquired will be enough to alter their fortunes when the game resumes in the spring.

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FLORIDA CAMP OPENS AS DRAFT HOPEFULS TAKE CENTER STAGE

By George F. Winthrop, Sporting Times
December 13th, 1915

The annual draft combine is once again under way, with club officials and sharp-eyed scouts gathering in Florida for the customary two-day camp that serves as the final proving ground for the game’s most promising young talent.

As the workouts begin, one name dominates every conversation along the sidelines. Rogers Hornsby, last year’s top selection who failed to come to terms on a contract, stands once more as the premier player available. His return to the draft pool has ensured that all eyes are fixed firmly upon him, though questions remain after last winter’s unsuccessful negotiations. Alongside Hornsby, catcher Heavy Johnson and pitchers Nick Cullop and Frank Miller are drawing strong interest as men widely viewed as capable of stepping directly into major league service.

Beyond the immediate standouts, several players are regarded as having the makings of future stars, though they are expected to require further polish. Right fielders Jack Tobin and George Harper have attracted steady attention, as have first baseman George Carr and center fielder Hack Miller, all of whom are being closely watched as the camp progresses.

Holding the first overall selection are the Cincinnati Reds, placing them squarely at the center of the draft’s early intrigue. Whether they will choose the obvious talent in Hornsby, despite last year’s signing difficulties, or pursue a different course remains the chief question of the gathering.

Reds manager Alfonso Perez acknowledged the weight of the decision facing his club. “When you sit at the top of the draft,” Perez said, “every choice carries consequence. We know the ability that is on offer, but we also know what it takes to bring a man into the fold. Our task is to weigh both carefully and act in the best interests of the club.”

With two days of drills and evaluations ahead, the answers may soon come into sharper focus, but for now the Florida sun shines on possibility, promise, and the careful calculations that shape the future of the game.

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REDS MAKE EXPECTED CHOICE AS DRAFT CONCLUDES WITHOUT SURPRISE

By Charles H. Wentworth, Sporting Times
December 15th, 1915

The annual player draft has now been brought to its conclusion, and with it came little in the way of suspense at the very top. As widely anticipated throughout the game, the Cincinnati Reds used the first overall selection to secure Rogers Hornsby, making what many observers had already deemed the obvious and unavoidable choice.

The selection of Hornsby, regarded as the outstanding talent available, drew little shock from those in attendance, and the opening of the draft proceeded with a sense of inevitability once Cincinnati was called upon to make its pick. All drafted players will now turn their attention to negotiations, with contracts required to be finalized by mid-February.

Reds manager Alfonso Perez offered a measured response following the announcement. “When a player of that calibre is before you,” Perez said, “the decision makes itself. Our hope now is to complete matters properly and see him in a Cincinnati uniform when the time comes.”

Hornsby himself struck a calm and respectful tone after hearing his name called first. “I’m grateful for the confidence the Reds have shown in me,” he remarked. “There is still business to be done, but I look forward to what lies ahead.”

What follows is the complete record of the first three rounds of selections as made:

Round 1
Round 1, Pick 1 – Cincinnati Reds: 3B Rogers Hornsby, age 19, out of college (Texas A&M University; College Station, TX)
Round 1, Pick 2 – Philadelphia Athletics: C Heavy Johnson, age 20
Round 1, Pick 3 – Philadelphia Athletics: SS Dobie Moore, age 19
Round 1, Pick 4 – Chicago Cubs: RF George Harper, age 23
Round 1, Pick 5 – St. Louis Cardinals: RF Jack Tobin, age 23
Round 1, Pick 6 – New York Yankees: 1B George Carr, age 21
Round 1, Pick 7 – Boston Red Sox: CF Hack Miller, age 21
Round 1, Pick 8 – Chicago White Sox: RF Max Flack, age 25
Round 1, Pick 9 – Detroit Tigers: SP Burleigh Grimes, age 22
Round 1, Pick 10 – Philadelphia Phillies: LF Charlie Grimm, age 17
Round 1, Pick 11 – Pittsburgh Pirates: SP Howard Ehmke, age 21
Round 1, Pick 12 – Cleveland Indians: CF Mike Menosky, age 21
Round 1, Pick 13 – Boston Braves: SP Bob Steele, age 21
Round 1, Pick 14 – St. Louis Browns: SP Urban Shocker, age 25
Round 1, Pick 15 – Washington Senators: 2B Carson Bigbee, age 20
Round 1, Pick 16 – New York Giants: SP Frank Miller, age 29
Round 1, Pick 17 – Brooklyn Robins: SP Nick Cullop, age 28

