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Old 10-13-2025, 11:54 AM   #212
amead17
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Nap Lajoie 1000 Runs

LAJOIE CROSSES 1,000 CAREER RUNS AS ATHLETICS SPLIT DOUBLEHEADER IN BOSTON

By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times
May 30, 1906

It seems not a week goes by without Napoleon “Nap” Lajoie adding another shining mark to his already distinguished career. Just days after driving in his 1,000th run, the Philadelphia Athletics’ captain reached another rare plateau — scoring the 1,000th run of his career — as the reigning champions took the first game of a doubleheader from the Boston Americans, 4–1, this afternoon in Boston.

The first game remained a tense scoreless duel through seven innings until the top of the eighth, when Lajoie’s bat once again proved decisive. With Harry Wakefield on base, Lajoie lined a single that brought him home to open the scoring. Moments later, the Athletics’ attack surged again as Socks Seybold sent a drive soaring 367 feet into the left-field stands, a three-run homer that put Philadelphia firmly ahead 4–0.

Lajoie finished the opener 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored, a performance that not only sealed the game but etched his name once more into baseball’s record books. The second game of the day saw the Athletics fall 3–1, but Lajoie continued his fine hitting form, going 3-for-4 despite failing to cross the plate.

The split left the Athletics at 24–17 for the season, still well in contention as May draws to a close. Lajoie’s .314 batting average underscores his consistency and class — hallmarks of a man whose career, begun in 1894, shows no signs of slowing.

After the game, Lajoie reflected on the achievement with characteristic modesty.

“I don’t think much on the numbers,” he said. “Runs only matter if they help us win, and today that first one set us on our way. I’m glad to have done my part for the club.”

Manager Chris Smith was quick to praise his star player’s leadership and durability.

“Nap’s the kind of man every manager wishes he had nine of,” Smith remarked. “He leads by example — steady at the plate, steady in the field, and never satisfied with yesterday’s work. One thousand runs tells the story of a player who’s been doing it right for a very long time.”

As the Athletics head into June, Philadelphia fans can only marvel at the continued excellence of their field general — a man whose bat and spirit keep driving their team forward.
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