May 9, 1922
BASEBALL NAMES FEDERAL JUDGE AS FIRST COMMISSIONER
Fearing more public backlash from the 1921 World Series fiasco and concerned that future World Series could also be subject to allegations of fixing, the American League and National League jointly announced today the Kenesaw Mountain Landis would take over as commissioner of baseball.
Landis, who has served as a federal judge, was given complete control by team owners to act in the sports best interest. He has made no secret that his first task will be to conduct a complete investigation into the events surrounding last October's World Series and Landis has promised he will deal with any player found to have consprired with gamblers swiftly and harshly.
Since word first surfaced last week about Landis' impending appointment the Cincinnati Reds have lost 6 of their last 7 games. The only Reds pitcher to win a game last week was, surprisingly, Lefty Gervais. The 31 year old who is heavily suspected of being one of the ringleaders in the alledged conspiracy, has not let the controversy affect his game. Gervais, who won the Charlie Geggus Award last season, is off to a 5-1 start with a 3.44 era. Slugger Babe Ruth, who's name has also come up, appears to be unaffected either. Ruth hit 3 homeruns last week and is batting .398 with 7 homers and 19 rbi's through 25 games this season. Ruth has denied having any involvement in the fix.
Meanwhile, Edd Roush, who has remained silent on the subject, hit just .176 last week and is 3-for-17 on the season. Roush did not play in April due to what the team is calling an undisclosed illness. The other main suspects in the conspiracy no longer play in Cincinnati. Tod Sloan retired after admitting his involvement after money was traced to his wife's bank account. Elmer Smith was dealt to the Chicago Cubs while Vic Saier is with Cleveland.