Round 2
Round 2, Pick 1 – Cincinnati Reds: SS Whitey Witt, age 20
Round 2, Pick 2 – Philadelphia Athletics: SP Mike Prendergast, age 27
Round 2, Pick 3 – Chicago Cubs: RF Joe Wilhoit, age 29
Round 2, Pick 4 – St. Louis Cardinals: SP George Cunningham, age 21
Round 2, Pick 5 – New York Yankees: C Val Picinich, age 19
Round 2, Pick 6 – Boston Red Sox: SP Jing Johnson, age 21
Round 2, Pick 7 – Chicago White Sox: C Hank DeBerry, age 20
Round 2, Pick 8 – Detroit Tigers: SP Scott Perry, age 24
Round 2, Pick 9 – Philadelphia Phillies: C Patsy Gharrity, age 23
Round 2, Pick 10 – Pittsburgh Pirates: SP Bill Evans, age 22
Round 2, Pick 11 – Cleveland Indians: RP Jack Scott, age 23
Round 2, Pick 12 – Boston Braves: 3B Dave Malarcher, age 21
Round 2, Pick 13 – St. Louis Browns: C Cy Perkins, age 19, out of college (Felician University; Lodi, NJ)
Round 2, Pick 14 – Washington Senators: C Verne Clemons, age 24
Round 2, Pick 15 – New York Giants: SP Milt Watson, age 25
Round 2, Pick 16 – Brooklyn Robins: SP Otis Lambeth, age 25

Round 3
Round 3, Pick 1 – Cincinnati Reds: SP Bill Gatewood, age 34
Round 3, Pick 2 – Philadelphia Athletics: SP Molly Craft, age 20
Round 3, Pick 3 – Chicago Cubs: SP Al Gould, age 22
Round 3, Pick 4 – St. Louis Cardinals: SP Bill Drake, age 20
Round 3, Pick 5 – New York Yankees: LF Greasy Neale, age 24
Round 3, Pick 6 – Boston Red Sox: SP Tom Williams, age 19
Round 3, Pick 7 – Chicago White Sox: SP Joe Lotz, age 24
Round 3, Pick 8 – Detroit Tigers: SS Zeb Terry, age 24
Round 3, Pick 9 – Chicago Cubs: RP Marv Goodwin, age 24
Round 3, Pick 10 – Philadelphia Phillies: LF Earl Smith, age 24
Round 3, Pick 11 – Pittsburgh Pirates: 3B Joe Evans, age 20, out of college (Wofford College; Spartanburg, SC)
Round 3, Pick 12 – Cleveland Indians: RF Lee King, age 22
Round 3, Pick 13 – Boston Braves: C Walter Schmidt, age 28
Round 3, Pick 14 – St. Louis Browns: RP Cy Warmoth, age 22
Round 3, Pick 15 – Washington Senators: C Grover Hartley, age 27
Round 3, Pick 16 – New York Giants: SS Sam Bohne, age 19
Round 3, Pick 17 – Brooklyn Robins: RP George Smith, age 23

With the selections complete, attention now turns to the negotiating table, where promises made on draft day must soon be formalized before the mid-February deadline.

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TRADE LEDGER THIN AS CLUBS SHOW RARE RESTRAINT AFTER DRAFT

By Samuel T. Kingsley
Sporting Times
February 12th, 1916

In a departure from the usual winter bustle, the trade market following the recent draft proved markedly subdued, with clubs across the leagues showing an uncommon measure of restraint. Where other off-seasons have seen rosters reshaped in quick succession, this year produced just three completed exchanges, each carried out with deliberation rather than haste.

The first movement came swiftly after the draft. On December 16th, 1915, the Philadelphia Phillies sent 19-year-old catcher Muddy Ruel to the Pittsburgh Pirates in return for 31-year-old right-hander Bob Groom. Groom shouldered a heavy burden last season, working in 44 games with 37 starts, and finished with a 13-22 record and a 3.92 earned run average.

Nine days later, on December 25th, the Phillies were again involved, this time dealing 29-year-old centre fielder Joe Kelly to the New York Yankees. In exchange, Philadelphia received right-handed pitcher Dave Davenport, aged 25, and 23-year-old first baseman Walter Holke. The transaction was widely viewed as a trade of reserves, with both clubs adjusting depth rather than altering their core.

The final and most recent move occurred just yesterday, on February 11th, 1916. The Chicago Cubs parted with 26-year-old right-hander Claude Hendrix, sending him to the Detroit Tigers in return for 19-year-old catcher Bob O’Farrell. Hendrix brings proven durability, having made 32 starts among 38 appearances last season, compiling a 16-15 record with a 3.08 earned run average.

With these few transactions now complete, clubs appear content to turn their attention toward preparation rather than negotiation, leaving this winter notable not for its activity, but for its quiet.

