Our Game From Beginning To End

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
September 1879
Edition 9.7



White Making Everyone See Red
Cincinnati Leans On Pitching As Pennant Looms

As the powerful steam engines roll through Ohio and come to Cincinnati no one can deny that this season feels different. It local Reds are as of the moment holding a four game lead on the mighty White Stockings and could finally earn the blessed pennant of the National League.

Some think it is the Reds bats that are making the difference and elevating this club but at close examination, it is the arms of this club that has manager John Riker dreaming big. The Reds have allowed the fewest runs in the league and have a league best 2.17 ERA. Three arms are feeding off of eachother in the rotation and no opposing can get a break. However at the head of the class is the arm of Will White, who at 24 years old is really building his own legend.



White came into the league 3 years ago and no one thought he would really last or had the ability to start. There was nothign extra special about him and the Reds were just going to use him as needed. Last season however he was asked to step in and start and his impact was noticable as he won 19 games in 32 starts with a 1.46 ERA. Surely a fluke said all the papers and experts of the game.

This season the critics are no where to be found. White has already won 23 games and hs ERA sits at 1.57 as he is on pace to throw over 300 innings. No pitcher has put together two seasons of the such thus far that anyone can remember. He has allowed less then 100 runs in his career combined. The record of Bobby Mathews for wins in a season may be out of reach, but White doesn't mind as he is singularly focused on winning a pennant.

Of course the job isn't finished yet and Chicago still will have a say of what happens in October. But baseball seasons are often about teams of destiny and the storybook seems to read that the Reds are the heroes of this climactic season. There is nothing like October baseball. There is nothing at all like Cincinnati October baseball.

Can A No Hitter Really Happen?
No Pitcher Has Been Able To Write History



Here we stand in the 9th season of Major League baseball and no one can deny that the pitching in this league has evolved completely since the inaugural season. Speed, curves, and technique have all come to be a reality for league hitters and at times it would seem that the arms are well ahead of the bats in the great scheme of things.

All that being said, no pitcher has been able to go an entire game without allowing at least one hit. Pitchers have come close including two this season in Joe Blong and Al Pratt but no one has been able to pull off the trick. Even local newspapers are enticing arms by offering grand prizes for the first pitcher who is able to do so.

"I don't think it is something that we should expect" says Chicago manager Charlie Pabor, "a baseball game is long and a pitcher is bound to make at least one mistake".

Others are a little more hopeful, "I think I could get there if I have a little luck and am feeling strong on a particular day" says John Ward of St. Louis.

So can it be done, well of course since many have been close we would have to say yes, but up to now the baseball gods have been consistent in preventing it from happening. Or maybe we are just putting on a curse just talking about it.

Not that anyone in baseball is superstitious right?

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
October 1879
Edition 9.8



The Stars Come Full Circle
Syracuse Franchise Wins 4th Pennant

Everyone in the game acknowledged that a great run was over after last season when the Washington ball club left the city after losing 66 games, Names like Barnes, White and Mathews seemed to be at the end of their best days and it all appeared under a new manager with a losing record, that this team was sent to Syracuse to pasture and retire.

A baseball season is however a story of its own. New manager Shamar Pate didnt buy into the dire predictions and the club added new talent while the older players played with pride and resolve. Ross Barnes was not discarded but moved to the top of the order and Bobby Mathews kept his place in the rotation. The new arm of Bill McGunnigle boosted the pitching staff and Bill Kelly stepped in the middle of the order and hit .331. The team began to win and the roster proved to have chemistry and some magic.

The fight continued all season with the Cleveland team who seemed to swap first place with Syracuse every other day. The stars persisted and prevailed however and the storybook was complete. In the history of the game no franchise has had more overall success, and the club now tries to be the first franchise to bring home three championships.

Cincinnati Brings Flag Home
Reds Hold Off Champion Chicago For 1st Pennant

It was building for a while but finally the fruits of their labor cam to fruition this year. The Reds had the best record in the game winning 65 times and holding off the favored White Stockings by seven games finishing the season on a 10 game winning streak.

It was Reds pitching that was dominant and tops in the league with a team best 2.11 ERA and Will White leading the league in wins with 26. Behind the pitcher was the best defensive group in the league and manager Jon Riker had the team playing top fundamental baseball that prevented runs.

Jim O'Rourke hit .374 and was the hammer in the middle of the order with 57 RBI. The greatest contribution came from fan favorite and league favorite Steve King wjo at the age of 37 hit .330 and drove in 51 runs with 19 doubles. The club is very well put together and we need to recognize that this season was truly one of the very best the league has ever seen.

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
World Series Edition



Stars Shine In Series Triumph
Seven Game Showcase Thrills Fans

When it mattered most, the Stars of Syracuse had what it took to claim the baseball championship of 1879 and became the first franchise to win it all three times.

After the Cincinnati club won two out for three games at home to take a 3-2 game lead in the series it looked like they were on their way. Syracuse would have to win the final two games of the series at home.

"There was a look in the eye of Barnes and Deacon before the final two games" said manager Shmar Pate. "It was a look of certainty even as the odds were against us." There really is no substitute for experience on the biggest stage where pressure is highest.

The Stars took the next two games as Bill McGunnigle beat Will White in game 6 and Frank Fleet got the win in the crucial game seven. Will Foley had 7 RBI in the series for the winning side.

