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Tiger Fan · 06-21-2023, 05:13 PM

JULY 7, 1947

ALL-STAR GAME ROSTERS UNVEILED

Bobby Barrell Named For Record 11th Time

The rosters have been finalized for the 15th annual All-Star Game, set to take place at Sailors Memorial Stadium in Philadelphia tomorrow. The lineups, which include 19 first-time all-stars, are highlighted once again by Bobby Barrell as the Keystones slugger becomes the first player to be selected 11 times for the midseason classic. Barrell is having another dominant season at age 36, batting .336 with 38 homers and 69 rbi's at the break and seems to be on course to threaten Max Morris' single season homerun mark of 60.

Barrell's brother Harry is back in the all-star game as well, making his 8th appearance after a six year absence from the annual spectacle. Pittsburgh catcher George Cleaves and Adam Mullins, catcher for the Cincinnati Cannons, are each selected for the ninth time.
Here are the rosters for tomorrow's game.

Code:

MOST ALL-STAR SELECTIONS
11* Bobby Barrell    Keystones
10 Tom Bird          Retired
9  Frank Vance       Retired
9* Adam Mullins      Cincinnati 
9* George Cleaves    Pittsburgh
8  John Lawson       Retired
8* Fred McCormick    Toronto
8* Harry Barrell     Boston
7  Hank Barnett      Brooklyn
7* Mel Carrol        Washington
7  Pete Day          Boston
7  Ron Rattigan      Chiefs
6  Sal Pestilli      Cougars
6  Fred Galloway     Cincinnati
6  Leo Mitchell      Cougars
6  Dean Astle        Boston
6  Pablo Reyes       Chiefs
6  Moxie Pidgeon     Retired
6* Bill Barrett      Stars
6* Red Johnson       Gothams
6*  Al Miller        Chiefs
6* Freddie Jones     Stars
6* Skipper Schneider Cougars
*selected to 1947 ASG

ALL-STAR REPRESENTATIVS BY TEAM

BROOKLYN- 5 Johnny Slaney (1), Solly Skidmore (1), Juan Pomales (1), Ralph Johnson (1), John Moss (1)
NY STARS- 5 Chuck Cole (4), Eli Panneton (2), Freddie Jones (6), Mack Sutton (1), Bill Barrett (6)
WASHINGTON- 5 Ike Keller (4), Buckeye Smith (1), Mel Carrol (7), Jesse Alvardo (2), Rats McGonigle (2)
CHIEFS- 4 Gus Goulding (2), Al Miller (6), Tim Hopkins (1), Artie D'Alessandro (1)
COUGARS- 4 Donnie Jones (2), Walt Pack (3), Skipper Schneider (6), Hal Sharp (2)
DETROIT- 4 Carl Potter(1), Dick Estes (1), Edwin Hackberrry (1), Sid Williams (2)
SAILORS- 4 John Thomas Johnson (1), Win Lewis (2), David Molina (2), Woody Stone (5)
BOSTON- 3 Ray Dalpman (2), Billy Dalton (3), Harry Barrell (8)
CINCINNATI- 3 Adam Mullins (9), Denny Andrews (3), Charlie Rivera (1)
NY GOTHAMS- 3 Ed Bowman (5), Sam Hodge (1), Red Johnson (6)
ST LOUIS- 3 Danny Hern (3),Tony Dixon (1), Al Tucker (5)
TORONTO- 3 George Garrison (3), Fred McCormick (8), Chink Stickels (3)
KEYSTONES- 2 Roger Cleaves (1), Bobby Barrell (11)
CLEVELAND- 1 Davey Morris (1)
MONTREAL- 1 Jack Spahr (1)
PITTSBURGH- 1 George Cleaves (9)

Code:

		PAST ALL STAR GAME RESULTS
YEAR  LOCATION		 RESULT                        WINNING PITCHER           MVP
1933  Whitney Park       Federal 8 Continental 5      Ben Curtin STL         Pete Asher Pit
1934  Riverside Stadium  Federal 11 Continental 7     Chick Stout Pit	     Tom Taylor Cougars
1935  Broad Street Park  Federal 5  Continental 2     Art Myers Keystones    Freddie Jones StL
1936  Pioneer Field	 Continental 6 Federal 4      Tom Barrell BKN        Dick Walker Sailors
1937  Dominion Field     Federal 4 Continental 2 (19) Don Attaway Keystones  Don Attaway Keystones
1938  Bigsby Oval	 Continental 5 Federal 4 (13) Bob Cummings BKN       Fred McCormick TOR
1939  Forester Stadium   Continental 6 Federal 3      Art White BKN          Fred McCormick TOR
1940  Thompson Field	 Federal 7 Continental 4      Red Hampton Chiefs     Billy Woytek Keystones
1941  Kings County       Continental 8 Federal 4      Pete Papenfus Cougars  Fred Galloway Cincinnati
1942  Fitzpatrick Park   Federal 7 Continental 4      Ed Wood BOS            Hank Barnett Chiefs
1943  Parc Cartier	 Continetal 7 Federal 3       Dick Lyons, Cougars    Gail Gifford, StL
1944  Columbia Stadium   Federal 1 Continental 0      Ed Bowman, Gothams     Don Miller, Wash
1945  Cougars Park       Federal 8 Continental 4 (10) Bill Anderson, Pit     Chick Donnelly, Bos
1946  Minutemen Stadium  Continental 2 Federal 1      Richie Hughes, Cle     Sig Stofer, Wash
1947  Sailors Memorial

FABL BEST OF THE WEEK

GOTHAMS DEAL CASSTEVENS

All-Star Catcher Sent to Chiefs

Another day, another deal for the once more retooling New York Gothams. After sending Sal Pestilli to the Chicago Cougars a week ago, the Gothams sent another all-star to the Windy City as catcher Pete Casstevens was dispatched to the Chicago Chiefs. While TWIFB questioned the return the New Yorkers received for Pestilli, there are no such worries with the haul they received for the 28-year-old Casstevens. The move, clearly a decision from Chiefs brass to go all in an effort to catch the surprising St Louis Pioneers for top spot in the Federal Association, sees Chicago send its first and second round picks along with what OSA ranks as the Chiefs top four prospects in outfielder Dick Steel, shortstop Lou Hooker and pitchers Dick Mills and Chuck Briggs.

The 23-year-old Hooker made his FABL debut this season and is batting .265 in 21 big league games. The other three prospects are all 19 or 20 and presently playing in Class B. None are a can't miss prospect with Steel the only one of the four to crack the OSA top 50 so there is clearly risk on New York's part put the Chiefs draft picks stand a much better chance of being lottery selections than the first rounder the Gothams added from the Cougars for Pestilli. In all, the Gothams now own three first rounders and two second round picks in the January draft.

While we have few concerns with the return the Gothams received from Chicago, we do have a big worry about the deal. That would be how do the Gothams survive the season without anything resembling a big league catcher in their organization? They have career minor leaguer Cliff Leiby -with 12 games of big league experience- as the backup to Casstevens at the moment with just Josh Porter and Gussie Harris at AAA, neither of whom is expected to contribute much. Perhaps the Gothams give the job to untested Ray Miller - a 23-year-old 1942 fourth round selection with some promise who is hitting .236 in in 85 games of AA expeirence over the past season and a half. Or do they make a deal for an established catcher?

Casstevens is an outstanding defensive catcher who can provide some offensive pop as well and should fit in very nicely both in the Chiefs lineup and at Whitney Park with it's cozy leftfield line. The move means the Chiefs may end up eventually parting ways with Dino Robinson, a 23-year-old who has not looked out of place in the Chiefs lineup after being acquired from the Keystones two years ago.
*** Fed Picture is Cloudy ***

These moves certainly jumble things up in the Federal Association. If there was any doubt the Gothams were looking to the future after the Pestilli move, this deal certainly seems to confirm it as they no longer have a big league quality catcher. The Chiefs have made some big moves over the last twelve months, certainly enhancing their pennant hopes with additions like first baseman Tim Hopkins and now Casstevens. They still might be a piece or two short and their minor league prospect cupboard -already fairly bare- is now pretty much empty although Robinson does remain a pretty solid trade chip should they find the right piece to target.

It will be very interesting to see how St Louis reacts. The Pioneers are in the lead and have been nearly all season but as New York Daily Mirror columnist John Brinker observed "you can't help but feel they are a Danny Hearn injury away from fading." Will St Louis pull the trigger on a big deal over the next four weeks to help with those dreams of ending a pennantless stretch that dates all the way back to 1921?

What of Detroit? The Dynamos brass has said it will not move any of its strong core of young talent but the Detroit nine is clearly just a bat or two away from mounting a serious challenge this summer. If Detroit stays close does management give in and make a move to try and accelerate the rebuild in the Motor City? That is something that has been tried before in recent years and came up short -ultimately setting the Dynamos recovery back.