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RECORD BONUSES MARK DRAFT SIGNING DEADLINE AS CLUBS PAY PREMIUM FOR TALENT

By Arthur H. Leland
Sporting Times
February 13th, 1916

The final hour for the signing of drafted players has passed, and with it comes further proof that the price of promising talent continues its steady climb. Once again, clubs were compelled to open their purses wider than ever before, and this year witnessed a landmark moment as the top bonus surpassed the four-thousand-dollar mark for the first time.

That distinction belongs to Dobie Moore, who secured a signing bonus of $4,070 from the Philadelphia Athletics. His agreement stands at the head of a class in which the first sixteen selections all commanded sums in excess of $1,000, joined by a single second-round pick who likewise crossed that threshold.

Among the notable agreements, George Carr signed with the New York Yankees for $2,280, while Max Flack received $2,170 from the Chicago White Sox. The St. Louis Browns committed $1,230 to Urban Shocker, and the Cleveland Indians invested $1,460 in Mike Menosky. Catcher Heavy Johnson drew $3,140 from the Athletics, while Bob Steele joined the Boston Braves for $1,800. Detroit matched that figure in landing Burleigh Grimes, and the Philadelphia Phillies secured Charlie Grimm for $2,710.

Frank Miller signed with the New York Giants for $1,010, and Jack Tobin reached terms with the St. Louis Cardinals at $1,980. Pittsburgh’s Howard Ehmke received $1,890, George Harper agreed to $2,500 with the Chicago Cubs, and Val Picinich signed with the Yankees for $1,320. Cincinnati committed $2,710 to Rogers Hornsby, Washington secured Carson Bigbee for $1,120, and Hack Miller joined the Boston Red Sox on a $2,220 bonus.

Not all negotiations, however, were concluded successfully. Several players elected not to sign, leaving their future status unresolved. Among those failing to reach agreement were Molly Craft, a third-round selection of the Philadelphia Athletics; Ken Penner, taken in the fourth round by the Boston Braves; Marty Shaw and Babe Ellison, fifth- and sixth-round picks of the New York Yankees respectively; Ed Sicking, a sixth-round choice of the Pittsburgh Pirates; and Herb Hunter, selected in the seventh round by the Detroit Tigers.

With the signing period now closed, clubs may reflect on a draft notable both for its escalating costs at the top and the familiar uncertainty that lingers at the bottom of the list.

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TIGERS AND GIANTS COMPLETE FINAL EXCHANGE ON EVE OF TRAINING

By George F. Winthrop
Sporting Times
March 7th, 1916

On the very threshold of spring training, the Detroit Tigers and New York Giants have concluded the final transaction of the winter, completing a deal that reshapes both clubs as preparations for the new campaign begin.

Detroit has parted with veteran centre fielder Cozy Dolan, sending the 33-year-old to New York. In return, the Tigers receive left-handed pitcher Ad Brennan, aged 28, along with 24-year-old second baseman Marty Kavanagh.

Dolan departs Detroit after a steady season in which he appeared in 150 contests and batted .263, providing consistent service in the outfield. The Giants, seeking experience up the middle, will look to Dolan to bring that same reliability to their grounds.

In Brennan, the Tigers acquire a proven arm. The southpaw worked heavily last season, compiling a 22–18 record across 39 starts and 52 appearances in all, while maintaining a respectable earned run average of 2.98. His addition gives Detroit further depth and durability on the mound. Kavanagh, meanwhile, showed promise with the bat, hitting .305 while making 23 starts and appearing in 115 games overall, and now arrives with the opportunity to establish himself more firmly in the Tigers’ infield plans.

With this exchange completed, both clubs now turn fully to spring training, their rosters set as the long wait for meaningful baseball at last draws to a close.

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SPORTING TIMES CASTS ITS EYE AHEAD AS NEW SEASON DAWNS

By Samuel T. Kingsley and Charles H. Wentworth
Sporting Times
April 11th, 1916

With the sounds of spring training now fading and the real contest about to begin, the Sporting Times once more ventures into the uncertain business of prediction. Pennants are not won on paper, yet figures and form provide clues enough for informed conjecture as to who may prosper in the long months ahead—and who may find the going heavy.

American League Outlook

If the forecasts hold true, the American League pennant may well find its way to Detroit. The Tigers are tipped to finish atop the circuit with a record of 90 wins against 64 defeats, built upon a solid attack and a pitching staff that appears the most dependable in the league. Their projected runs-against figure of 516 and a staff earned run average of 2.79 speak loudly of their balance.

Cleveland is expected to give close chase, finishing six games back. The Indians’ strength lies in a potent batting order, projected to score more runs than any other club, while their pitching remains stout enough to keep them firmly in contention. St. Louis is forecast to be next best, only a game behind Cleveland, with their own blend of power and pitching keeping them in the hunt deep into the season.