Heartbreak for Cincinnati. In the process however their starter Blondie Percell threw two shutouts and 18 scoreless innings in two games to earn MVP honors in the series. He struck out five and was really something to watch.

[Nick Soulis]

1879 Awards

National League

Most Valuable Player



Outstanding Pitcher



American League

Most Valuable Player



Outstanding Pitcher



Other Awards

NL Manager of The Year - Jon Riker (Cincinnati)
AL Manager of the Year - Shamar Pate (Syracuse)
NL Rookie of the Year - Curry Foley (New York)
AL Rookie of the Year - John O'Rourke (Philadelphia)

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
December 1879
Edition 9.9

The 1879 Amateur Draft



Number One Pick
Fred Dunlap - 2B - Buffalo Bisons



Straight out of Philadelphia the most heralded pick this year was that of 20 year old Fred Dunlap. It is the first time in many years that the top pick goes to a position player and Buffalo who lost 64 games last season needs all the help they can get. It is quite difficult to find a weakness in the second baseman's game and some are already claiming he is among the best fielders in the league. It is talent like this that is making this draft one of the better ones scouts say we have seen yet.

Champions Move Again
Worcester The New Home Of The Ruby Legs

In a stunning move the champion Syracuse Stars have left New York and gone to Massachusetts to continue their legacy of winning baseball. Although the league frowned upon the move, there was little they could do to stop the move as teams are looking for more revenue and bigger ballparks putting loyal fans on the back burner.

There were some red flags and internal complaints that the city of Syracuse did not embrace their team as expected. Attendance to games did pick up as the team won throughout the season but there was not the normal celebrations after the championship. This appears to be a college town and may not be the best setting for a team with such stars and legends.

Worcester on the other hand threw a parade for their new men and a new wooden stadium at the Agricultural County Fair Grounds will be a perfect place it would appear to settle in.

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball

Best 9 Of 1880
Best Players At Each Position

Catcher - Jim O'Rourke - Cincinnati Reds



Leading the league in OBP and smarts, O'Rourke has surpassed the competition and become the best catcher in the game. O'Rourke leads the best pitching staff in the league and does so with confidence and sure hands. He is a .344 career hitter and struck out only 9 times all season. O'Rourke is a big reason why the Reds raised the flag last season.

First Base - Cap Anson - Chicago White Stockings



He has come full circle and every one in the game is glad to see Cap back on top. After a terrible off the field accident Anson worked his way back slowly but surely and established himself again hitting .368 in 46 games last year. He may not be as fast as he used to be but his batting eye is as good as ever and no first baseman in the league can match his natural baseball talent.

Second Base - Dick Hunt - Boston Red Stockings

The all-time hit leader and a career mark of .370, Hunt has every intention of ending his career as the best hitter of his generation. He learned much from the Wright school of hitting but has taken the craft to a new level. Hunt is not very fast but his defensive smarts and positioning are uncanny. Many say the young rookie Fred Dunlap is the heir apparent to take over at this position and it may not take him long to get there.

Third Base - King Kelly - Keokuk Westerns



They said he was a generational talent at catcher but now his manager is moving him to third base. Either way you look at it, Kelly is a rare talent who lead the league in average, slugging percentage, and OPS all for a last place team. He also lead the league with 18 triples and went deep three times. There seems to be only a matter of time before Kelly claims the MVP award.

Short Stop - Arthur Irwin - New York Mutuals



In a position that is surprisingly thin all across the league, the New York rookie is picked as the best at the position even though he hasn't taken the field yet. One may call it New York bias, but Irwin will start from opening day and is said to already be one of the leaders on the club at only 22 years old.

Left Field - George Gore - Buffalo Bisons



In his rookie season Gore lead the league in strikeouts but also mashed 20 doubles and scored 47 runs in limited action. Gore should really mature this year at 22 years old and talent scouts just love his tools at the plate. His nickname aside, Piano Legs does have an awkward style but this talented kid is ready for stardom and is someone to keep an eye on.

Center Field - Paul Hines - Chicago White Stockings



On the list yet again. Another seven WAR season for Hines leading the league in hits with 158 as well as OPS at .914. He is the mark of consistency and the main reason why Chicago is the winningest team in league history. Hines has been doing it since he was 17 and how he has not won an MVP yet is hard to figure. Look for another .350 average with 30 doubles and 70 RBI again this season.

Right Field - Gat Stires - Troy Trojans



His first time on this list and it is long past due and about time. Stires has been the most feared hitter in the league for years with the all time lead in home runs and RBI; he lead both categories again last year. He is also a .301 career hitter and is the only man to both score and drive in over 500 runs. He has taken over as the star of this team that has seen Lip Pike hang up his glove and only manage.

Starting Pitcher - John Ward - St. Louis Browns



Monte as he is called threw over 300 innings last year and won 15 games of a poor team with no run support. He held a 2.09 ERA and in his third year has a 138 career ERA+. There are many names that could be named as the best arm around, but Ward has everything a pitcher needs to make a long successful run at it. He has a 10.8 WAR in two seasons and 227 strikeouts.

