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"No Reserve Clause," Says Federals
NEW YORK, NY. January 2, 1912 - Federal League President John T. Powers announced in a statement yesterday that his new venture wanted "Nothing to do with the reserve clause."
"We have no intention of raiding teams," he said. "We will respect the National Association and only go after semi-pros, free agents, and unsigned youngsters. We will develop our own players."
Powers also announced that plans called for a six-team circuit in 1912. The initial cities are Chicago, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, St. Louis, Indianapolis, and Cincinnati. Five of the cities are already occupied by major league teams, and two of them already have two established franchises.
The Federals may not plan on raiding the rosters of major league teams, but this announcement may get a rise out of the American and National League executives.
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