Washington, last year’s champions, are predicted to slip back slightly, though their fine pitching numbers suggest they will remain troublesome opponents. Chicago, Philadelphia, and New York appear locked in a tight middle grouping, while Boston is forecast to bring up the rear.

Among the batsmen, Tris Speaker of Cleveland is projected to lead all hitters with a remarkable .378 average, while Detroit’s Zack Wheat and Washington’s Happy Felsch are also expected to enjoy fine campaigns. On the mound, Detroit’s Reb Russell heads the list with a projected 24 victories and a sterling 2.02 ERA, closely followed by Cleveland’s Jack Pfeffer and Chicago’s Smokey Wood.

National League Prospects

In the senior circuit, the prediction is far less clear-cut. Boston and Brooklyn are forecast to finish deadlocked atop the standings, each with 90 victories. The Braves’ advantage is seen in their pitching depth and aggressive base running, while Brooklyn’s strength again rests with a formidable staff and steady offense.

Pittsburgh is expected to finish seven games back in third, with Chicago close behind. The middle of the league appears crowded, while Cincinnati is forecast to endure another difficult season at the foot of the table.

Ty Cobb of Philadelphia is predicted to once again reign supreme with the bat, with a projected .361 average and 54 stolen bases. Boston’s Gavvy Cravath and Brooklyn’s Joe Jackson are also tipped for strong offensive years. On the pitching side, Brooklyn’s Walter Johnson and Pittsburgh’s Babe Ruth headline a powerful list, with Ruth’s projected 1.93 ERA standing out as the best in the league.

Only the Game Will Decide

These forecasts, grounded in careful study of form and figures, remain just that—forecasts. The long grind of the season has a habit of humbling even the most confident predictions. Still, as the gates open and the crowds return, the outlines of what may come are drawn, and the promise of a stirring summer of baseball lies ahead.

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BROWNS AND CUBS SET THE EARLY PACE AS SEASON TAKES SHAPE

By Arthur H. Leland
Sporting Times
May 1st, 1916

The 1916 campaign has thus far been quiet in matters off the field, yet the play itself has been of a high and pleasing standard, with the opening weeks already offering a glimpse of how the two leagues may unfold.

In the American League it is the St. Louis Browns who have come out of the gate at a sharp clip. Their brisk start has carried them into first place with a commanding four and a half game advantage over both the Boston Red Sox and the Washington Senators. Cleveland sits close at hand, only another half game adrift in fourth, and remains well within striking distance should the leaders stumble. At the other end of the standings the early weeks have been unkind to Chicago, the White Sox already ten games behind the pace, with Detroit faring only marginally better, nine games back of the Browns.

The National League has seen a different complexion, with the Chicago Cubs setting the early standard. The Cubs hold a two-game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies, while the reigning champions, the Brooklyn Robins, find themselves in third place, four games off the top, tied in that position with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Matters are bleak in St. Louis, where the Cardinals occupy the cellar, eleven games behind after managing only three victories during the month of April.

Individual honors for the opening month reflect the clubs that have set the pace. In the American League, Cy Williams of the Browns has led all batsmen with a .367 average, adding two home runs, fifteen runs batted in, and nine runs scored. His teammate Rube Benton has anchored the pitching staff, posting a perfect 5-0 record with a 2.32 earned run average, while Philadelphia’s Mike Prendergast has earned notice among the newcomers with a fine 3-1 mark and a stingy 1.23 ERA.

In the National League, Brooklyn’s Joe Jackson has been the most feared hitter in April, batting .385 with three home runs, eighteen runs driven in, and sixteen tallies of his own. The Cubs’ Lefty Tyler has been masterful on the mound, opening the season at 5-0 with a 1.57 ERA, and fellow Cub Ferdie Schupp has distinguished himself among the rookies with a 3-2 record and a 2.20 mark.

Though much baseball remains to be played, the opening month has already sketched the first outlines of the 1916 race.

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VAUGHN’S NO-HIT MASTERPIECE CARRIES BROWNS PAST YANKEES

By George F. Winthrop
Sporting Times
May 25th, 1916

The St. Louis Browns’ brilliant opening to the 1916 season showed no sign of cooling today, as they edged the New York Yankees by the narrowest of margins, 1–0, on New York soil. The victory lifted the Browns to a formidable 29–10 record, and it was achieved in the most memorable fashion imaginable.

Hippo Vaughn, the 28-year-old right-hander, delivered a performance that will long be spoken of wherever the game is discussed, pitching a complete-game no-hitter against the Yankees. Working with a lively fastball, a teasing curve, and a change of pace that kept the home bats off balance all afternoon, Vaughn left the New York hitters baffled from the first inning to the last.

