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Hess Injured
GIANTS EDGE PHILLIES, BUT LOSE HESS FOR SEASON
By Charles H. Wentworth, Sporting Times
August 2, 1904
New York victory overshadowed by grievous blow to pitching corps
The New York Giants secured a narrow 2–1 triumph over the Philadelphia Phillies at the Polo Grounds yesterday, yet their celebration was muted by the grim loss of pitcher Otto Hess, whose injured arm has ended his campaign. The victory, decided by two tallies in the sixth frame, raised New York’s mark to 53–42 and kept them within striking distance in the National League chase.
The mishap befell Hess in the fifth inning. After delivering a pitch, he clutched at his elbow with a look of anguish and motioned for the trainer. The medical men hurried to his side, and it was immediately clear his day was done. He was led to the clubhouse to undergo further examination.
The diagnosis was dispiriting: Hess has suffered a torn ligament in his pitching arm, an injury that will require nearly ten months of recovery. The left-hander, who has carried a heavy burden for the Giants this season, finishes with a mark of 11–13 and a glittering 2.19 earned run average. His availability for the opening of the 1905 season remains in grave doubt.
Hess, though clearly disappointed, managed words of resolve when approached after the announcement. “It is a hard thing to be set aside when the club is still in the thick of the race,” he admitted. “But I shall do all that is asked of me in the way of recovery, and I mean to return as strong as ever. This game has given me my chance, and I am not through with it yet.”
Manager George Davis lamented the cruel twist of fortune for both player and club. “Otto has been one of our steadiest men, and to lose him now is a sore misfortune,” said Davis. “But the season is long yet, and we must carry on with those who remain. The fellows know what is at stake, and I expect them to answer the call.”
For the Giants, the victory over Philadelphia is small solace for the greater loss. Their pursuit of Chicago and Pittsburgh grows more difficult without their southpaw stalwart.
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