Now that New York is seemingly out of the mix do the Washington Eagles or Philadelphia Keystones get aggressive prior to the deadline, knowing there is one less bigtime player in the picture for the rest of the season and quite possibly the next couple as well. Or does New York do a sudden about-face and try and package those three first rounders into an ace arm, and likely a catcher, to try and charge right back into the mix?

It should be an interesting July in the Federal Association, but then isn't it always.

MINERS FIRE SKIPPER LIBBY

Late news out of Pittsburgh confirms that the Miners have relieved manager Bill Libby of his duties. Libby was in his second year running the Pittsburgh bench but the Miners are sitting in last place in the Federal Association with a 33-51 record. The club also announced that third base coach Charley McCain will take over on an interim basis but will be given an opportunity to earn the job full-time. The 51-year-old McCain joined the Miners at the start of the 1946 season along with Libby. He never played in the big leagues but did spend some time with Sacramento in the Great Western League and played college ball for Garden State before moving on to coach in the collegiate ranks. This marks the first time in the modern era the Miners have made a managerial change during the season.

The 60-year-old Libby, who had a brief stint with the Montreal Saints in his playing days, made his mark as a pitching coach in holding that role for World Championship Series winners in Detroit and Brooklyn. After helping the Kings to three straight pennants, Libby received his first chance to manage in the big leagues when he was handed the reigns for the Philadelphia Keystones. He spent five seasons with the Keystones before leaving following the 1943 campaign when the club elected not to renew his contract. Libby signed with Pittsburgh prior to the 1946 season and the team finished 6 games under .500 for him last year. Libby is 498-510 all time as a manager.

COASTAL STATE SOPHOMORE MILLER WINS CHRISTIAN TROPHY

Shortstop Tom Miller of the Coastal State Eagles has been named the winner of the 1947 Frank Christian Trophy, presented annually to the top player in collegiate baseball. The 21-year-old, who will be eligible for the FABL draft in January, led the college ranks in homeruns with 15 while batting .339 and playing solid defense for the South Carolina school. The Philadelphia native is a likely first round draft pick as OSA scouts feel he will be an everytday shortstop who can make an impact on a top-tier team.

Miller, who helped lead the Eagles to the second round of the AIAA tournament for the second year in a row, claimed six of the seven first place votes for the award. The other ballot had Miller behind Carolina Poly freshman pitcher Johnny Young, who finished second in the voting, and shortstop Irv Clifford, a junior from Charleston Tech who was drafted second overall in January by the Pittsburgh Miners.

Miller becomes the first shortstop to ever win the award and joins two-time winner Bill Moore, Freddie Jones and Sam Orr as the only infielders to win a Christian Trophy.

Interesting to see the New York Gothams tearing things down again. Word is the Dynamos tried to get in on the buying frenzy but were rebuffed in their attempts to bring Sal Pestilli back to Thompson Field. Detroit refused to part with any prospects but was reportedly willing to send veteran pitcher Dixie Lee to New York in order to liberate Sal. In a lot of ways that move might have made more sense for the Gothams as Lee could perhaps have been the piece they needed to turn things around. Instead Sal went to the Continental Chicago clan and the Gothams shockingly moved another former Dynamos draft pick in Pete Casstevens to the Windy City Feds. Now, New York is dangling the picks they received in those deals for a top noth pitcher - say a Dixie Lee type- but word is they want someone younger than Lee. No idea who is going to crouch behind the plate at Gothams Stadium as they don't have a catcher any more. Really feels like the Gothams are using all those confusing street signs in Manhattan as their inspiration. Feels like no one in that organization has any idea which direction they are going.
*** Dynamos Hanging in Race ***

It is the all-star break and congrats to the three young Dynamos who will be making their first -of what we hope is many- trips to the all-star game. Carl Potter, Edwin Hackberry and Dick Estes are all very deserving and can rely on veteran Sid Williams to show them around. Williams is hardly an all-star regular -certainly no where near Bobby Barrell's record 11th appearance- but he is back for his second trip to the summer classic. Williams popped out as a pinch-hitter to end the 1941 game won by the Continentals 8-4 in Brooklyn.

Fans of the electric bolt have to be pretty happy looking at the standings today and see the Dynamos in second place. The rebuild is going quicker than expected, but there are some doubts the club can keep it up. Washington is very much in the mix and the Chiefs have added some pieces as well. You also have to think that Philadelphia is not willing to waste this amazing season Bobby Barrell is having on a second-division club. But unless someone can step up and join Lloyd Stevens as a productive contributor on the Keystones mound that might be just where they end up.

There was a crazy rumour circulating the Dynamos had sent a note to Toronto asking about Fred McCormick. If true, he would be a big addition and maybe the bat the Dynamos needed to put them over the top. Alas, Toronto sources insist McCormick is going to retire with the Wolves and probably just as well, as the price would be more than the Dynamos should likely be willing to pay, as the best course right now is stick with the plan to let all of their young talent develop together.
*** Ice Eagles Folding Good for NAHC, But Bad for Motors ***

While nothing official has been released by the league, it is clear that after years and years of rumours the Brooklyn Eagles have finally flown for the last time. Even in the late 1930's there was talk of the Eagles -run by current Detroit head scout Bill Yeadon back in those days- was being squeezed out by the Bigsby's. Maroons owner Rollie Barrell and several others rode to the rescue back then and the club found new life in Daniel Prescott's basketball stadium in Brooklyn. The team was awful on the ice, and few fans bothered to show up, leading to the rumours of its demise - rumours that now finally were realized.

A 6-team NAHC will be a much more stable loop. It is easier to schedule games, increases the talent pool and ensures that two-thirds of the league owners will get at least some playoff revenue. The problem is the timing could not be worse for the Detroit Motors as far as divying up the talent in Brooklyn. The Eagles really have two star quality players in 24-year-old goal scoring machine Quinton Pollack and 31-year-old legend Tom Brockers between the pipes. Those two seem all but assured of going to Toronto and Montreal, the teams that missed the playoffs along with the Eagles last season. New York finished fourth and picks third with promising 20-year-old defenseman Robert Sharpley the likely prize, unless Montreal grabs him instead of Brockers. So with the three stars gone, each making the three teams that finished below the Motors a year ago a fair bit better, a second straight trip to the playoffs might just be a tough ask for Motor City icemen.

Gothams Notes:

Fan interest plummets along with the team's pennant chances. The trading of Sal Pestilli and Pete Casstevens along with the injury to Mahlon Strong have Gothams fans despondent to say the least.
Jim Lonardo now sits at #5 all time in games started with 610 having broken a tie this week with Rabbit Day.
First round pick Cecil LaBonte debuts at #5 on the top prospect list and has been assigned directly to AAA Toledo.
Newly acquired SS Lou Hooker will share starting duties in New York with Tom Jeffries.

RACE TIGHTENS IN COAST LOOP

The Oakland Grays completed a 3-game sweep of the first place Dallas Centurions over the weekend, tightening up what is turning out to be quite a race for the top two spots in the Great Western League and with them berths in the Bigsby Cup. The Centurions have dropped 8 of their last 11 contests and as the season hits the midway point there are four teams separated by just two games at the top of the league.

The Centurions, led by a high scoring office accumulated in no small part due to big money contracts that lured former FABL regulars Brooks Meeks, Ken Mayhugh and Heinie Billings west, still lead the way, a game and a half up on both the Grays and the Los Angeles Knights. The Knights, who lost to San Francisco in the inaugural Bigsby Cup a year ago, rely heavily on their pitching staff including ex-FABL regulars Karl Wallace and Bob Cummings. Oakland is getting a career year out of Frankie Cohen, who spent a few seasons with the Chicago Chiefs. Cohen lead the GWL in hitting and has been hovering around the .400 mark all season. Two other big reasons for the Grays success has been the work of Jim Hawkins and Cy Sullivan on the mound as the duo has combined for 18 wins in the first half. Pete Layton's Portland Green Sox are right in the mix as well and boast of some familiar FABL names in Johnny Guzzo, Vernon Ruch, Lew Seals, Pete Archer and Aart MacDonald although the last three have missed substantial time with injury.