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
Special Edition

1880 National League Preview

Chicago White Stockings
1879 Record: 58-38 (2nd)
Manager: Nick Young
Predicted Finish: 4th

In a stunning move the Chicago club which has the best winning percentage in league history, did not bring back their long time manager Charlie Pabor but hired Nick Young who also has quite a resume. Pabor will stay on as a player and the roster is still full of talent especially with Cap Anson back to 100% health. The pitching however has some age to it as Al Pratt comes back for another season at 32 years old and more responsibility will be placed on Tom Healey to throw more then the 84 innings he threw last season.

Buffalo Bisons
1879 Record: 32-64 (7th)
Manager: Tim Krikorian
Predicted Finish: 6th

New hope in Buffalo as the top pick and exciting talent of Fred Dunlap come to the fold. Dunlap will bat leadoff and herald the team in hopes he is an immediate star. New manager Tim Krikorian has much work to do but his player friendly approach may help. Fred Corey will try and become the ace of the team but with the likes of old Cherokee Fisher on the roster the pitching staff is very thin. George Gore should have a nice season and the Bisons expect to be more relevant and win at least over 40 games in the new campaign. How good will Dunlap be?

New York Mutuals
1879 Record: 49-47 (4th)
Manager: Joe Lemmens
Predicted Record: 2nd

The Mutuals look to break free from the mire of mediocracy and can hope to do so with the maturity of some of their young talent. Curry Foley will be asked to take his turn leading the staff in a role that has been hard to fill. Twenty year old Mickey Welch is a real glimmer of hope and can also swing the bat as a to way player, he is known for his constant smile. Ned Williamson is hoping to take a big step in his 3rd MLB season but some say the lights of New York are a distraction. Cal McVey comes back for another season as the most decorated player in franchise history and he is still only 30 years of age.

Cincinnati Reds
1879 Record: 65-31 (1st)
Manager: Jon Riker
Predicted Finish: 3rd

The Reds came so close to winning it all last season and will surely be in the mix again this season with their excellent array of arms in George Bradley and Will White. World Series hero Blondie Purcell however is expected to hit only and forego his pitching talent; the decision is said to be mutual. The NL MVP Jim O'Rourke should make a good run for another award as he is 29 years old and looking as good as ever. Tom Burns is the young new addition at 3rd base who has great speed and will bat leadoff. Finally, yes, Steve King is back as the starting left fielder at 37 years old and no one is expecting him to slow down.

Troy Trojans
1879 Record: 55-41 (3rd)
Manager: Lip Pike
Predicted Finish: 1st

Even after all these years the Troy lineup can still produce runs in bunches and make pitchers suffer. Gat Stires lead the league in slugging percentage and is the all-time leader in home runs while Jim Snyder had a 3 WAR last year and Jimmy Wood remains a capable veteran. Roger Connor is the new name that didnt get much time last year as a rookie but is expected to showcase his skills this year. Jim Devlin and Cy Bentley can almost match the arms of Cincinnati and Devlin won 20 games last year and is one of the most underated and consistent names in the league. Lip Pike is the perfect leader for this side and many think they are the most likely to lift the pennant.

Philadelphia Centennials
1879 Record: 37-59 (5th)
Manager: Jeremiah Harris
Predicted Record: 50-46

Can this team finally break through and have a winning season? The new hope is rookie starter Tim Keefe who at 23 years of age has some of the best poise and command of anyone. Emil Gross is an up and coming catcher who hit .361 while short stop Pony Sager is a fan favorite and great teammate. George Knight is likely the best reliever in the league and is actually used and effective in high leverage situations. Pud Galvin may have 119 losses in his career but is still just 23 years old. Jeremiah Harris is a first year manager and will have a chance to possibly lead the Centen's to the best season in franchise history.

Providence Grays
1879 Record: 34-62 (6th)
Manager: Alex Segura
Predicted Record: 32-64

Little to no hope remain in Providence but they are looking for modest improvement this season. Young star Dan Brouthers has given up his pursuit as a pitcher and has proven very adept with the bat. Harry Stovey and Fred Cone make for a decent outfield duo but nothing really get excited about. In his second season Pete McManus will get his chance to lead the rotation and the 20 year old may be green but has the skill. Bobby Mitchell who was the star arm of 1878 had quite a slide last season going from winning 30 games to losing 25, many are calling him a one year wonder, he will get a chance again this year. The Grays again likely will be fodder for a very strong division of teams.

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
Special Edition

1880 American League Preview

Boston Red Caps
1879 Record: 48-48 (3rd)
Manager: Harry Wright
Predicted Record: 4th

Going from the best record in the game to an even mark is quite the fallback but Harry Wright and his team always seem to find a way to stay relevant. It is true that the club is turning grey with the like of Al Spalding, George Wright, and Ezra Sutton still a big part of the fold. It looks like a rift between brothers has grown as Harry has benched George at end of last season. Jim Britt leads the pitching staff but it is top pick Charley Radbourn who the club hopes to mentor and build to a star. Dick Hunt will lead an offense that plays smart and gritty ball. Still the glory days here may have passed.

Cleveland Blues
1879 Record: 55-41 (2nd)
Manager: Al Barker
Predicted Finish: 2nd

Quite the turnaround last year for the Blues and they almost won it but lost out to experience in the end. Rookie Ned Hanlon will try to help the offense as the rookie has a very pretty swing and scoring runs wasn't always easy for this team. What Cleveland does well however is play defense and pitch with confidence. Joe Blong has lead the league in wins the last two seasons and has a career 1.88 ERA. George Zettlein and Candy Cummings are still solid even as their age creeps up. Wes Fisler and Aaron Clapp are two players that need to show more this season.

