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amead17 · 09-28-2025, 01:31 AM

KID NICHOLS STRIKES OUT 2,000TH BATTER IN CUBS’ VICTORY

By Charles H. Wentworth, Sporting Times
August 3, 1904

Chicago ace reaches historic mark as Cubs down Giants, 5–2

The Chicago Cubs continue their march atop the National League, claiming a 5–2 triumph over the New York Giants today at the Polo Grounds. While the victory added another notch to Chicago’s tally, the day belonged to veteran hurler Kid Nichols, who etched his name yet again into the record books by recording his 2,000th career strikeout.

The moment came in the bottom of the eighth with the Cubs ahead 5–1. Giants outfielder Ducky Holmes strode to the plate, only to be caught looking as Nichols delivered a masterful third strike that froze the veteran in his tracks. The milestone was greeted with hearty applause from the Chicago bench, though the cheers were dampened a batter later when Nichols surrendered a solo home run.

Still, the blemish could not mar the occasion. Nichols finished the day steady and victorious, improving his season mark to 14–11 with a sterling 1.63 earned run average. His career, which began in 1890 when he was but a fresh-faced 20-year-old, now boasts a glittering 373–224 record and an ERA of 2.97. Since joining the Cubs via trade in 1902, Nichols has remained the linchpin of the Chicago staff.

Nichols was characteristically modest in reflecting on his achievement. “I’ve always tried to pitch to win ballgames first, and the numbers take care of themselves,” he said with a faint smile. “Two thousand strikeouts is a fine thing, but what pleases me most is helping this club stay out in front.”

Cubs manager Tom Loftus lauded both the victory and his ace’s milestone. “Kid Nichols has given this game more than a decade of greatness, and he still pitches with the fire of a man half his years,” Loftus declared. “We are fortunate to have him leading our staff as we chase the pennant.”

With the win, the Cubs now stand at 62–35, keeping themselves firmly ahead of the pack in the National League race. For Nichols, the day was a fitting testament to a career already gilded with triumphs, yet still burning bright.

09-28-2025, 01:31 AM	#148
amead17 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 8,982	Nichols 2000 strikeouts KID NICHOLS STRIKES OUT 2,000TH BATTER IN CUBS’ VICTORY By Charles H. Wentworth, Sporting Times August 3, 1904 Chicago ace reaches historic mark as Cubs down Giants, 5–2 The Chicago Cubs continue their march atop the National League, claiming a 5–2 triumph over the New York Giants today at the Polo Grounds. While the victory added another notch to Chicago’s tally, the day belonged to veteran hurler Kid Nichols, who etched his name yet again into the record books by recording his 2,000th career strikeout. The moment came in the bottom of the eighth with the Cubs ahead 5–1. Giants outfielder Ducky Holmes strode to the plate, only to be caught looking as Nichols delivered a masterful third strike that froze the veteran in his tracks. The milestone was greeted with hearty applause from the Chicago bench, though the cheers were dampened a batter later when Nichols surrendered a solo home run. Still, the blemish could not mar the occasion. Nichols finished the day steady and victorious, improving his season mark to 14–11 with a sterling 1.63 earned run average. His career, which began in 1890 when he was but a fresh-faced 20-year-old, now boasts a glittering 373–224 record and an ERA of 2.97. Since joining the Cubs via trade in 1902, Nichols has remained the linchpin of the Chicago staff. Nichols was characteristically modest in reflecting on his achievement. “I’ve always tried to pitch to win ballgames first, and the numbers take care of themselves,” he said with a faint smile. “Two thousand strikeouts is a fine thing, but what pleases me most is helping this club stay out in front.” Cubs manager Tom Loftus lauded both the victory and his ace’s milestone. “Kid Nichols has given this game more than a decade of greatness, and he still pitches with the fire of a man half his years,” Loftus declared. “We are fortunate to have him leading our staff as we chase the pennant.” With the win, the Cubs now stand at 62–35, keeping themselves firmly ahead of the pack in the National League race. For Nichols, the day was a fitting testament to a career already gilded with triumphs, yet still burning bright.