Lost in the excitement of the Casstevens trade was news the Chicago Chiefs made a second deal. This one brings veteran third baseman Hank Stratton from Cleveland to Whitney Park in exchange for minor league outfielder Johnny Anderson. The 32-year-old Stratton had spent his entire big league career, 981 games worth, with Cleveland and is a .281 career hitter but was batting just .247 in 55 games this season. He is a dependable corner-infield depth piece for the Chiefs second-half run.
In the you just knew it was coming department: Gothams slugger Mahlon Strong is hurt and will miss up to two months. Too bad, as the 38 year old was having quite a year batting .323 with 12 homers and 43 rbi's but half a season without injury is close to a record for Strong.
Archie Irwin of the Chicago Daily News wrote what everyone who follows baseball has to be thinking: "I still can't believe the Pioneers are the first team to 50 wins and hold a 6 game lead in the Fed. Will someone be able to stop the worst-to-first ascent in the second half?"
To which Percy Sutherland of the Chicago Herald-Examiner quickly retorted that the Chicago Chiefs "bet the farm (literally) on an attempt."
Cincinnati might still be in 2nd place but they are just 500 since June 1st. The Stars are playing better, the Cougars grabbed Pestelli and are the “considered“ favorites over the 2nd half. Can the Cannons with their veterans put it together to make another run? Signs point to a need for another solid starting pitcher and maybe another bat somewhere.
The Kings rebound with a 4-2 week taking a pair from Chicago. SP Leo Hayden 2-0 0.50 ERA in 18 IP finally showed his rookie of the year form from last season. He was particularly sharp against the Cougars in the Windy City with a 4-hitter.
Former King Tiny Hopkins has set a new career high in RBI’s at 82 in just over half a season with the Chicago Chiefs. Previous high was last years 74 with 35 coming after the trade in just 2 months. He is loving playing in Chi-town and it’s friendly ballpark. And yet his home road power splits are pretty close
This is a record 11th all-star game selection for Bobby Barrell. George Cleaves and Adam Mullins are named for the 9th time each while Bobby's brother Harry Barrell is making his 8th appearance.
Speaking of brothers, how great is it to see the Fed catchers are George Cleaves and his half-brother Roger Cleaves.
Who in April would have said more Brooklyn Kings (5) than Chicago Cougars (3) would be selected to the all-star game.
No Pete Papenfus or Deuce Barrell on the Continental All-Star roster just does not feel right.
The CA named 4 catchers to the team.
There are 19 first-time selections but is anyone as surprised as I am that this is Mack Sutton's first all-star game
11 of the 16 first round draft picks quickly signed and are set to report to various minor league teams this week. Included in the group is pitcher Led Ledbetter, the 18-year old Adwell Award winner from Fowlerville, Mi., who agreed to the highest signing bonus the Wolves have ever paid at $33,000 to join their organization instead of enroll at CC Los Angeles. Ledbetter immediately debuted as the top ranked pitcher on the OSA prospect pipeline and #3 overall behind Stars minor league shortstop Ralph Hanson (2nd overall-1945) and former Amarillo Methodist All-American Al Farmer, who just signed with the Philadelphia Sailors after that club selected him 9th overall in January.
Dynamos wish top pick John Morrison was higher than #31 right now but happy that second round pitchers Jack Halbur and William Benns are #49 and #67, 4th round catcher Elmer Saunders is just outside the top 100 as is 6th round selection Al Wilson. All will drop a bit though as the remaining players around the league sign.
Cougars second rounder Garland Phelps quickly snapped up his $31,000 bonus and checks in at 26 on the top 100 prospect list. He is joined by third rounder Dudley Sapp, who sits at 61. First rounder Jerry Smith is still mulling over his bonus, and is expected to rank above Phelps. 4th Rounder Roy Gass signed today, so he will not be ranked until a new ranking is published next week. Phelps, just 17, will report to Class B San Jose while Gass and Sapp will join Class C La Crosse.

SHOCKER IN STEELTOWN: EDMONDS WINS MIDDLE BELT, RUINS MELANSON’S HOMECOMING

They say there is no rooting in the press box. You shall not root for players or teams. It compromises one’s ability to evaluate with clarity. I have been careful over the years, not to fall in love with the Keystones in their success since I have been covering them, this year notwithstanding. I have been careful not to fall head-over-heels in love with The Georgia Jolter or The Memphis Mauler. It is one of the tougher parts of my job: to stay objective.

It is with that in mind that it pains me to write this recap of the Frank Melanson-John Edmonds fight on Independence Day at Fitzpatrick Park. You see, Melanson won his title in the first title bout I covered for the Inquisitor. Frank Melanson was the underdog in his title shot on that fateful and, dare I say, idyllic night in Philadelphia, where Melanson boxed his way to the unlikeliest of championships with a unanimous decision over the Tadcaster Thunderbolt, Archie Rees.

Two years hence, Melanson was still the champion as he entered the ring for his fifth title defense, but he would leave the ring a disappointed former champion. Disappointed in his showing in his hometown in its cathedral, Fitzpatrick Park. Disappointed in the way the fight ended, with referee Ernest Byrd stopping the fight in the 14th round when a cut over his right eye made it too precarious to continue. Disappointed in not going in for the kill when he had the chance.

John Edmonds, the challenger from Muncie, Ind., entered the fight at 22-2-0, which looks paltry compared to Melanson’s 32-0-2 mark to begin the fight, but Edmonds won 17 by knockout. If styles make fights, Edmonds, who has a reputation for a hard-hitting, power-punching style could easily spell trouble.

Melanson was ahead, albeit slightly, on each of the three judges’ cards by the same 125-123 count when the fight was stopped. But time after time during the fight, Edmonds featured more power in his punches and had long stretches where he was in control of the bout. Melanson, as is his strategy, fought more defensively and Edmonds’s corner clearly watched previous film on Frank the Tank to know the champ’s tendencies.

Edmonds started with a strong first round, which showed Melanson he was going to have a fight on his hands. A hard right hand, which became his go-to as the bout wore on, set the tone about two minutes in. Edmonds connected on 80% of the Big Boppers I counted during the entire fight (16 of 20). Melanson was shaken but stiffened up to lead the early rounds.

The momentum swung to Edmonds in the sixth round when Edmonds brought his hammer to ring center. A combination and an uppercut sent Melanson reeling and Edmonds marked his dominant round with a late combo and a right to the head.

In the ninth, Edmonds left a lasting mark with an early jab in the opening seconds that cut the Tank above his right eye. From that point forward, Edmonds landed six Big Boppers and Melanson could not connect on a single one. Edmonds jumped into the driver’s seat and tried to exploit the gash while it started to swell.

In the 13th round, Melanson’s cut reopened halfway through the round on a big right from Edmonds. The fight was halted while Melanson was checked out, but the match was allowed to continue, though only temporarily. Just 31 seconds into the 14th round, an uppercut by Edmonds proved to be too much and the fight was stopped for good four seconds later.

You could Melanson’s body betrayed him. He was ahead on points and if he could have continued and held his own for another 5-1/2 minutes, he could have kept the belt. But it was not to be. Melanson’s first loss (32-1-2) is not the death sentence it has been for other fighters recently. Thie outcome screams for a rematch. Edmonds, the new Middleweight Champion, earned his stripes and won in a hostile environment, moving his record to 23-2-0. Edmonds won the respect of the crowd, if not its adulation. The former champion slunked in the corner after the result was announced, bloody and crestfallen.

BOLOGNA’S BIG BOPPER STATS
Round 1: Edmonds 1-0 (1:55 right/side)
Round 2: None
Round 3: Tied 1-1 (E: 0:29 hook/head; M: 2:23 cross)
Round 4: Edmonds 1-0 (0:44 uppercut)
Round 5: Tied 2-2 (E: 1:49 hook, 2:59 hook; M: 1:04 combo, 1:59)
Round 6: Edmonds 4-0 (0:37 combo, 0:51 uppercut/head, 2:32 combo, 2:53 right/head)
Round 7: Edmonds 1-0 (0:15 cross)
Round 8: Melanson 1-0 (1:20 uppercut)
Round 9: Edmonds 3-0 (0:51 right/ribs, 2:09 right/face, 2:35 uppercut)
Round 10: None
Round 11: Edmonds 1-0 (0:37 right/body)
Round 12: Edmonds 1-0 (2:08 right/chin)
Round 13: Edmonds 2-0 (0:31 cross, 1:46 right)
Round 14: None
TOTAL: Edmonds 16, Melanson 4

GILL SUFFERS DISAPPOINTING DEFEAT IN BALTIMORE

Todd Gill, the valiant warrior who famously clashed with Frank Melanson on two unforgettable occasions for the world middleweight title, seems to have reached a crossroads in his illustrious career. Gill's most recent outing resulted in a lackluster ten-round unanimous decision loss to Owen Shepherd, a modestly regarded pugilist hailing from Canton, Ohio, who appeared as a veritable titan compared to Gill in their encounter last Monday.

At 35 years of age, Gill exhibited signs of slowness and weariness right from the early rounds against Shepherd, giving the impression of a pugilist whose best days lie behind him. With this defeat, Gill's professional record now stands at 22-3-6, a far cry from his heyday. It is worth noting that Gill's decline commenced following a crushing TKO loss to the formidable Melanson in May of last year. Those unforgettable battles against Melanson, including their ferocious draw in New York six months prior, showcased Gill's indomitable spirit and highlighted the middleweight division's most thrilling nights of fisticuffs in recent memory. During that golden era, Gill was on the cusp of securing his well-deserved title shot, but contractual disputes resulted in then-champion Archie Rees seeking alternative opponents in Philadelphia, ultimately leading to Melanson's shocking upset victory. The unassuming factory worker from Pittsburgh was thrust into the global spotlight, changing the trajectory of Gill's career until the two met a few months later.

