The baseball void that has existed in New York City is something hard to explain into words to the basic sports person. A city that prides itself on being the best at everything it does has been an embarasment in the sport of baseball since the pro leagues began. This winter however the city of New York did what it does best, it bought its way to getting one of the most succesfull franchises in the game, to assure that indeed baseball will reign in the Big Apple.
None other then the American League pennant winners from Baltimore will now call New York their home. The big city promised a new ball park and a jackpot of revenue, something the city of Baltimore at the current time just couldnt match. A new park at a Hill top on Manhattan has prompted the new team to be called the Highlanders and the contrast of excitement and sorrow for the two cities could not have been more dramatic.
Baltimore held protests to their city officials and threats were made at the owners of the team and American League president Ban Johnson. Still it was the Oriole fans that were left out in the cold, leaving behind memories of a team they supported to three wordl championships. There are no plans to replace a team in Baltimore although the mayor has done his best to stem fears that they wont be back in a major league again.
In New York heroes were welcomed and none more so then the ace right hander of the team, Christy Mathewson. Mathewson has been mobbed at every apperance he has made and no one can remember when expectations for a player have been higher, all for a kid who is still just 22 years old. Also welcomed with huge receptions is Billy Hamilton who has signed with the new club. Hamilton has made a miraculous comeback to the game of baseball and his presense on the club has been anticipated and touted by all.
New York in fact does have another team, the Giants but only a few very loyal fans are sticking with the old side. The Giants in many peoples view have embarassed the city, not having won a single pennant in their 21 year history and also currently sit 100 games under .500 since that time.
In the end it all seems to be about the money, and at the moment the countdown to opening day that reign all around times square are the loudest thing going. The biggest city in the nation has bought what could be the best team in the nation.
Mack Says Cubs Not In Rebuilding Mode
The Chicago Orphans have now officially changed their name to the Chiacago Cubs but manager Connie Mack says there will not be a complete change in the team. The Cubs finished third last season and didnt look very competitive next to the defending champion Cincinnati Reds.
The Cubs made a few moves this offseason by trading the likes of Duff Cooley and Amos Rusie. Rusie was a member of the team for seven seasons but will continue for the Pirates. Short stop Scott Hardesty joins the roster along with Tom Donovan from Cleveland. Finally Mack has moved Roger Bresnehan from catcher to center field to make room for the solid hitting Ossee Schreckengost behind the plate. Osee is a much better field general and should help the Chicago staff that still remains amomg the most talented in the league.
The story of Charlie Geggus and if the 41 year old right hander will return to the team are still up in the air. Geggus, who has played 12 years for Chicago is sitting on 298 career wins but is recovering from a rotator shoulder issues. Whatever his role is is surely to be almost nonesistent.
End of the road at 298 wins?
The Cubs 1903 roster:
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CATCHERS
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INFIELDERS
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OUTFIELDERS
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