Philadelphia Athletics
1879 Record: 46-50 (5th)
Manager: Asa Brainard
Predicted Finish: 3rd

The other O'Rourke brother doesnt get as much attention as his brother Jim but still won rookie of the year last season and is of fine skill in centerfield. George Hall has been here a while and hit .326 last year but has always had the burden on not being able to win. The Scotman Jim McCormick has a career 2.13 ERA and with alittle more confidence can become elite. Second year manager Asa Brainard took baby steps with this club last season but again were stuck in the middle of the pack. Outfielder George Wood was the top pick in the draft and 23 year old starter Charlie Guth will get his chance in the rotation to make a mark under the tutelage of Brainard.

Worcester Ruby Legs
1879 Record: 56-40 (1st)
Manager: Shamar Pate
Predicted Finish: 5th

Champions again against all odds the Stars shocked everyone with their turnaround and manager Shamar Pate proved the critics wrong. Now the team up and heads to Worcester to try and bring a winner there and as everyone can see there are obvious fall offs from Deacon White and Ross Barnes but both will be back for another run. Dickie Flowers still gets it done at short and the hope is that Abner Dalrymple can build on his performance at only 22 year old in center. Frank Fleet and Bill McGunnigle with Joe Bordon expected to get another chance in the rotation; he lost 30 games a couple of seasons ago. Few expect this team to do it again but that means little to nothing to this bunch. Winning is a way of life.

Keokuk Westerns
1879 Record: 43-53 (6th)
Manager: Nate Berkenstock
Predicted Record: 6th

King Kelly is a joy to watch play the game and his personality can be polarizing especially for a losing club. Kelly seems stranded is a weak lineup as the likes of Black Jack Murdock will try and add some support and regain his form after a big drop off. Laurie Reis will once again try and regain his rookie season form as he is truly the only quality arm on the roster. Keokuk is in the unique position to have the most popular and maybe best player in the game on its roster and still be the worst team.

St. Louis Brown Stockings
1879 Record: 46-50 (4th)
Manager: Cortez Cachola
Predicted Finish: 1st

When the preseason predictions came out people were shocked to see that St. Louis will be a contender. John Ward has the reputation of a star in his third season at 20 years old and already 32 wins and a 1.90 ERA. Ward is joined by Fred Goldsmith who has 2,91 career ERA and won 17 games last year. Jack Farrell known as the Moose is only 22 but really looks like another star as he had 116 hits and 14 doubles in his first taste of the bigs. Young catcher Buck Ewing is another potential star and looking up and down the roster, the Browns may become a contender not just this season, but for years to come.

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
April 1880
Edition 10.2



Young Perfect Fit In Chicago
Talented Club Over The Moon To Open Season



The most eye-opening move this offseason was the managerial change in Chicago. The only manager the club had known was Charlie Pabor who did quite well for the team leading them through the great fire and winning two championships. The club did however fall off last season as the surging Cincinnati club took the flag, and a change was in order.

Pabor met with club ownership and was told the plan to have him step down to an on field player while the manager spot was saved for a big name. Nick Young had stepped away from managinf two seasons ago when his Washington club decided to leave the east coast. Young had no intention of going to manage in Syracuse and is the type of leader that wants to work in a big city. Getting back into the game with Chicago was the perfect fit.

Of course Young is known by his monicker, 'Uncle" and has one of the best managerial resumes ever. He won two championships in Washington including the inaugural league season of 1871. He won 336 games and held a winning percentage of .568. He helped lift stars like Ross Barnes, Bobby Mathews, and Deacon White to the heights of the game.

Chicago has now won 5 straight games in April to start the season and seem to be playing at another level. Cap Anson is back in full force at the leadoff spot and is hitting .425 while Ed Pinkham already has 3 home runs.

Young made a definitive remark about this team after their latest 6-5 win over Boston, "This is the most talented group I have ever managed". Quite a statement from a man with a significant past of talent.

Even Pabor back in his humble role is hitting .400 and seems content to help and play free without the burden of managing such a big pressure filled club.

Young Managerial History:

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
May 1880
Edition 10:3



Fair Or Out Of Bounds?
Controversial Home Run Field In Question



Up until this spring, a home run in the game has been a feat although rare, that fans have come to love. Many of the home runs are of the inside the par variety where speed and daring lead to the exciting play. A new field design in Lake Front park of Chicago has changed that notion for the time being, and many think it is an unfair advantage that takes away from the essense of the game.

The right field fence in this park was put into play to accommodate more fans into the Chicago ballpark, or at least that is what the club officials say. The fence is only 285 feet away from home plate making a convenient poke good enough to count as a home run. Obviously the Chicago players have been taking full advantage of this and it just so happens that their best power hitter swings it from the left side. Ed Pinkham is the alltime leader in triples and has been known for his power. For the previous 9 seasons however the slugger has hit a total of 22 home runs. This season he has hit 10 in just 22 games. Most all of them have come at home over the short porch in left field.