Despite his recent setback, Gill remains resolute in his determination to soldier on. "I am not hanging up the gloves. I shall return to the squared circle," he declared with unwavering resolve. However, one cannot help but ponder whether Gill's tenacity can overcome the physical toll that countless battles have exacted upon his body. The road ahead appears treacherous, and only time will tell if Gill can summon the strength to triumph over future challenges.

UPCOMING MAJOR FIGHTS

Jul 11- Fall River, Mass.: middleweights Nick Harris (20-3-1) vs Joe Starr (18-3).
Jul 23- Cleveland: welterweight contender Ira Mtichell (17-1) vs Ronald Head (20-7-1)
Jul 26- Rome, Italy: European middleweight champ Edouard Desmarais (37-1) vs Angelo Penso (23-11).
Jul 31 - New York: heavyweight Scott 'The Chef' Baker (15-2-2) vs Dick Martin (14-5-1)
Jul 31- Cougars Park, Chicago: former welterweight champ Mark Westlake (21-3-1) vs Willis May (17-2-2)
Aug 2 - Cougars Park, Chicago: Hector Sawyer (55-3-1) defends his world heavyweight title against Irish Pat Harber (31-7-1)
Aug 16- Denny Arena, Boston: Harold Stephens (19-3-2) defends his world welterweight title against Carl Taylor (22-3-2).

THE NIGHT PITTSBURGH WEPT

Melanson's Defeat Shakes the Steel City

Frank "The Tank" Melanson, the once-unlikely champion who emerged from the steel mills of Pittsburgh to conquer the world of boxing, suffered a devastating blow on the evening of July 4. The city's very own prodigal son, who had captured the middleweight crown in a stunning upset two years ago, was making his triumphant return to Fitzpatrick Park for his fifth title defense. The stage was set for a grand celebration, with fireworks illuminating the night sky after another resounding victory. However, fate had a different plan in mind, and John Edmonds crashed the party with a force that even the fiercest storm could not muster.

The fight unfolded with a palpable air of anticipation, as the Pittsburgh faithful filled the stands, eager to witness their beloved champion's dominance. Melanson, who had soared through 33 victories without a single defeat, had become a symbol of resilience and hometown pride. Yet, on this fateful night, the cheers turned to hushed whispers as Edmonds unveiled his tenacious spirit.

The climax came in the 14th round when the contest was abruptly halted. Though Melanson pleaded for the bout to continue, his plight was evident - blood cascading from a cut above his right eye had rendered him defenseless. Referee Ernest Byrd, despite enduring the wrath of the pro-Melanson crowd, made the difficult but necessary decision to protect the fallen hero. The scorecards had favored Melanson, and victory seemed within his grasp, but Edmonds, displaying unwavering determination, fought with the heart of a lion.

The fatal blow occurred early in the ninth round when the challenger from Munice, Indiana, landed two rapid-fire jabs, one of which found its mark, tearing open Melanson's eyebrow. Edmonds, ever the opportunist, seized upon the moment, relentlessly targeting the wound throughout the rest of the bout. Melanson's corner fought valiantly between rounds, attempting to staunch the flow of blood and extend their warrior's reign, but their efforts were in vain. The middleweight champion's crown slipped from his grasp, his time at the pinnacle of the sport coming to an unexpected end.

As the final bell tolled, a sense of somber reflection filled Fitzpatrick Park. The celebratory fireworks still exploded above, but they lacked the jubilant spirit they were intended to embody. Melanson, once an emblem of triumph over adversity, must now come to terms with his first taste of defeat. The road to redemption may be arduous, but if history has taught us anything, it is that the spirit of a champion can never be extinguished.
*** Ice Eagles Finally Down For the Count ***

While the world of boxing mourned the fall of Frank Melanson, another local sports institution faced its own devastating defeat. The Brooklyn Eagles, a team known more for its survival instincts than its on-ice triumphs, met its final demise after years of battling against insurmountable odds.

The Eagles' journey began in the heart of New York City, but it was the relentless claws of financial hardship -and the extortionet ways of the Bigsby clan- that forced the team's relocation to Brooklyn in 1940. Under the guidance of new owner Edward Faberge, the Eagles set their sights on a fresh start. However, their inaugural season was marred by a dismal performance, as they managed a mere eight victories in the Brooklyn Arena. The subsequent years only brought further despair, with consecutive seasons marked by a paltry three wins, pushing the team to the brink of oblivion.

Ironically, as the Eagles achieved their highest point total in Brooklyn history, accumulating 38 points with a 15-25-8 record, the team succumbed to its long-standing struggle to remain financially viable. Faberge, in a desperate bid to salvage the sinking ship, recruited promising talents from the minor leagues, hoping to build a winning team that would captivate the hearts of fans. Despite narrowly escaping the league's basement for the first time, the Eagles could not stave off the financial losses that plagued their balance sheet. Thus, the Brooklyn Eagles, once a symbol of resilience, now fade into the annals of history.
*** Cautionary Tales: Eagles' Demise Raises Concerns for Diamond Pioneers ***

In the wake of the Brooklyn Eagles' collapse, St. Louis finds itself at a crossroads, teetering on the precipice of losing one of their two sports franchises. The St. Louis Pioneers, a storied baseball team that has languished in the shadows of mediocrity for far too long, now faces a stark reality. Despite their current position atop the Federal Association, boasting a first-place standing, the Pioneers find themselves struggling to fill the seats and capture the hearts of their disillusioned fanbase.

For over a decade, St. Louis baseball enthusiasts have exhibited a peculiar apathy towards their hometown team. The Pioneers, who last hoisted a pennant in 1921, have failed to recapture the glory that once electrified this city. The wounds inflicted upon the faithful by ill-fated trades, including the departure of the prodigious Max Morris, the titan of home runs, in the mid-1930s still sting today.

When Los Angeles movie producer Dee Rose assumed ownership of the team in 1940, hopes were raised for a renaissance. However, those aspirations quickly turned to disillusionment when it was revealed that Rose, in a move that reverberated through the sports world, had intentions to relocate the Pioneers to the sun-drenched shores of California. Fate, of course, intervened, delaying the ill-conceived migration as the shadows of war loomed on the horizon. Still, the wounds of betrayal inflicted upon the hearts of St. Louis fans remain fresh, casting a shadow of doubt over the team's future.

As the Pioneers now find themselves perched atop the league, their destiny rests not only on the shoulders of their players but on the fervor of their supporters. Will the citizens of St. Louis rise to the occasion, proving their undying loyalty, or will they mirror the apathy that condemned the Brooklyn Eagles to their final flight? Only time will reveal the answer.

CONTINENTAL CONFERENCE LOOKS FOR BIG YEAR

The Continental Football Conference, a postwar baby that grew up in a year, takes off on its second training campaign in another two weeks with a feeling of high optimism instead of a chip on its shoulder. They'd fight the established American Football Assocation at the drop of a headgear last season as they struggled for a toehold in the rich industry of football for pay. With that toehold achieved, the CFC now expects to carry on along more conservative lines until an eventual agreement for a football "World Championship Series" is established with the American grid Asscociation.

No one in authority will say so, but the general feeling both at CFC headquarters and around the league is that an armistice will be reached within two years.

Reasons for optimism over the 1947 season are numerous -and main one is at the box office.

"Reports we've been getting in here indicate every team in the conference has or will easily surpass its ticket sale of last year," said CFC President Bob Montgomery recently.

So much for the all-important dough. The breand of football, or at least the competitive angle, also is looking up. Both division of the Continental Conference expect to be built up far closer to the level of the Kansas City Cowboys -who dominated the loop in its inaugural season. The Chicago Comets, who were among the league's worst a year ago, are the first to get training camp underway July 15, with all other clubs heading for camp between then and the end of the month.

CFC President Bob Montgomery will be making his rounds of the camps after that and word is the speech he has prepared for each of the eight teams will focus heavily on the evils of gambling and consorting with gamblers would make your hair curl.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 7/06/1947

Fears of a major soft coal strike are fading, after John L. Lewis and a large segment of the soft coal industry were reported to be on the bring of a new wage agreement.
President Truman signed -as "the lesser of two evils"- a bill permitting 15 percent rent increases under extended Federal controls and ending many restrictions on housing construction. Truman said he had no choice but to sign "the plainly inadequate" measure because "it is this bill or no rent control at all."
Russian Foreign Minister Molotov refused flatly to join France and Britain in drafting an all-Europe recovery plan. Molotov stated that "the Anglo-French proposal would enable foreign powers to impose their will on other statest and constitute an intereference with their sovereignty."
In a speech clearly aimed at the Soviets, Truman described as "folly" the refusal of any European nation to take part in a co-operative plan for the continent's economic recovery. Without mentioning Russia by name he blasted the "the organized mistrust" aimed at leading the world's peoples "away from peace and unity" and demanded an end of "propaganda attacks on other nations."
Reports from Paris say a Fascist extremist plot to overthrow the Fourth Republic and set up a military-type dictatorship was discovered almost on the eve of the plan's execution, the French government announced.