The Browns’ lone run proved sufficient, coming early when Cy Williams drove a home run that gave St. Louis a 1–0 advantage. From that moment on, Vaughn bore down with calm assurance, protecting the slender lead through nine innings of flawless pitching. He allowed only three walks, struck out one, and was aided throughout by sharp and errorless fielding behind him.

With the no-hitter added to his ledger, Vaughn now stands at 7–4 on the season, with an earned run average of 2.43, figures that further underline his importance to the Browns’ fast start.

After the game, Vaughn was modest in his assessment of the feat. “I had good life on the ball today and trusted the men behind me,” he said. “When you get a run early like that, your job is simply to keep pitching and let the game come to you.”

Browns manager Harry Salisbury was full of praise for his hurler. “That was as fine a pitched game as you’ll ever see,” Salisbury remarked. “Hippo had command of everything he threw, and when a man gives you nine innings without a hit, he’s earned his place in the club’s history.”

The Browns continue to press forward at a remarkable pace, and on this day it was Vaughn’s arm that carried them to yet another notable triumph.

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TERRY FELLED BY SHOULDER INJURY AS TIGERS FALL AT HOME

By Charles H. Wentworth
Sporting Times
May 30th, 1916

It was a dispiriting afternoon at the grounds in Detroit, where the Tigers’ troubled season took another harsh turn in an 8–4 defeat at the hands of the Chicago White Sox. The loss dropped Detroit to 18–25 on the year, and the setback was compounded by the loss of shortstop Zeb Terry, who was forced from the contest with a serious injury.

The mishap occurred in the bottom of the second inning. Terry had reached base on a sharp single to right field, and moments later Daubert struck a ball that left Terry and the White Sox second baseman converging at the bag. The throw arrived at the same instant as the runner, and the resulting collision sent both men sprawling to the turf. When order was restored Terry was ruled out, but the greater concern was his condition, as he was slow to rise and was clearly in pain, clutching at his shoulder.

The Tigers’ trainers hurried to his aid and, after a brief examination, assisted Terry from the field, making it plain that his afternoon was over. He finished the day with one hit in his lone appearance at the plate, a small bright spot that nudged his season batting average up to .191.

The mood in the Detroit camp darkened further after the game, when it was confirmed that Terry had suffered a torn labrum. The injury will keep him out of action for an estimated eight to nine months, bringing his season to an abrupt end.

Speaking quietly afterward, Terry accepted the misfortune with resignation. “It was just one of those plays where neither man could give way,” he said. “I knew right away something wasn’t right with the shoulder, and it’s hard to swallow knowing the year is over.”

Tigers manager Dan Fafara expressed his concern for his shortstop and his club. “Zeb’s a hard-nosed player who gives us everything he has,” Fafara remarked. “Losing him like this is a tough blow, both for him and for the team, and we’ll have to find a way to carry on.”

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LEAGUES SETTLE INTO STRIDE AS SUMMER APPROACHES

By Samuel T. Kingsley
Sporting Times
June 1st, 1916

With the month of May now in the books, the base ball season begins its turn from spring promise to summer purpose, and across both circuits clubs are at last showing their true colors as the long campaign unfolds.

In the American League, the St. Louis Browns have shown no sign of easing their early pace. Their strong May has carried them to a commanding position atop the standings, where they now enjoy a seven-and-a-half game advantage. The New York Yankees and Cleveland Indians are locked together in second place, left to chase a Browns club that has thus far been the class of the circuit. At the other end of the table, the Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers continue to labor under new management, occupying seventh and eighth positions and trailing the leaders by 17½ and 18½ games respectively.

The National League is beginning to take on a familiar look, with the Brooklyn Robins once again asserting themselves at the summit. The reigning champions have opened a four-and-a-half game cushion over the Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates, who share second place, while the Boston Braves sit a further game back in fourth. Matters are far less encouraging in St. Louis, where the Cardinals’ difficult season has only deepened. With just 11 victories to their name, they remain rooted to the foot of the table, a full 18½ games behind the leaders and owners of the poorest record in either league.

As May closed, individual honors reflected both established excellence and emerging talent. In the American League, Bobby Veach of the Cleveland Indians earned top batting honors with a .345 mark, driving in 24 runs and scoring 15 himself. On the mound, Detroit’s Ad Brennan was flawless in May, posting a 6–0 record and a stingy 1.44 earned run average, while Philadelphia’s Mike Prendergast claimed rookie honors with a 3–3 mark and a 2.29 ERA.

