1915 National League Rookies
Dave Bancroft, SS, Age 24, Phillies
The Phillies need help at almost every offensive position, but few have been less productive offensively over the past decade than shortstop. That should end with the arrival of Bancroft, who is both adept at getting on base as well as an expert fielder. This is a great addition for Philadelphia. Now, if they can get some more batters to go along with their great pitching staff.
Jesse Barnes, SP, Age 22, Braves
Barnes is a solid pitcher who should continue to solidify Atlanta's pitching staff. He should crack the starting rotation this season.
Rogers Hornsby, 2B, Age 18, Cardinals
One of the greatest MLB hitters of all time, Hornsby will give the Cardinals a much needed jolt. Fortunately, he can play just about anywhere. The Cardinals have several productive players in their lineup already, so it will be interesting to see where Hornsby starts his career. He should be the odds-on favorite for batting titles, OPS titles and BoY Awards for years to come in the NL.
"High Pockets" Kelly, 1B, Age 19, Giants
Kelly is a very good hitter and an expert fielder as well. The trick for San Francisco will be finding time for him to play since
Fred Merkle (.253, 25 HR, 80 RBI) holds down first base and former BoY
Larry Doyle (.285, 32 HR, 105 RBI) is at second.
Bob O'Farrell, C, Age 18, Cubs
O'Farrell is a fine young catcher, but he will have to compete for time with
Bubbles Hargrave (.286, 14 HR, 56 RBI) who is superior offensively but inferior defensively.
Dazzy Vance, SP, Age 23, Pirates
Vance is an absolute star in the making. Pittsburgh's already-crowded pitching staff will have to make room for him in the rotation. He looks almost like the second coming of Pittsburgh great
Rube Waddell. He will almost certainly lead the NL in strikeouts, just as he did many times in his MLB career.
Ken Williams, LF, Age 24, Reds
Williams is a little-known outfielder with a ton of talent. He hits for average, has a ton of power and plays good defense. He will immediately provide a new leader for the Reds offense and could help lead them back to the top of the pennant chase.