06-21-2023, 05:13 PM	#729
Tiger Fan Hall Of Famer Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Ontario Canada Posts: 9,814	July 7, 1947 All-Star Game Rosters revealed JULY 7, 1947 ALL-STAR GAME ROSTERS UNVEILED Bobby Barrell Named For Record 11th Time The rosters have been finalized for the 15th annual All-Star Game, set to take place at Sailors Memorial Stadium in Philadelphia tomorrow. The lineups, which include 19 first-time all-stars, are highlighted once again by Bobby Barrell as the Keystones slugger becomes the first player to be selected 11 times for the midseason classic. Barrell is having another dominant season at age 36, batting .336 with 38 homers and 69 rbi's at the break and seems to be on course to threaten Max Morris' single season homerun mark of 60. Barrell's brother Harry is back in the all-star game as well, making his 8th appearance after a six year absence from the annual spectacle. Pittsburgh catcher George Cleaves and Adam Mullins, catcher for the Cincinnati Cannons, are each selected for the ninth time. Here are the rosters for tomorrow's game. Code: MOST ALL-STAR SELECTIONS 11* Bobby Barrell Keystones 10 Tom Bird Retired 9 Frank Vance Retired 9* Adam Mullins Cincinnati 9* George Cleaves Pittsburgh 8 John Lawson Retired 8* Fred McCormick Toronto 8* Harry Barrell Boston 7 Hank Barnett Brooklyn 7* Mel Carrol Washington 7 Pete Day Boston 7 Ron Rattigan Chiefs 6 Sal Pestilli Cougars 6 Fred Galloway Cincinnati 6 Leo Mitchell Cougars 6 Dean Astle Boston 6 Pablo Reyes Chiefs 6 Moxie Pidgeon Retired 6* Bill Barrett Stars 6* Red Johnson Gothams 6* Al Miller Chiefs 6* Freddie Jones Stars 6* Skipper Schneider Cougars selected to 1947 ASG ALL-STAR REPRESENTATIVS BY TEAM* BROOKLYN- 5 Johnny Slaney (1), Solly Skidmore (1), Juan Pomales (1), Ralph Johnson (1), John Moss (1) NY STARS- 5 Chuck Cole (4), Eli Panneton (2), Freddie Jones (6), Mack Sutton (1), Bill Barrett (6) WASHINGTON- 5 Ike Keller (4), Buckeye Smith (1), Mel Carrol (7), Jesse Alvardo (2), Rats McGonigle (2) CHIEFS- 4 Gus Goulding (2), Al Miller (6), Tim Hopkins (1), Artie D'Alessandro (1) COUGARS- 4 Donnie Jones (2), Walt Pack (3), Skipper Schneider (6), Hal Sharp (2) DETROIT- 4 Carl Potter(1), Dick Estes (1), Edwin Hackberrry (1), Sid Williams (2) SAILORS- 4 John Thomas Johnson (1), Win Lewis (2), David Molina (2), Woody Stone (5) BOSTON- 3 Ray Dalpman (2), Billy Dalton (3), Harry Barrell (8) CINCINNATI- 3 Adam Mullins (9), Denny Andrews (3), Charlie Rivera (1) NY GOTHAMS- 3 Ed Bowman (5), Sam Hodge (1), Red Johnson (6) ST LOUIS- 3 Danny Hern (3),Tony Dixon (1), Al Tucker (5) TORONTO- 3 George Garrison (3), Fred McCormick (8), Chink Stickels (3) KEYSTONES- 2 Roger Cleaves (1), Bobby Barrell (11) CLEVELAND- 1 Davey Morris (1) MONTREAL- 1 Jack Spahr (1) PITTSBURGH- 1 George Cleaves (9) Code: PAST ALL STAR GAME RESULTS YEAR LOCATION RESULT WINNING PITCHER MVP 1933 Whitney Park Federal 8 Continental 5 Ben Curtin STL Pete Asher Pit 1934 Riverside Stadium Federal 11 Continental 7 Chick Stout Pit Tom Taylor Cougars 1935 Broad Street Park Federal 5 Continental 2 Art Myers Keystones Freddie Jones StL 1936 Pioneer Field Continental 6 Federal 4 Tom Barrell BKN Dick Walker Sailors 1937 Dominion Field Federal 4 Continental 2 (19) Don Attaway Keystones Don Attaway Keystones 1938 Bigsby Oval Continental 5 Federal 4 (13) Bob Cummings BKN Fred McCormick TOR 1939 Forester Stadium Continental 6 Federal 3 Art White BKN Fred McCormick TOR 1940 Thompson Field Federal 7 Continental 4 Red Hampton Chiefs Billy Woytek Keystones 1941 Kings County Continental 8 Federal 4 Pete Papenfus Cougars Fred Galloway Cincinnati 1942 Fitzpatrick Park Federal 7 Continental 4 Ed Wood BOS Hank Barnett Chiefs 1943 Parc Cartier Continetal 7 Federal 3 Dick Lyons, Cougars Gail Gifford, StL 1944 Columbia Stadium Federal 1 Continental 0 Ed Bowman, Gothams Don Miller, Wash 1945 Cougars Park Federal 8 Continental 4 (10) Bill Anderson, Pit Chick Donnelly, Bos 1946 Minutemen Stadium Continental 2 Federal 1 Richie Hughes, Cle Sig Stofer, Wash 1947 Sailors Memorial FABL BEST OF THE WEEK GOTHAMS DEAL CASSTEVENS All-Star Catcher Sent to Chiefs Another day, another deal for the once more retooling New York Gothams. After sending Sal Pestilli to the Chicago Cougars a week ago, the Gothams sent another all-star to the Windy City as catcher Pete Casstevens was dispatched to the Chicago Chiefs. While TWIFB questioned the return the New Yorkers received for Pestilli, there are no such worries with the haul they received for the 28-year-old Casstevens. The move, clearly a decision from Chiefs brass to go all in an effort to catch the surprising St Louis Pioneers for top spot in the Federal Association, sees Chicago send its first and second round picks along with what OSA ranks as the Chiefs top four prospects in outfielder Dick Steel, shortstop Lou Hooker and pitchers Dick Mills and Chuck Briggs. The 23-year-old Hooker made his FABL debut this season and is batting .265 in 21 big league games. The other three prospects are all 19 or 20 and presently playing in Class B. None are a can't miss prospect with Steel the only one of the four to crack the OSA top 50 so there is clearly risk on New York's part put the Chiefs draft picks stand a much better chance of being lottery selections than the first rounder the Gothams added from the Cougars for Pestilli. In all, the Gothams now own three first rounders and two second round picks in the January draft. While we have few concerns with the return the Gothams received from Chicago, we do have a big worry about the deal. That would be how do the Gothams survive the season without anything resembling a big league catcher in their organization? They have career minor leaguer Cliff Leiby -with 12 games of big league experience- as the backup to Casstevens at the moment with just Josh Porter and Gussie Harris at AAA, neither of whom is expected to contribute much. Perhaps the Gothams give the job to untested Ray Miller - a 23-year-old 1942 fourth round selection with some promise who is hitting .236 in in 85 games of AA expeirence over the past season and a half. Or do they make a deal for an established catcher? Casstevens is an outstanding defensive catcher who can provide some offensive pop as well and should fit in very nicely both in the Chiefs lineup and at Whitney Park with it's cozy leftfield line. The move means the Chiefs may end up eventually parting ways with Dino Robinson, a 23-year-old who has not looked out of place in the Chiefs lineup after being acquired from the Keystones two years ago. * Fed Picture is Cloudy * These moves certainly jumble things up in the Federal Association. If there was any doubt the Gothams were looking to the future after the Pestilli move, this deal certainly seems to confirm it as they no longer have a big league quality catcher. The Chiefs have made some big moves over the last twelve months, certainly enhancing their pennant hopes with additions like first baseman Tim Hopkins and now Casstevens. They still might be a piece or two short and their minor league prospect cupboard -already fairly bare- is now pretty much empty although Robinson does remain a pretty solid trade chip should they find the right piece to target. It will be very interesting to see how St Louis reacts. The Pioneers are in the lead and have been nearly all season but as New York Daily Mirror columnist John Brinker observed "you can't help but feel they are a Danny Hearn injury away from fading." Will St Louis pull the trigger on a big deal over the next four weeks to help with those dreams of ending a pennantless stretch that dates all the way back to 1921? What of Detroit? The Dynamos brass has said it will not move any of its strong core of young talent but the Detroit nine is clearly just a bat or two away from mounting a serious challenge this summer. If Detroit stays close does management give in and make a move to try and accelerate the rebuild in the Motor City? That is something that has been tried before in recent years and came up short -ultimately setting the Dynamos recovery back. Now that New York is seemingly out of the mix do the Washington Eagles or Philadelphia Keystones get aggressive prior to the deadline, knowing there is one less bigtime player in the picture for the rest of the season and quite possibly the next couple as well. Or does New York do a sudden about-face and try and package those three first rounders into an ace arm, and likely a catcher, to try and charge right back into the mix? It should be an interesting July in the Federal Association, but then isn't it always. MINERS FIRE SKIPPER LIBBY Late news out of Pittsburgh confirms that the Miners have relieved manager Bill Libby of his duties. Libby was in his second year running the Pittsburgh bench but the Miners are sitting in last place in the Federal Association with a 33-51 record. The club also announced that third base coach Charley McCain will take over on an interim basis but will be given an opportunity to earn the job full-time. The 51-year-old McCain joined the Miners at the start of the 1946 season along with Libby. He never played in the big leagues but did spend some time with Sacramento in the Great Western League and played college ball for Garden State before moving on to coach in the collegiate ranks. This marks the first time in the modern era the Miners have made a managerial change during the season. The 60-year-old Libby, who had a brief stint with the Montreal Saints in his playing days, made his mark as a pitching coach in holding that role for World Championship Series winners in Detroit and Brooklyn. After helping the Kings to three straight