The all-time league leader in home runs is the powerful Gat Stires of Troy. Stires has hit 36 home runs in his career but is sure to be eclipsed by Pinkham this season who already has 32. The single season mark has already fallen in the first 2 months of the season, Pinkam's 10 homers passed Fred Treacey's previous record of 8 set back in 1871. Pinkham has a real chance to hit over 30.

Of course the park and the circumstances have garnered alot of doubt to their legitimacy. Many feel the short fence has taken away from the very nature and sportsmanship of the game. There are even rumors that some teams in the league are preparing a petition to do away with the short fence as soon as possible citing an unfair advantage. The Chicago club for their part makes it known that they have broken no league rules and that the short fence and any advantage is shared just the same by their opposition as both teams use the same field. The league has not made a comment on the situation and it seems very unlikely that league officials would force the club to change their home park midway through the season.

A Sportsmans Dream
New St. Louis Park Has Everything And More

The grandest of openings took place this spring as a new and first of its kind sports park opened in St. Louis. In what is being called "Sportsmans Park" the venue is full of open spaces and a wide variety of tastes for just about anyone. The park holds horse races, archery competitions, foot races, and even the circus came to town in March. All this hoopla is surrounding what is suppose to be the main attraction, which is the local St. Louis Brown baseball club.



To everyone's excitement, the Browns have made the most of the attention this season and sit in first place after two months of play. Dreams now have risen of Monte Ward and Jack Farrell bringing a pennant to the midwest city that is growing in reputation everyday.

It is another testament of the impact the national game has had on cities throughout the nation, now helping bring a new era of architecture and leisure for the American fanatic.

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
June 1880
Edition 10.4



Drama In Cincinnati
Pennant Winners Imploding Their Season



All the sweet memories of a fairytale season in Cincinnati where the Reds brought home the National League flag have taken a massive turn this year. Nine months ago the Reds clubhouse was a cohesive setting that seemed to be a big part of their success; winning and success seem to have brought nothing but drama to the club.

The Reds came out of nowhere to knock off Chicago and came just a game short in the World Series. Manager Jon Riker had his team believing especially on the pitching side where the club had four legitimate starters that they could throw onto the field at any given time. The starlet of the group was Will White who took home the Outstanding pitcher award with 26 wins. George Bradley and Blondie Purcell were the other two up and coming stars and Purcell especially made a name for himself with an outstanding World Series.

News shocked the club when Purcell supposedly asked to stop pitching and be a fulltime hitter. The decision was met with negativity by Riker and soon a rift began between the two men. More speculation came when sources claimed the reason for the Purcell decision to stop pitching came due to his teammate, the veteran Irishman Hugh Campbell. It is said that Campbell owns quite a bit of money to some people in town and needed to make sure he was in the starting rotation. He is said to be the reason Purcell stepped away leaving Campbell his chance.

Things really took a turn when Will White refused to pitch in the rotation with Campbell there instead of Purcell. Out of nowhere the Reds lost their two best pitchers from their rotation for non specific specified reasons. With White and Purcell watching, Campbell is 3-11 this season and has been easy pickings for opposing hitters. The Reds club is six games under .500 and 10 games out of first place and have allowed the second most runs in the league.

Finally under great pressure, White agreed to start some games again in June but he doesnt seem to have the same motivation. The lack of motivation also seems to have stung their offense that isn't nearly as dangerous as they were last year. Even old reliable Steve King is batting a career low .233 and finally looks his age.

Ultimately it all seems to fall on the manager, who has allowed the clubhouse to crumble around him. Losing is alot less fun then winning and one hopes that personal pride will outweigh personal feelings for the remainder of the season for the defensing pennant winners.

A New Titan
Waterbury Kid New Star Of Famous Club



The likes of current manager Lip Pike of power bat legend Gat Stires have truly been what the make up of a Titan has been. This historic franchise that has played in Philadelphia and currently is in Troy has always done one thing well, mash the baseball.

Pike of course is now focussed fully on managing but a new name is making sure the tradition stays alive as Troy sits just 2.5 games behind Chicago in the pennant race.

The new star was personally scouted and sought out by Pike himself when news of a powerful farm kid from Waterbury Connecticut came out. The Connor household didnt know much about the game but after Pike paid a visit to the small town he struck up friendships with the locals and convinced the young lad to come north to Troy.

In his first two seasons the young Connor mostly sat and watched the action learning on the job but as spring came around this year it was time for him to make his mark. The uniqueness of Connor is that he is a 'switch' hitter and hits well from both sides of the plate. This new ability has many coming out to see the talent first hand. Connor made the most of his playing time and truly it has all come together for him.

Connor has 2 home runs and is hitting .386 as the month of July begins. He is a perfect fit for the veteran Stires in the middle of the order with 10 doubles, 28 runs, and 15 stolen bases. He really has a knack for the game and has also been very steady at third base.

Rumors persist that the club is looking to move yet again, but wherever they play the Titans have found a new superstar to continue the legacy of the club behind the mastermind of Pike who many are already calling the new and better Harry Wright.

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
July 1880
Edition 10.5



A Frustrating Existence
The Cursed Luck Of Baseball in Cleveland



In many circles of philosophy, if you can not attain something, is it better to not have been close. The Cleveland baseball club has won .529 of their games played and has always been a competitive side. However seven finishes in second or third for the pennant over the years and not being able to bring home a championship or play well when it matters most, have a loyal fan base looking for spiritual answers.

