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WINTER TRADING SEASON BRINGS MUCH MOVEMENT ACROSS THE CIRCUITS

By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times
Additional reporting by Charles H. Wentworth, Sporting Times
December 13th, 1903

Eight deals completed as clubs seek to strengthen ahead of draft

Though the autumn months often bring quiet to the base ball fraternity, this year has proven an exception. With the first-year player draft close at hand and scouting men preparing to convene at the winter combine, no fewer than eight trades have already been struck, altering the rosters of several clubs in meaningful ways.

Giants and Reds Strike Early
The opening move came October 9th, when the New York Giants sent right-hander Bill Phyle, aged 28, to Cincinnati in exchange for the younger hurler Charlie Case. The Giants seek to replenish their staff with youth, while the Reds welcome a seasoned arm.
“I’ve enjoyed my time in New York,” said Phyle, “but Cincinnati has a strong club and I’m eager to prove myself in their colors.”

Senators and Cardinals Exchange Parts
On October 16th, Washington dispatched second baseman John Farrell to St. Louis for right fielder Harry Arndt. Farrell, who batted .253 in 137 starts, leaves the capital after steady service. “It’s never easy to leave teammates,” Farrell remarked, “but I see opportunity in St. Louis, and I mean to take it.”

Cubs and Naps Make a Catcher’s Deal
The Chicago Cubs, seeking help behind the plate, moved veteran pitcher Davy Dunkle to Cleveland on October 21st, receiving catchers Paddy Livingston and Jack Robinson in return. Dunkle had posted a 10-12 mark in 24 starts last season.
“I’ll miss Chicago,” said Dunkle, “but a change of scene may be just what I need to get back to winning ways.”

The Naps, not done yet, secured Al Shaw from Detroit the next day, giving up shortstop Heinie Wagner. Shaw, a durable backstop who batted .282 in 115 starts, will now handle Cleveland’s young staff.

Highlanders and Tigers Swap Catcher for Corner Man
October 27th brought another move, as New York’s Highlanders dealt catcher Ed Phelps to Detroit for veteran third baseman Doc Casey. Phelps, who hit .261 last year, expressed gratitude for his Highlander tenure. “Detroit will be a fine challenge for me,” he said. Casey, who batted .286 in 132 starts, brings steady hands to New York’s infield.

Browns and Senators Make November Move
On November 1st, the Browns parted with third baseman Wid Conroy, sending him to Washington for catcher Lew Drill. Conroy, who hit .274 in 137 games, was philosophical: “I’ve played hard for the Browns, and I’ll play just as hard for the Senators. That’s all a ballplayer can promise.”

Boston Sends Schrecongost to Phillies
Perhaps the most eye-catching trade came on November 15th, when the Boston Americans sent catcher Ossee Schrecongost, who batted .285 over 119 contests, to the Phillies for right-hander Chappie McFarland. McFarland impressed as a rookie with an 18-13 mark.
“I’ll miss the Boston faithful,” Schrecongost said, “but Philadelphia is hungry, and I’m glad to be part of their fight.”

Senators, White Sox Pull Off Biggest Deal Yet
The Senators struck again November 18th, sending pitcher Ham Iburg and young shortstop Terry Turner to Chicago in exchange for right fielder Zaza Harvey and catcher Larry McLean. Iburg, often plagued by ill health last year, managed only a 4-8 record, while Harvey, though batting just .234, appeared in 134 games. McLean, a promising young catcher, gives Washington depth at a key spot.
“I’m thankful to the Senators for their faith,” said Harvey, “but a new start in Chicago may be best. I’m determined to show I can do more with the bat.”

With so many men on the move, it is clear that the winter months are no longer a time of slumber but of planning, positioning, and no small degree of maneuvering. The combine and draft yet lie ahead, but already the face of the 1904 season is taking shape.