pennants, Libby received his first chance to manage in the big leagues when he was handed the reigns for the Philadelphia Keystones. He spent five seasons with the Keystones before leaving following the 1943 campaign when the club elected not to renew his contract. Libby signed with Pittsburgh prior to the 1946 season and the team finished 6 games under .500 for him last year. Libby is 498-510 all time as a manager. COASTAL STATE SOPHOMORE MILLER WINS CHRISTIAN TROPHY Shortstop Tom Miller of the Coastal State Eagles has been named the winner of the 1947 Frank Christian Trophy, presented annually to the top player in collegiate baseball. The 21-year-old, who will be eligible for the FABL draft in January, led the college ranks in homeruns with 15 while batting .339 and playing solid defense for the South Carolina school. The Philadelphia native is a likely first round draft pick as OSA scouts feel he will be an everytday shortstop who can make an impact on a top-tier team. Miller, who helped lead the Eagles to the second round of the AIAA tournament for the second year in a row, claimed six of the seven first place votes for the award. The other ballot had Miller behind Carolina Poly freshman pitcher Johnny Young, who finished second in the voting, and shortstop Irv Clifford, a junior from Charleston Tech who was drafted second overall in January by the Pittsburgh Miners. Miller becomes the first shortstop to ever win the award and joins two-time winner Bill Moore, Freddie Jones and Sam Orr as the only infielders to win a Christian Trophy. Interesting to see the New York Gothams tearing things down again. Word is the Dynamos tried to get in on the buying frenzy but were rebuffed in their attempts to bring Sal Pestilli back to Thompson Field. Detroit refused to part with any prospects but was reportedly willing to send veteran pitcher Dixie Lee to New York in order to liberate Sal. In a lot of ways that move might have made more sense for the Gothams as Lee could perhaps have been the piece they needed to turn things around. Instead Sal went to the Continental Chicago clan and the Gothams shockingly moved another former Dynamos draft pick in Pete Casstevens to the Windy City Feds. Now, New York is dangling the picks they received in those deals for a top noth pitcher - say a Dixie Lee type- but word is they want someone younger than Lee. No idea who is going to crouch behind the plate at Gothams Stadium as they don't have a catcher any more. Really feels like the Gothams are using all those confusing street signs in Manhattan as their inspiration. Feels like no one in that organization has any idea which direction they are going. * Dynamos Hanging in Race * It is the all-star break and congrats to the three young Dynamos who will be making their first -of what we hope is many- trips to the all-star game. Carl Potter, Edwin Hackberry and Dick Estes are all very deserving and can rely on veteran Sid Williams to show them around. Williams is hardly an all-star regular -certainly no where near Bobby Barrell's record 11th appearance- but he is back for his second trip to the summer classic. Williams popped out as a pinch-hitter to end the 1941 game won by the Continentals 8-4 in Brooklyn. Fans of the electric bolt have to be pretty happy looking at the standings today and see the Dynamos in second place. The rebuild is going quicker than expected, but there are some doubts the club can keep it up. Washington is very much in the mix and the Chiefs have added some pieces as well. You also have to think that Philadelphia is not willing to waste this amazing season Bobby Barrell is having on a second-division club. But unless someone can step up and join Lloyd Stevens as a productive contributor on the Keystones mound that might be just where they end up. There was a crazy rumour circulating the Dynamos had sent a note to Toronto asking about Fred McCormick. If true, he would be a big addition and maybe the bat the Dynamos needed to put them over the top. Alas, Toronto sources insist McCormick is going to retire with the Wolves and probably just as well, as the price would be more than the Dynamos should likely be willing to pay, as the best course right now is stick with the plan to let all of their young talent develop together. * Ice Eagles Folding Good for NAHC, But Bad for Motors * While nothing official has been released by the league, it is clear that after years and years of rumours the Brooklyn Eagles have finally flown for the last time. Even in the late 1930's there was talk of the Eagles -run by current Detroit head scout Bill Yeadon back in those days- was being squeezed out by the Bigsby's. Maroons owner Rollie Barrell and several others rode to the rescue back then and the club found new life in Daniel Prescott's basketball stadium in Brooklyn. The team was awful on the ice, and few fans bothered to show up, leading to the rumours of its demise - rumours that now finally were realized. A 6-team NAHC will be a much more stable loop. It is easier to schedule games, increases the talent pool and ensures that two-thirds of the league owners will get at least some playoff revenue. The problem is the timing could not be worse for the Detroit Motors as far as divying up the talent in Brooklyn. The Eagles really have two star quality players in 24-year-old goal scoring machine Quinton Pollack and 31-year-old legend Tom Brockers between the pipes. Those two seem all but assured of going to Toronto and Montreal, the teams that missed the playoffs along with the Eagles last season. New York finished fourth and picks third with promising 20-year-old defenseman Robert Sharpley the likely prize, unless Montreal grabs him instead of Brockers. So with the three stars gone, each making the three teams that finished below the Motors a year ago a fair bit better, a second straight trip to the playoffs might just be a tough ask for Motor City icemen. Gothams Notes: Fan interest plummets along with the team's pennant chances. The trading of Sal Pestilli and Pete Casstevens along with the injury to Mahlon Strong have Gothams fans despondent to say the least. Jim Lonardo now sits at #5 all time in games started with 610 having broken a tie this week with Rabbit Day. First round pick Cecil LaBonte debuts at #5 on the top prospect list and has been assigned directly to AAA Toledo. Newly acquired SS Lou Hooker will share starting duties in New York with Tom Jeffries. RACE TIGHTENS IN COAST LOOP The Oakland Grays completed a 3-game sweep of the first place Dallas Centurions over the weekend, tightening up what is turning out to be quite a race for the top two spots in the Great Western League and with them berths in the Bigsby Cup. The Centurions have dropped 8 of their last 11 contests and as the season hits the midway point there are four teams separated by just two games at the top of the league. The Centurions, led by a high scoring office accumulated in no small part due to big money contracts that lured former FABL regulars Brooks Meeks, Ken Mayhugh and Heinie Billings west, still lead the way, a game and a half up on both the Grays and the Los Angeles Knights. The Knights, who lost to San Francisco in the inaugural Bigsby Cup a year ago, rely heavily on their pitching staff including ex-FABL regulars Karl Wallace and Bob Cummings. Oakland is getting a career year out of Frankie Cohen, who spent a few seasons with the Chicago Chiefs. Cohen lead the GWL in hitting and has been hovering around the .400 mark all season. Two other big reasons for the Grays success has been the work of Jim Hawkins and Cy Sullivan on the mound as the duo has combined for 18 wins in the first half. Pete Layton's Portland Green Sox are right in the mix as well and boast of some familiar FABL names in Johnny Guzzo, Vernon Ruch, Lew Seals, Pete Archer and Aart MacDonald although the last three have missed substantial time with injury. Lost in the excitement of the Casstevens trade was news the Chicago Chiefs made a second deal. This one brings veteran third baseman Hank Stratton from Cleveland to Whitney Park in exchange for minor league outfielder Johnny Anderson. The 32-year-old Stratton had spent his entire big league career, 981 games worth, with Cleveland and is a .281 career hitter but was batting just .247 in 55 games this season. He is a dependable corner-infield depth piece for the Chiefs second-half run. In the you just knew it was coming department: Gothams slugger Mahlon Strong is hurt and will miss up to two months. Too bad, as the 38 year old was having quite a year batting .323 with 12 homers and 43 rbi's but half a season without injury is close to a record for Strong. Archie Irwin of the Chicago Daily News wrote what everyone who follows baseball has to be thinking: "I still can't believe the Pioneers are the first team to 50 wins and hold a 6 game lead in the Fed. Will someone be able to stop the worst-to-first ascent in the second half?" To which Percy Sutherland of the Chicago Herald-Examiner quickly retorted that the Chicago Chiefs "bet the farm (literally) on an attempt." Cincinnati might still be in 2nd place but they are just 500 since June 1st. The Stars are playing better, the Cougars grabbed Pestelli and are the “considered“ favorites over the 2nd half. Can the Cannons with their veterans put it together to make another run? Signs point to a need for another solid starting pitcher and maybe another bat somewhere. The Kings rebound with a 4-2 week taking a pair from Chicago. SP Leo Hayden 2-0 0.50 ERA in 18 IP finally showed his rookie of the year form from last season. He was particularly sharp against the Cougars in the Windy City with a 4-hitter. Former