National League plaudits belonged largely to Brooklyn. Joe Jackson led all batsmen with a remarkable .410 average, adding one home run, 19 runs batted in, and 20 runs scored. His teammate Walter Johnson was the league’s top pitcher for the month, going 6–2 with a 2.70 ERA, while rookie honors went to Frank Miller of the New York Giants, who impressed with a 5–1 record and a 2.44 earned run average.

With the long days of summer ahead, the races are far from decided, but as June dawns the contours of the 1916 season are beginning to take shape.

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ATHLETICS HALT SKID WITH LATE RALLY IN CHICAGO

By Arthur H. Leland
Sporting Times
June 6th, 1916

After a difficult fortnight that saw them slide steadily down the standings, the Philadelphia Athletics at last found welcome relief yesterday in Chicago, snapping a ten-game losing streak with a hard-earned 4–2 victory over the White Sox on the road. The triumph lifts the Athletics to a record of 15 wins against 34 defeats and offers a measure of encouragement to a club sorely in need of it.

For much of the afternoon the contest appeared destined to follow the same unhappy pattern. Philadelphia went to the ninth inning trailing 2–1, their bats again quiet and the home club seemingly in control. Instead, the Athletics summoned a late burst of life, and a determined rally in the top of the ninth brought three runs across the plate to turn defeat into victory.

The foundation for the comeback was laid by starting pitcher Phil Douglas, who delivered a sturdy performance across eight innings. Douglas yielded nine hits and two runs, striking out five, and by holding the White Sox in check he kept his side within striking distance throughout the day. “I just tried to keep the ball down and give the fellows a chance,” Douglas said afterward. “It’s a fine feeling to see them come through at the end.”

The decisive ninth inning saw Philadelphia finally find its rhythm at the bat, as a succession of singles and well-earned walks crowded the bases and allowed three runners to circle home. With the lead secured, Tommy Atkins took the ball for the final frame and did his work neatly, allowing only two hits to close out the game and earn the save.

Athletics manager Frank Selee spoke of both relief and resolve following the contest. “The boys have been fighting hard through this stretch,” he said. “Today they showed what they can do when they keep after it. We needed this one, and I hope it serves as a turning point.”

For at least one day, the Athletics could leave the field with their heads held higher, having finally brought an end to a long and trying run of defeats.

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SOX AND INDIANS STRIKE EARLY AS RIXEY CHANGES COLORS

By George F. Winthrop
Sporting Times
June 16th, 1916

Though the trading season customarily waits for the heat of July, the Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Indians have seen fit to move ahead of the usual calendar, completing an early exchange that sent a notable arm from the South Side to Ohio.

The White Sox have parted with left-handed pitcher Eppa Rixey, 25 years of age, dealing him to the Cleveland Indians in return for a trio of younger men. Heading to Chicago are 21-year-old right fielder Charlie Blackwell, 23-year-old first baseman Roy Wood, and 24-year-old right-handed pitcher Pop-Boy Smith.

Rixey departs Chicago in fine form, having posted a record of four victories against two defeats this season. In five starts and seven appearances overall, the left-hander has fashioned an impressive earned run mark of 1.77, making him a valuable addition to the Indian pitching staff.

By acting now rather than waiting for midsummer, both clubs have shown a willingness to shape their fortunes early, and the coming weeks will reveal how this exchange serves their respective causes as the season continues to unfold.

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COBB REACHES 500 STEALS AS PHILLIES ROUTE BRAVES

By Charles H. Wentworth
Sporting Times
June 24th, 1916

Once more it was Ty Cobb who set the pace, and on this afternoon at home the Phillies’ brilliant centre fielder carved his name a little deeper into the record books. The 29-year-old star crossed the lofty mark of 500 stolen bases for his career as Philadelphia swept past the Boston Braves by a commanding 10–3 count, a victory that lifts the Phillies to 35 wins against 30 defeats on the season.

Cobb was in the thick of matters from the opening inning. He finished the day with two hits in four trips to the plate, drew a walk, and crossed the plate twice. More telling still were his two thefts of second base, one in the first inning and another in the second, both of which helped Philadelphia race out to a decisive 7–0 advantage before the Braves could find their footing. Those swipes bring Cobb’s total to 30 for the year and an even 500 over his illustrious career.

For the season Cobb is now striking the ball at a .349 clip, with 56 runs scored and 32 runs driven in. Across his career he has maintained a remarkable .355 batting average, a standard that keeps the Philadelphia faithful on edge and their cheers ringing loudly whenever he takes his lead.

“I’ve always believed that a man ought to take every base he can earn,” Cobb said after the game. “Five hundred is a fine round number, but what matters most to me is helping this club get wins like today.”

Phillies manager Danny Lara was equally effusive in his praise. “You’re watching something special every time Ty puts on a uniform,” Lara remarked. “Those steals set the tone early, and when he plays with that kind of fire it lifts the whole ballclub.”