The club started with a world of enthusiasm in 1871 as one of the pioneer franchise even getting a club before their Ohio rivals from Cincinnati. Levi Meyerle was truly a star of the game and brought great joy to the early days of the club. A shrewd owner however stunned the city when after two years he moved the club to Elizabeth where they won their only pennant and there after spent 4 years in Hartford. Only over the past two seasons have the club returned to where it was suppose to be, rekindling a love affair with their city.

Enigmatic manager Al Barker the Blues were lead by Wes Fisler and the Charmer George Zettlein and last season it looked like all would be right and that the Blues would lift the flag. In a heartbreaking finish however the club missed out by one single game on the final weekend of the season to the Worcester franchise, who won their fourth pennant. The pain was intense for the entire off season but no one could have predicted how the 1880 season would go.

The club seemed to lose its edge and couldn't hit or get on base as before. The .223 team average was far from good enough and the likes of Candy Cummings and Joe Blong lost command at pitchers. The team is 6-14 in one run games and 10-18 at their home park. They are 21-39 with the worse record in the league and 15 games out of first, their worst season by a long shot.

For a club that won 63 games last season, what other explanation can their be but a curse? Maybe one day Cleveland will dream and get it right, but the club is at their lowest point right now and the future truly is anyone's guess. Baseball truly is a funny game.

New York Shun Williamson
Hopeful Prospect Seems To Be At Odds



Another club that really can not brag about their recent performances are the New York Mutuals. The Mutuals are currently suffering another losing season and their lone championship of 1874 seems ages ago.

New York fans are not ones to be patient or accept poor performances. The city thinks big and expects big and the worst anyone can do s not to give their best effort. In 1878, 20 year old Ned Williamson took the team by storm and was built up as the name that would team with Cal McVey and carry the club to glory.

Although not spectacular, Williamson slowly came into his own and last year hit .301 and drove in 50 runs. But with expectations so high and the club not really winning on the field, Williamson was the target of some scorn from fans and press alike. It seemed however the kid could handle it.

Enter 1880 and the whistles are as load as ever for the now 22 year old third baseman. Williamson has fallen off his game hitting .236 with a .554 OPS. Even worse fans feel the player isn't even giving his best effort on the field. Rumors have started that Williamson was seen at certain "gentlemen's clubs" on days before a game and in turn it seems every turn he makes is scorned by supporters and the papers.

Williamson claims he is working as hard as ever but one can see the one time joyful smile of the young prospect has turned into a hard seriousness on the field.

As we mentioned about Cleveland, Baseball is a funny game.

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
August 1880



McBride At Peace In Troy
Trojans Leading Race Heading Into September

The Troy Trojans are at it again as they wrestled away the division league this month from both the Buffalo and Chicago clubs. On one of their typical runs lead by the one and only Lip Pike, Troy won 13 games while losing only two to position themselves for pennant number 4. The roster of course is filled with stars like Jimmy Collins, Gat Stires, and Roger Connor. Jim Devlin has won 17 games and is looking for more.

If you look hard enough however, you will see a familiar face in the shadows of the Troy bench placing himself next to the manager and only coming into the game when he is absolutely needed. This man is 33 year old Dick McBride.



McBride is the former manager of the Philadelphia Athletics who lead them for 8 seasons and even brought a championship to the city in 1872. McBride was also an ace pitcher for the team, managing from the mound and dominating every action of his side with a fierce appetite to win. Everyone knows that the fanatic in Philadelphia is a fickle as they come. The city wanted much more then one championship and expected a dynasty to the Athletics name.

The club suffered after their success and hit rock bottom in 1877 when the lost 63 games. At the time McBride was struggling as a pitcher but despite the storm, the manager refused to replace himself in the rotation and took the ball every other game. Fans and writers alike saw him as being selfish and refusing to accept that he could not play anymore. McBride also felt pressure as the city invited two new teams to compete in the league. Ironically one of them were the Philadelphia Whites lead by Lip Pike.

Stubborn as a mule, eventually Pike was forced out at the 1878 season. Fans celebrated his departure and the one beloved figure left town on an evening train with no one to wish him well. There were no callers for the 31 year old pitcher but hi former rival realized that if nothing else, McBride would bring his fire to win to his club. Pike welcomed McBride to the roster, and the veteran has fit right in, even acting as an assistant manager of sorts for the club.

With all the pressure off of him, the baseball gods have granted him favor as the Troy club is playing well and real hope for a magical year persists. Surely however as McBride glances over to the other league to see who Troy may be facing if they make it to the Series, sit the first place Philadelphia Athletics in the fittest of ironies.

Nolan Leaves Club In Crisis
Former Rookie Of The Year May Not See Field



The Philadelphia Centennials may be looking only their second ever winning record this year, but one of their most promising names has left the club. The 1878 rookie of the year who impressed the league with 20 wins and a 1.72 ERA may have pitched his last game.

McBride is said to have been suffering from a serious mental illness and a highly secretive incident occured this winter at his residence that included violence and alcohol. It is rumored through doctors recommendations that the 22 year not live a live in the spotlight with a big club but that he rather finds peace from the depression and addiction issues he is facing.