King Tiny Hopkins has set a new career high in RBI’s at 82 in just over half a season with the Chicago Chiefs. Previous high was last years 74 with 35 coming after the trade in just 2 months. He is loving playing in Chi-town and it’s friendly ballpark. And yet his home road power splits are pretty close This is a record 11th all-star game selection for Bobby Barrell. George Cleaves and Adam Mullins are named for the 9th time each while Bobby's brother Harry Barrell is making his 8th appearance. Speaking of brothers, how great is it to see the Fed catchers are George Cleaves and his half-brother Roger Cleaves. Who in April would have said more Brooklyn Kings (5) than Chicago Cougars (3) would be selected to the all-star game. No Pete Papenfus or Deuce Barrell on the Continental All-Star roster just does not feel right. The CA named 4 catchers to the team. There are 19 first-time selections but is anyone as surprised as I am that this is Mack Sutton's first all-star game 11 of the 16 first round draft picks quickly signed and are set to report to various minor league teams this week. Included in the group is pitcher Led Ledbetter, the 18-year old Adwell Award winner from Fowlerville, Mi., who agreed to the highest signing bonus the Wolves have ever paid at $33,000 to join their organization instead of enroll at CC Los Angeles. Ledbetter immediately debuted as the top ranked pitcher on the OSA prospect pipeline and #3 overall behind Stars minor league shortstop Ralph Hanson (2nd overall-1945) and former Amarillo Methodist All-American Al Farmer, who just signed with the Philadelphia Sailors after that club selected him 9th overall in January. Dynamos wish top pick John Morrison was higher than #31 right now but happy that second round pitchers Jack Halbur and William Benns are #49 and #67, 4th round catcher Elmer Saunders is just outside the top 100 as is 6th round selection Al Wilson. All will drop a bit though as the remaining players around the league sign. Cougars second rounder Garland Phelps quickly snapped up his $31,000 bonus and checks in at 26 on the top 100 prospect list. He is joined by third rounder Dudley Sapp, who sits at 61. First rounder Jerry Smith is still mulling over his bonus, and is expected to rank above Phelps. 4th Rounder Roy Gass signed today, so he will not be ranked until a new ranking is published next week. Phelps, just 17, will report to Class B San Jose while Gass and Sapp will join Class C La Crosse. SHOCKER IN STEELTOWN: EDMONDS WINS MIDDLE BELT, RUINS MELANSON’S HOMECOMING They say there is no rooting in the press box. You shall not root for players or teams. It compromises one’s ability to evaluate with clarity. I have been careful over the years, not to fall in love with the Keystones in their success since I have been covering them, this year notwithstanding. I have been careful not to fall head-over-heels in love with The Georgia Jolter or The Memphis Mauler. It is one of the tougher parts of my job: to stay objective. It is with that in mind that it pains me to write this recap of the Frank Melanson-John Edmonds fight on Independence Day at Fitzpatrick Park. You see, Melanson won his title in the first title bout I covered for the Inquisitor. Frank Melanson was the underdog in his title shot on that fateful and, dare I say, idyllic night in Philadelphia, where Melanson boxed his way to the unlikeliest of championships with a unanimous decision over the Tadcaster Thunderbolt, Archie Rees. Two years hence, Melanson was still the champion as he entered the ring for his fifth title defense, but he would leave the ring a disappointed former champion. Disappointed in his showing in his hometown in its cathedral, Fitzpatrick Park. Disappointed in the way the fight ended, with referee Ernest Byrd stopping the fight in the 14th round when a cut over his right eye made it too precarious to continue. Disappointed in not going in for the kill when he had the chance. John Edmonds, the challenger from Muncie, Ind., entered the fight at 22-2-0, which looks paltry compared to Melanson’s 32-0-2 mark to begin the fight, but Edmonds won 17 by knockout. If styles make fights, Edmonds, who has a reputation for a hard-hitting, power-punching style could easily spell trouble. Melanson was ahead, albeit slightly, on each of the three judges’ cards by the same 125-123 count when the fight was stopped. But time after time during the fight, Edmonds featured more power in his punches and had long stretches where he was in control of the bout. Melanson, as is his strategy, fought more defensively and Edmonds’s corner clearly watched previous film on Frank the Tank to know the champ’s tendencies. Edmonds started with a strong first round, which showed Melanson he was going to have a fight on his hands. A hard right hand, which became his go-to as the bout wore on, set the tone about two minutes in. Edmonds connected on 80% of the Big Boppers I counted during the entire fight (16 of 20). Melanson was shaken but stiffened up to lead the early rounds. The momentum swung to Edmonds in the sixth round when Edmonds brought his hammer to ring center. A combination and an uppercut sent Melanson reeling and Edmonds marked his dominant round with a late combo and a right to the head. In the ninth, Edmonds left a lasting mark with an early jab in the opening seconds that cut the Tank above his right eye. From that point forward, Edmonds landed six Big Boppers and Melanson could not connect on a single one. Edmonds jumped into the driver’s seat and tried to exploit the gash while it started to swell. In the 13th round, Melanson’s cut reopened halfway through the round on a big right from Edmonds. The fight was halted while Melanson was checked out, but the match was allowed to continue, though only temporarily. Just 31 seconds into the 14th round, an uppercut by Edmonds proved to be too much and the fight was stopped for good four seconds later. You could Melanson’s body betrayed him. He was ahead on points and if he could have continued and held his own for another 5-1/2 minutes, he could have kept the belt. But it was not to be. Melanson’s first loss (32-1-2) is not the death sentence it has been for other fighters recently. Thie outcome screams for a rematch. Edmonds, the new Middleweight Champion, earned his stripes and won in a hostile environment, moving his record to 23-2-0. Edmonds won the respect of the crowd, if not its adulation. The former champion slunked in the corner after the result was announced, bloody and crestfallen. BOLOGNA’S BIG BOPPER STATS Round 1: Edmonds 1-0 (1:55 right/side) Round 2: None Round 3: Tied 1-1 (E: 0:29 hook/head; M: 2:23 cross) Round 4: Edmonds 1-0 (0:44 uppercut) Round 5: Tied 2-2 (E: 1:49 hook, 2:59 hook; M: 1:04 combo, 1:59) Round 6: Edmonds 4-0 (0:37 combo, 0:51 uppercut/head, 2:32 combo, 2:53 right/head) Round 7: Edmonds 1-0 (0:15 cross) Round 8: Melanson 1-0 (1:20 uppercut) Round 9: Edmonds 3-0 (0:51 right/ribs, 2:09 right/face, 2:35 uppercut) Round 10: None Round 11: Edmonds 1-0 (0:37 right/body) Round 12: Edmonds 1-0 (2:08 right/chin) Round 13: Edmonds 2-0 (0:31 cross, 1:46 right) Round 14: None TOTAL: Edmonds 16, Melanson 4 GILL SUFFERS DISAPPOINTING DEFEAT IN BALTIMORE Todd Gill, the valiant warrior who famously clashed with Frank Melanson on two unforgettable occasions for the world middleweight title, seems to have reached a crossroads in his illustrious career. Gill's most recent outing resulted in a lackluster ten-round unanimous decision loss to Owen Shepherd, a modestly regarded pugilist hailing from Canton, Ohio, who appeared as a veritable titan compared to Gill in their encounter last Monday. At 35 years of age, Gill exhibited signs of slowness and weariness right from the early rounds against Shepherd, giving the impression of a pugilist whose best days lie behind him. With this defeat, Gill's professional record now stands at 22-3-6, a far cry from his heyday. It is worth noting that Gill's decline commenced following a crushing TKO loss to the formidable Melanson in May of last year. Those unforgettable battles against Melanson, including their ferocious draw in New York six months prior, showcased Gill's indomitable spirit and highlighted the middleweight division's most thrilling nights of fisticuffs in recent memory. During that golden era, Gill was on the cusp of securing his well-deserved title shot, but contractual disputes resulted in then-champion Archie Rees seeking alternative opponents in Philadelphia, ultimately leading to Melanson's shocking upset victory. The unassuming factory worker from Pittsburgh was thrust into the global spotlight, changing the trajectory of Gill's career until the two met a few months later. Despite his recent setback, Gill remains resolute in his determination to soldier on. "I am not hanging up the gloves. I shall return to the squared circle," he declared with unwavering resolve. However, one cannot help but ponder whether Gill's tenacity can overcome the physical toll that countless battles have exacted upon his body. The road ahead appears treacherous, and only time will tell if Gill can summon the strength to triumph over future challenges. UPCOMING MAJOR FIGHTS Jul 11- Fall River, Mass.: middleweights Nick Harris (20-3-1) vs Joe Starr (18-3). Jul 23- Cleveland: welterweight contender Ira Mtichell (17-1) vs Ronald Head (20-7-1) Jul 26- Rome, Italy: European middleweight champ Edouard Desmarais (37-1) vs Angelo Penso (23-11). Jul 31 - New York: heavyweight Scott 'The Chef' Baker (15-2-2) vs Dick Martin (14-5-1) Jul 31- Cougars Park, Chicago: former welterweight champ Mark Westlake (21-3-1) vs Willis May (17-2-2) Aug 2 - Cougars