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PENNANT RACES TIGHTEN AS SUMMER ARRIVES

By Samuel T. Kingsley
Sporting Times
July 1st, 1916

With the calendar turning and the heat of summer settling over the diamond, the two great pennant chases are beginning to show sharper definition, though much remains to be decided before the stretch run arrives.

In the American League, the early cushion enjoyed by the St. Louis Browns has been noticeably reduced. Cleveland’s steady pressure has trimmed the Browns’ advantage to a margin of three games, lending new urgency to the race. Detroit holds third place at seven games off the pace, still within sight should fortune turn their way. At the other end of the standings, the Philadelphia Athletics have slipped into last position. They now find themselves 21½ games behind the leaders, with a seven-game gulf separating them from seventh place, a sobering position as the season moves forward.

The National League picture remains more settled at the top. Brooklyn continues to set the standard, maintaining a five-game lead over both the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs, who remain locked together in pursuit. Far from the contest, the St. Louis Cardinals’ unhappy campaign shows little sign of relief. With only 18 victories to their credit, they trail the leaders by 27 games and hold the poorest record in either league.

June’s individual honors reflect both established excellence and promising new faces. In the American League, Heinie Groh of the New York Yankees claimed top batting laurels with a .305 mark, adding one home run, 15 runs batted in, and 21 runs scored. Detroit’s Ad Brennan was the standout on the mound, posting a perfect 6–0 record with a sparkling 1.38 earned run average. Rookie honors went to Chicago White Sox hurler Wheezer Dell, whose flawless 5–0 mark and 1.93 ERA marked him as a newcomer of note.

In the National League, Joe Jackson of the Brooklyn Robins led all batsmen, hitting .374 while driving in 17 runs and scoring 18 himself. Boston Braves pitcher Fred Toney earned top pitching distinction with a 5–1 record and a superb 1.31 ERA. Rookie recognition belonged to Pittsburgh’s Bill Evans, whose early work included a 3–0 record and a remarkable 0.38 earned run average.

As July opens, the races promise increasing drama, with contenders pressing hard and laggards seeking signs of renewal under the summer sun.

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MAGEE MARKS 1,000TH RUN AS BROWNS RALLY STUN ATHLETICS

By Arthur H. Leland
Sporting Times
July 13th, 1916

It was a day of both trial and triumph for the St. Louis Browns, who showed the full measure of their resolve by storming back to defeat the Philadelphia Athletics, 8–7, on the Athletics’ own grounds. The hard-earned victory lifted the Browns to 50–35 on the season and served to further entrench their hold atop the American League race.

For much of the afternoon, the contest appeared firmly in Philadelphia’s grasp. The Athletics burst from the gate with an early 7–0 advantage, highlighted by a devastating five-run third inning that seemed sufficient to decide the matter. Yet the Browns, refusing to accept their fate, chipped away with determination and patience. Three runs in the fifth inning finally put them on the board, two more in the seventh narrowed the gap, and a dramatic three-run surge in the ninth inning completed a remarkable comeback, sealing the game by the slimmest of margins.

At the heart of the Browns’ revival stood veteran left fielder Sherry Magee. The 31-year-old turned in a steady performance, going 2-for-4 with two runs scored, but his contribution carried weight far beyond the box score. Magee crossed the plate with the Browns’ first run in the fifth inning to ignite the rally, then scored again in the seventh as St. Louis closed in on the Athletics’ lead. That latter tally proved especially notable, marking the 1,000th run of Magee’s distinguished career.

Magee’s long service with the Browns began in 1904, and he has worn the St. Louis colors throughout his professional life. Now standing at an even 1,000 career runs, he has paired that consistency with a lifetime batting average of .280. This season he continues in the same steady fashion, hitting .279, almost precisely in keeping with his career standard.

After the game, Magee reflected modestly on the milestone, saying, “Runs only count when they help the club, and I’m glad this one came in a game we refused to give away.” Browns manager Harry Salisbury was equally emphatic in his praise, remarking, “That is the kind of ballclub we are building here. Magee has been doing his work for years, and today he showed again what heart and steadiness mean when a game hangs in the balance.”

In one long afternoon in Philadelphia, the Browns not only added another victory to their growing total, but also celebrated a landmark moment in the career of one of their most faithful servants.

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PLANK REACHES 2,500 STRIKEOUTS IN TOUGH LOSS TO PHILLIES

By George F. Winthrop
Sporting Times
July 23rd, 1916

Eddie Plank added another distinguished figure to his long and durable career this afternoon, even as the Cincinnati Reds were edged at home by the Philadelphia Phillies, 1–0. Called upon in relief, the veteran southpaw recorded the 2,500th strikeout of his professional life, a milestone achieved amid a contest that otherwise brought little cheer to the local nine.

