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amead17 · 09-22-2025, 11:03 AM

NEW MANAGERS TAKE THE HELM IN PHILADELPHIA AND BROOKLYN

By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times
October 13th, 1903

The off-season continues to produce intrigue, and today brought clarity to the managerial vacancies that stirred much conversation around base ball circles. Three clubs—two in Philadelphia and one in Brooklyn—have now settled their affairs and installed new men at the helm.

The most notable appointment comes from the American League, where the Philadelphia Athletics have entrusted their fortunes to Chris Smith, late of the St. Louis Cardinals bench. Smith, who has aided the Cardinals in securing two third-place finishes and one fifth over the past three seasons, now takes command of a club that fell narrowly short in its pennant chase this year. Expectations will be heavy upon his shoulders.
Smith, upon being introduced, remarked:
“I know the task before me is great, but I welcome it. The Athletics have the talent to contend and to win. My aim is to mold that talent into a champion side, and I intend to give this city the pennant it craves.”

In the National League, both the Philadelphia Phillies and the Brooklyn Superbas have taken bold leaps into uncharted waters, selecting leaders with no prior professional managerial experience.

The Phillies have turned to Brian Casto, a man whose enthusiasm and organizational mind have impressed the club’s directors. Casto greeted his appointment with optimism:
“I may be new to the professional ranks, but I understand the game and the men who play it. I promise the Phillies faithful that I will give every ounce of energy to make this club respectable again.”

Meanwhile, across the East River, the Brooklyn Superbas announced Jason Leach as their next manager. Brooklyn supporters, weary of a last-place finish, may be cautious in their hopes, but Leach spoke with confidence:
“This is an opportunity I cherish. Brooklyn deserves a ball club that plays with pride, and my goal is to restore that spirit. We will not be content with the cellar—our sights are higher.”

Whether these choices will bring triumph or toil is a matter only the 1904 season can decide. For now, three fresh faces carry with them the hope of transformation, each determined to prove worthy of the trust placed in them.

09-22-2025, 11:03 AM	#123
amead17 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 8,613	New managers NEW MANAGERS TAKE THE HELM IN PHILADELPHIA AND BROOKLYN By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times October 13th, 1903 The off-season continues to produce intrigue, and today brought clarity to the managerial vacancies that stirred much conversation around base ball circles. Three clubs—two in Philadelphia and one in Brooklyn—have now settled their affairs and installed new men at the helm. The most notable appointment comes from the American League, where the Philadelphia Athletics have entrusted their fortunes to Chris Smith, late of the St. Louis Cardinals bench. Smith, who has aided the Cardinals in securing two third-place finishes and one fifth over the past three seasons, now takes command of a club that fell narrowly short in its pennant chase this year. Expectations will be heavy upon his shoulders. Smith, upon being introduced, remarked: “I know the task before me is great, but I welcome it. The Athletics have the talent to contend and to win. My aim is to mold that talent into a champion side, and I intend to give this city the pennant it craves.” In the National League, both the Philadelphia Phillies and the Brooklyn Superbas have taken bold leaps into uncharted waters, selecting leaders with no prior professional managerial experience. The Phillies have turned to Brian Casto, a man whose enthusiasm and organizational mind have impressed the club’s directors. Casto greeted his appointment with optimism: “I may be new to the professional ranks, but I understand the game and the men who play it. I promise the Phillies faithful that I will give every ounce of energy to make this club respectable again.” Meanwhile, across the East River, the Brooklyn Superbas announced Jason Leach as their next manager. Brooklyn supporters, weary of a last-place finish, may be cautious in their hopes, but Leach spoke with confidence: “This is an opportunity I cherish. Brooklyn deserves a ball club that plays with pride, and my goal is to restore that spirit. We will not be content with the cellar—our sights are higher.” Whether these choices will bring triumph or toil is a matter only the 1904 season can decide. For now, three fresh faces carry with them the hope of transformation, each determined to prove worthy of the trust placed in them.