Park, Chicago: Hector Sawyer (55-3-1) defends his world heavyweight title against Irish Pat Harber (31-7-1) Aug 16- Denny Arena, Boston: Harold Stephens (19-3-2) defends his world welterweight title against Carl Taylor (22-3-2). THE NIGHT PITTSBURGH WEPT Melanson's Defeat Shakes the Steel City Frank "The Tank" Melanson, the once-unlikely champion who emerged from the steel mills of Pittsburgh to conquer the world of boxing, suffered a devastating blow on the evening of July 4. The city's very own prodigal son, who had captured the middleweight crown in a stunning upset two years ago, was making his triumphant return to Fitzpatrick Park for his fifth title defense. The stage was set for a grand celebration, with fireworks illuminating the night sky after another resounding victory. However, fate had a different plan in mind, and John Edmonds crashed the party with a force that even the fiercest storm could not muster. The fight unfolded with a palpable air of anticipation, as the Pittsburgh faithful filled the stands, eager to witness their beloved champion's dominance. Melanson, who had soared through 33 victories without a single defeat, had become a symbol of resilience and hometown pride. Yet, on this fateful night, the cheers turned to hushed whispers as Edmonds unveiled his tenacious spirit. The climax came in the 14th round when the contest was abruptly halted. Though Melanson pleaded for the bout to continue, his plight was evident - blood cascading from a cut above his right eye had rendered him defenseless. Referee Ernest Byrd, despite enduring the wrath of the pro-Melanson crowd, made the difficult but necessary decision to protect the fallen hero. The scorecards had favored Melanson, and victory seemed within his grasp, but Edmonds, displaying unwavering determination, fought with the heart of a lion. The fatal blow occurred early in the ninth round when the challenger from Munice, Indiana, landed two rapid-fire jabs, one of which found its mark, tearing open Melanson's eyebrow. Edmonds, ever the opportunist, seized upon the moment, relentlessly targeting the wound throughout the rest of the bout. Melanson's corner fought valiantly between rounds, attempting to staunch the flow of blood and extend their warrior's reign, but their efforts were in vain. The middleweight champion's crown slipped from his grasp, his time at the pinnacle of the sport coming to an unexpected end. As the final bell tolled, a sense of somber reflection filled Fitzpatrick Park. The celebratory fireworks still exploded above, but they lacked the jubilant spirit they were intended to embody. Melanson, once an emblem of triumph over adversity, must now come to terms with his first taste of defeat. The road to redemption may be arduous, but if history has taught us anything, it is that the spirit of a champion can never be extinguished. * Ice Eagles Finally Down For the Count * While the world of boxing mourned the fall of Frank Melanson, another local sports institution faced its own devastating defeat. The Brooklyn Eagles, a team known more for its survival instincts than its on-ice triumphs, met its final demise after years of battling against insurmountable odds. The Eagles' journey began in the heart of New York City, but it was the relentless claws of financial hardship -and the extortionet ways of the Bigsby clan- that forced the team's relocation to Brooklyn in 1940. Under the guidance of new owner Edward Faberge, the Eagles set their sights on a fresh start. However, their inaugural season was marred by a dismal performance, as they managed a mere eight victories in the Brooklyn Arena. The subsequent years only brought further despair, with consecutive seasons marked by a paltry three wins, pushing the team to the brink of oblivion. Ironically, as the Eagles achieved their highest point total in Brooklyn history, accumulating 38 points with a 15-25-8 record, the team succumbed to its long-standing struggle to remain financially viable. Faberge, in a desperate bid to salvage the sinking ship, recruited promising talents from the minor leagues, hoping to build a winning team that would captivate the hearts of fans. Despite narrowly escaping the league's basement for the first time, the Eagles could not stave off the financial losses that plagued their balance sheet. Thus, the Brooklyn Eagles, once a symbol of resilience, now fade into the annals of history. * Cautionary Tales: Eagles' Demise Raises Concerns for Diamond Pioneers * In the wake of the Brooklyn Eagles' collapse, St. Louis finds itself at a crossroads, teetering on the precipice of losing one of their two sports franchises. The St. Louis Pioneers, a storied baseball team that has languished in the shadows of mediocrity for far too long, now faces a stark reality. Despite their current position atop the Federal Association, boasting a first-place standing, the Pioneers find themselves struggling to fill the seats and capture the hearts of their disillusioned fanbase. For over a decade, St. Louis baseball enthusiasts have exhibited a peculiar apathy towards their hometown team. The Pioneers, who last hoisted a pennant in 1921, have failed to recapture the glory that once electrified this city. The wounds inflicted upon the faithful by ill-fated trades, including the departure of the prodigious Max Morris, the titan of home runs, in the mid-1930s still sting today. When Los Angeles movie producer Dee Rose assumed ownership of the team in 1940, hopes were raised for a renaissance. However, those aspirations quickly turned to disillusionment when it was revealed that Rose, in a move that reverberated through the sports world, had intentions to relocate the Pioneers to the sun-drenched shores of California. Fate, of course, intervened, delaying the ill-conceived migration as the shadows of war loomed on the horizon. Still, the wounds of betrayal inflicted upon the hearts of St. Louis fans remain fresh, casting a shadow of doubt over the team's future. As the Pioneers now find themselves perched atop the league, their destiny rests not only on the shoulders of their players but on the fervor of their supporters. Will the citizens of St. Louis rise to the occasion, proving their undying loyalty, or will they mirror the apathy that condemned the Brooklyn Eagles to their final flight? Only time will reveal the answer. CONTINENTAL CONFERENCE LOOKS FOR BIG YEAR The Continental Football Conference, a postwar baby that grew up in a year, takes off on its second training campaign in another two weeks with a feeling of high optimism instead of a chip on its shoulder. They'd fight the established American Football Assocation at the drop of a headgear last season as they struggled for a toehold in the rich industry of football for pay. With that toehold achieved, the CFC now expects to carry on along more conservative lines until an eventual agreement for a football "World Championship Series" is established with the American grid Asscociation. No one in authority will say so, but the general feeling both at CFC headquarters and around the league is that an armistice will be reached within two years. Reasons for optimism over the 1947 season are numerous -and main one is at the box office. "Reports we've been getting in here indicate every team in the conference has or will easily surpass its ticket sale of last year," said CFC President Bob Montgomery recently. So much for the all-important dough. The breand of football, or at least the competitive angle, also is looking up. Both division of the Continental Conference expect to be built up far closer to the level of the Kansas City Cowboys -who dominated the loop in its inaugural season. The Chicago Comets, who were among the league's worst a year ago, are the first to get training camp underway July 15, with all other clubs heading for camp between then and the end of the month. CFC President Bob Montgomery will be making his rounds of the camps after that and word is the speech he has prepared for each of the eight teams will focus heavily on the evils of gambling and consorting with gamblers would make your hair curl. The Week That Was Current events from the week ending 7/06/1947 Fears of a major soft coal strike are fading, after John L. Lewis and a large segment of the soft coal industry were reported to be on the bring of a new wage agreement. President Truman signed -as "the lesser of two evils"- a bill permitting 15 percent rent increases under extended Federal controls and ending many restrictions on housing construction. Truman said he had no choice but to sign "the plainly inadequate" measure because "it is this bill or no rent control at all." Russian Foreign Minister Molotov refused flatly to join France and Britain in drafting an all-Europe recovery plan. Molotov stated that "the Anglo-French proposal would enable foreign powers to impose their will on other statest and constitute an intereference with their sovereignty." In a speech clearly aimed at the Soviets, Truman described as "folly" the refusal of any European nation to take part in a co-operative plan for the continent's economic recovery. Without mentioning Russia by name he blasted the "the organized mistrust" aimed at leading the world's peoples "away from peace and unity" and demanded an end of "propaganda attacks on other nations." Reports from Paris say a Fascist extremist plot to overthrow the Fourth Republic and set up a military-type dictatorship was discovered almost on the eve of the plan's execution, the French government announced. __________________ Cliff Markle HOB1 greatest pitcher 360-160, 9 Welch Awards, 11 WS titles Last edited by Tiger Fan; 06-21-2023 at 06:07 PM.