Plank has been a familiar and steady figure on the Reds’ pitching staff throughout the season, shouldering a heavy load with 24 starts to his credit and no fewer than 21 appearances out of the bullpen. Sunday’s contest saw him summoned once more in relief, with Cincinnati trailing by a single run and the issue still very much in doubt.

Reds manager Alfonso Perez entrusted the seventh and eighth innings to Plank’s experienced arm, and the veteran answered in customary fashion. Over two innings of work, Plank allowed no hits and struck out one batter, the decisive pitch marking the 2,500th strikeout of his career. Yet despite his efforts, the Reds’ bats remained quiet, and the lone run scored by Philadelphia earlier in the game stood unchallenged to the final out. The defeat left Cincinnati with a record of 46–50 on the season.

For the year, Plank now stands at 11 victories against 12 defeats, carrying an earned run average of 3.03. His career ledger, begun in 1901 and continued in Cincinnati since 1907, reads an imposing 329 wins against 260 losses, with a lifetime ERA of 2.79.

After the game, Plank spoke calmly of the moment, saying, “It is a fine thing to reach a number like that, but I would have traded it gladly for a run or two from our bats today.” Manager Perez echoed both pride and disappointment in his remarks, noting, “Eddie gave us exactly what we needed when the game was on the line. You cannot ask more from a man than that. Unfortunately, we could not back him up at the plate.”

Thus, a notable personal achievement for one of the game’s most enduring pitchers came on a day when the scoreboard told a harsher story for the Reds, reminding all present how often baseball’s honors are won in silence as well as celebration.

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TIGERS MAKE IT TEN STRAIGHT BEHIND DEMAREE’S SHUTOUT

By Charles H. Wentworth
Sporting Times
July 24th, 1916

The Detroit Tigers’ remarkable midsummer surge showed no sign of slowing this afternoon, as they captured their tenth consecutive victory by blanking the Chicago White Sox, 2–0, on their home grounds. The triumph lifted Detroit’s season record to 54–39 and further underscored the club’s present mastery of the American League race.

The contest belonged squarely to Al Demaree, who delivered one of his finest efforts of the year. Working the full nine innings, the Tiger right-hander scattered just five hits, permitted no runs, and struck out eight White Sox batters, keeping Chicago in check from the first pitch to the last. With the win, Demaree improved his personal mark to 12 victories against 10 defeats, lowering his earned run average to a commendable 2.53.

Detroit’s bats were far from lively, and the Tigers found hits hard to come by against stubborn Chicago pitching. Still, they managed to do just enough, pushing across two runs over the course of the afternoon to provide Demaree with all the support he required.

After the game, the victorious pitcher was modest in his praise, saying, “When the fellows give you even a little to work with, the job is to hold it, and today everything seemed to come out of my hand just right.” Manager Dan Fafara, clearly pleased with both the result and the manner in which it was achieved, remarked, “This club is playing steady ball, and Demaree set the tone today. Ten straight wins do not come by accident.”

With confidence high and their winning streak now reaching double figures, the Tigers continue to make themselves felt as a formidable force as the long summer grind presses on.

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GIANTS HALT SKID WITH GRITTY WIN OVER REDS

By Samuel T. Kingsley
Sporting Times
July 25th, 1916

After a long and trying stretch, the New York Giants were finally able to breathe a sigh of relief this afternoon, turning back the Cincinnati Reds by a score of 3–1. The victory lifted the Giants to 40–54 on the season and, more importantly, brought an end to an 11-game losing streak that had weighed heavily upon the club.

The day belonged to Carl Weilman, who shouldered the pitching burden from start to finish. Weilman went the full nine innings, allowing just six hits and a single run, while striking out two. His task was made no easier by the elements, as a stubborn rain storm halted play for 56 minutes in the fourth inning, threatening to break his rhythm. When play resumed, however, Weilman returned with steady arm and calm purpose, keeping the Reds in check the rest of the way.

At the plate, the Giants were hardly overwhelming, but they were effective when it counted. Seven hits were enough to bring home three runs, providing just sufficient support for their tireless pitcher and securing the club’s first victory in several weeks.

Weilman, speaking afterward, brushed aside personal praise, saying, “After a spell like we’ve had, any win feels like a good one. I just tried to keep the ball low and let the boys behind me do their work.” Giants manager General Stafford echoed the sentiment, remarking, “This club needed a lift, and Carl gave it to us. One win doesn’t mend everything, but it’s a start, and it shows what these men are still capable of doing.”

For a Giants club that has endured more than its share of disappointment this season, the afternoon’s result offered a welcome glimpse of better days, and a reminder that perseverance can still be rewarded.