This is a publication of the great game of baseball. Beyond all of that, Baseball Monthly wishes the lad all the best even if he never picks up a baseball again.

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
September 1880
10.7



Golden Arms Of The Future
Three Arms Among Many Standing Out





A ten year evolution of the professional game has already come a long, long way. Master arms like Cherokee Fischer and Bobby Mathews may be fading away but as is the case in all areas of life, the new generation appears better then ever. Three arms are standing up beyond the rest in todays game, and an interesting rivalry seems to be evolving between them.

At 22 years old, Tim Keefe has earned the nickname of Smiling Tim as few players seem to have more fun playing a boys game. Keefe in his first season has really been something to behold for the Centennials. In 30 starts he has won 17 games for a poor club with a 1.73 ERA and 103 strikeouts. Keefe has a 145 ERA+, an astounding number for a player who is pitching in the league for the first time. At 6ft in height, his reach is a long one and his pure stuff may be the best the league has seen yet. Expect the Oklahoma native to earn rookie of the year honors this fall.

Jim McCormick is a validated star at 23 years old. The Philadelphia Athletics fans are enamored with the young man who is having one of the best pitching seasons we have seen and doing so as the club races towards a pennant. McCormick is in his third season and just seems to be getting better. This season he is 24-5 with a 1.67 ERA and a 0.78 WHIP. He has been accepted even tough he is born of Scotland and his accent can be heard from the grandstand to the street. McCormick has pinpoint control and in the spirit of Candy Cummings, throws a curve pitch that keeps hitters on their toes. McCormick has his eyes on becoming a Philly legend this season especially in the postseason.

Battling McCormick every step of the way, is John Ward of the St. Louis Browns. The Browns are tied with the A's as of this writing for first place and Ward is surely the single most influential factor in the resurgence of the midwest club. Ward of course came into the league at only 18 years old and has just gotten better from there. He is 17-12 with a 1.36 ERA and even finds time to come in as a reliever when he doesnt start and his team needs him. He is obvious leadership qualities and a 184 ERA+ this season speaks for itself. Monte is the call through the ranks as Ward has compiled 15.2 WAR in only three seasons.

Keefe of course plays in the National League but do not think for a minute he isnt paying attention to the other top arms in the game. The real rivalry of course is playing out between McCormick and Ward who have faced off numerous times already this year and a real tension can be felt when they face off. Everything is on the line come this October. Regardless, it is sure that these three arms , will be caretaking the game for a generation to come.

American League Flag On The Line
Philadelphia and St. Louis In A Tie Heading Into October

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
Special Edition

American League Playoff

The Game Of Philadelphia Glory
Widely Considered Best Game In League History



There are moments and games that define a generation and uplift the sport to rare heights; such was the ballgame at Jefferson Street Grounds for the American League pennant.

The Philadelphia Athletics and the St. Louis Brown Stockings are both franchises starved for success. The Athletics looked to have the flag wrapped up and needed only one win in their final three games but the pressure proved too much and they lost all three. The Browns scratched and the two teams finished even forcing a one game play off in Philadelphia.

The proximity of the two clubs meant that all parts of the country would have interest in this game like few have ever had. Making the drama even bigger was the pitching matchup for the game as the two sides gave the ball tl their young aces, Jim McCormick and John Ward.

Optimism filled the ballyard as the home Athletics scored twice in the first inning off some bad Browns defense; the visitors would have five errors on the day. All looked like it was going according to plan for Asa Brainard and his side but the visitors scored four times in the 6th inning and the complete collapse of the Athletics seem complete.

The game headed to the ninth where St. Louis was only three outs away from their first pennant. Couriers rushed to get the telegraphs back to the midwest. Two clean singles put the tying runs on base and the John O'Rourke became a legend ripping a fastball just over the centerfielders head tying the game after two men scored. After Andy Leonard hit into a double play, the game went into extras.

Of course neither pitcher was going to come out of this one. The Browns failed to scored and in the bottom of the 10th McCormick again came through with a leadoff single. A Tom Carey single sent McCormick to third with no one out. And then young Buck Ewing, the young catching star of only 21 years old for the Browns, missed the pitched baseball that rolled past him and the pennant clinching run crossed the plate amid pandamonium on a passed ball.

The World Series is set as Philadelphia will take on Troy. However on this overcast afternoon in Pennsylvania, few could argue that baseball was not at its very best.

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
World Series Edition



Philadelphia Claims Second Championship
Mythical Season For Athletics Delight City

Where there is a will there is always a way. The 1880 Philadelphia Athletics overcame every obstacle and picked themselves up when it seemed hope was lost to become champions. Along with their 1872 title, it was the second championship in franchise history.

Manager Asa Brainard gets almost all the credit for reviving a franchise that was lost and overlooked. Brainard who was a great pitcher, rallied his club and in only his second year brought the glory home. On the playing field however there is only one star, pitcher Jim McCormick capped a tremendous season winning three games and throwing 16 innings in the clinching game. He has won 62 games in his three year career and may now be the most famous arm the country has ever seen.

The series was a good one. The two clubs split the first four games with the Haymakers lead by Jimmy Wood proved that they belonged. The Trojans however commited 6 errors in game 5 to lose a close one 5-4. Game six proved to be all time classic as both teams refused to give in going 16 innings of tense ball. Andy Leonard had the big blow with a two run triple to give the A's the lead. McCormick closed the door in the bottom of the frame resolved after throwing 238 pitches.

