BASEBALL MONTHLY
March 1875
Chicago Confident of Unseating Boston
It is a daunting task indeed that the Chicago White Stockings have before them as they break camp for the 1875 season, The Boston team cruised to the pennant last season and have a core strong enough that almost eveyone is picking them to get to the title again.
"We are confident in our abilities," says Cap Anson, "hopefully they celebrated a bit too much in the offseason."
In prep for te season the Whites did make a trade in the offseason. Chicago sent first baseman Jim Foran to Philadelphia for short stop Ham Allen. Foran was not fitting in at the club and was said to be a distraction on and off the field batting only .197 last season.
The pitching of the team is still a bit of puzzle, but Hugh Campbell is said to have the inside track to start the season with J Oneil competing for the job as well.
A good start could be key for the Whites.
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National League Team Snapshot
Boston Red Stockings
The two time defending world champions see no reason to slow down. Cy Bentley and Deacon White are two of the biggest stars in the game and are joined by a deep lineup with Ross Barnes and Clipper Flynn. No one expects Boston to slip up this season barring any injuries.
Brooklyn Atlantics
The Atlantics have alot to prove in the big city and so much still rides on the arm of Al Pratt. The Atlantics are still old school thinkers and believe that one strong arm is good enough for a good team, with a 60 game schedule that will be quite a challange. Davy Force the talented 3rd baseman is the big bat in the lineup. The Atlantics want to compete seriously for their first pennant but really need to stay strong and consistent to do so.
Cincinnati Reds
The Reds are looking to rebound from a nightmare of a season. After starting 2-18 the team recovered to play respectable balls the rest of the way, but good enough to compete? Most would say not. Levi Meyerle is still one of the most popular players in the game but the big question is if Cal McVey can respond to his 1873 form where he won the MVP award. The Reds have talent but would suprize alot of people if they wernt out of the race by July.
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League Tidbits
In the offseason a handful of players retired. The most notable name to end his career was Dickey Pearce the Boston short stop. Fred Waterman retired as well but the move was expected after his terrible injury last season.
The Philadelphia Athletics lost second baseman Wes Fisler for the entire upcoming season after the player broke his elbow in a fall during a preseason game. The "Icicle" batted .240 last season in 204 at bats.
The Baltimore Canaries changed their name to the Baltimore Orioles.