BASEBALL MONTHLY
March 1893
SPALDING TAKES OVER FOR 93 SEASON
In a move that suprised some but had others saying it was a foregone conclusion; the Chicago Colts announced that Charlie Comiskey would be relieved of his duty as team manager to make way for a familiar face. Al Spalding who has seen success in almost every aspect of his life steps in as the new Chicago manager whirling in a new wave of momentum and enthusiasm to the team.
The Colts and the city of Chicago are itching to get back into the championship form that has been their expectation since their inception. Spalding is sure to bring a winning feeling and fire as no man won more games on the mound then he did.
"Mr. Spalding is the man to take this team forward and make them the success that befits them" said the team owner this month before the team began preparations for the new season.
Comiskey was a perfectly even record in his three years managing the team. he collected a 231-231 record.
Best Outfield in the Game?
Elmer Smith is the big new name in Chicago and the outfielder joins an already very good core of fielders making many take notice. Smith comes over from the White Sox and is a .295 career hitter including batting .330 last season.
Smith joins Jocko Halligan and Sam Thompson in an outfield that Chicago hopes will produce a world of runs. Along with these stars Billy Shindle signs with the team as the new 3rd baseman. Shindle is a good team player and carries with him a good glove.
"We love the changes we have made here and if we can stay healthy we feel we can compete with anyone" says new manager Spalding.
Of course the biggest concern for the team is the arm of Charlie Geggus. Geggus is back in camp and is expected to be ready by opening day; Geggus however is rumored to still have some arm issues due to his delivery type. Team success depends greatly on the righty being at his best.
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League Notes
Great Barnes Gives Up The Game
One of the very best players to play has ended his career after 20 seasons. Ross Barnes finished on his own terms and left the game despite many teams still asking him to play.
No player was as smooth or as consistent as Barnes who's popularity grew to enourmous proportions as the game became more wide spread. Barnes sitll holds the highest career batting average at .342, Barnes also batted .400 in 1875 and won 3 MVP awards.
Mike Tiernan
The champion Boston Amercians are all business about repeating. They broke the bank and signed highly touted talent Mike Tiernan. Tiernan is clearly one of the best left handed bats in the game.
Mike Griffin has joined the Boston Beaneaters for over 6000 follars. Griffin wants a champiosnhip and has his chance with the strong roster and lineup in Boston.
The Philiadelphia Phillies are serious about winning and brought Jim Handiboe into their rotation. Handiboe has won 150 games already at the age of 26 and has a great future in the game.