John O'Rourke hit .444 in the series and Gat Stires hit three home runs. But the American League is the victorious side in what was a memorable and generation season of Major League Baseball.

[Nick Soulis]

1880 Awards

National League

Most Valuable Player



Outstanding Pitcher



American League

Most Valuable Player



Outstanding Pitcher



Other Awards

NL Rookie of the Year - Fred Dunlap (Buffalo Bsons)
AL Rookie of the Year - Charlie Guth (Philadelphia Athletics)
NL Manager of the Year: Lip Pike (Troy Haymakers)
AL Manager of the Year: Asa Brainard (Philadelphia Athletics)

Notable Retirements

Rynie Wolters (Chicago Whites) - 11.8 WAR 10 seasons
Fergie Malone (Troy Haymakers) - 4.0 WAR 7 seasons)

Other Notes

The Keokuk Westerns have officially moved to Detroit and become the Detroit Wolverines.

[Nick Soulis]

Historical Data

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
November 1880
Edition 10.8

The 1880 Amatuer Draft



Providence Nabs Whitney With Top Pick
Number One Choice In Nation 23 Year Old Talent



Providence looked to bolster their roster and believe the proper formula in doing so is through pitching talent. The club won only 32 games last year and is determined to turn over a new leaf in 1881.

Jim Whitney is a New York native with a perfect mustache and a 6'2 frame. In fact Whitney has earned the nickname Grasshopper Jim for his long limbs and flexibility. He will slip right into the Providence rotation and will get a real taste of big league hitting. The dream of any young man is to see what he can do against the very best. His control is excellent and he throws an interesting slider ball, that many hitters wont have seen before.

Massive Trade In National League
Williamson Leaving New York For Underachieving Arm

The biggest headliner of this offseason was a rare trade between franchise owners and two of their most popular stars. Ned Williamson, the prized talent of the Mutuals of New York just couldn't find his footing in the big city, and after run ins with fans and management, was looked to be shipped out.

A very willing taker were the Philadelphia Centennials. The Philly team drafted ace arm George Derby to go along with Terry Keefe in what could be among the best rotation's in baseball. This left the often overlooked arm of Pud Galvin, who never seemed to reach is potential. Galvin, like Williamson, likely just needs a change of scenery and a will get his chance in the Mutual rotation to revive his career.

It really should be quite fascinating to who gets the better of this swap, and how these two potential stars pan or fizzle out.

[Nick Soulis]

This Month In Baseball
February 1881
Edition 10.1

Best 9 Of 1881

Catcher - King Kelly - Detroit Wolverines


A one season experiment at first didn't work out and Kelly is back behind the plate. A new locale in Detroit should bring back big production after a down year for the 23 year old. He is still considered a revelation at the position and his popularity keeps growing.

First Base - Roger Connor - Troy Haymakers


Lead the league with a .341 average and 141 hits, Connor also stole a league leading 48 bases and scored 76 runs. Truly a five tool all around talent, Connor is the darling of Lip Pike's talented club and the table setter for the meat of the order.

Second Base - Fred Dunlap - Buffalo Bisons


Taking the league by storm in his first season, Dunlap has brought the future of the game to life. He had 30 doubles and 40 steals and earned the nickname, 'sure shot.' An excellent defender around the middle of the diamond he has rare intelligence for his ripe age of 21.

Third Base - Cap Anson - Chicago White Stockings


Anson has refined his game after his injury and uses all fields to do his damage. A close to 5 win WAR player, Anson plays like a player manager and is the main reason the Whites had another winning season. Anson has also become one of the most influential voices in the modern game.

Short Stop - Jack Glasscock - St. Louis Browns


A position a lot weaker then expected, Glasscock gets the nod for his outstanding defense and being such a factor in helping turn this franchise around. He has been named 'pebbly' because he can pick the ball under any field conditions. Glasscock has made plays in the hole that no one else has even attempted before. He doesn't excel at the plate, but has good speed and has stole 62 bases in 4 seasons.

Left Field - Jim Foran - Boston Red Stockings


The most triples and homers in the AL with a slugging percentage of .599. Foran is the prized student of Harry Wright and his .949 OPS shows how dangerous he is. Foran has lead the league 3 times already and has started every game in franchise history.

Center Field - Gat Stires - Troy Haymakers


Stires has been a pillar of consistency as he enters his age 31 season. He hit a career high 13 home runs and remains the all-time leader with 48. He drove in 81 runs and is hitting .300 for his career. Being very overlooked, it is close to a travesty that Stires has never won an MVP.

Right Field - Ed Pinkham - Chicago White Stockings


Yes the porch in West Side grounds is very short, but the 24 home runs Pinkham hit were still a wonder around the game. He also lead the league in RBI and walks earning a 1.055 OPS. Pinky is confident and load voice on the field. His competitiveness make him a public enemy outside Chicago.

Pitcher - Jim McCormick - Philadelphia Athletics


His performance in the World Series will truly go down into legend as will his 26 wins. Many dont exactly see great stuff when he goes to the mound but few have the same intensity and commitment to fool and defeat the batters. McCormick shines out most in a league full of great pitching talent. To the champion goes the nod.