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Bill Keister 2500 Hits
SPORTING TIMES — SEPTEMBER 30, 1910
By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times
BROOKLYN EDGES PHILLIES 6–5 AS BILL KEISTER RECORDS 2,500TH HIT
Veteran Infielder Shines in Rare Start for the Superbas
Brooklyn, Sept. 30 — The Brooklyn Superbas, though fading somewhat in the late going, offered their supporters a lively contest at Washington Park this afternoon, securing a 6–5 victory over the pennant-hunting Philadelphia Phillies. The win lifted Brooklyn to 71–76 on the season and provided a welcome bright moment amid a modest September drift.
No moment shone brighter than that belonging to veteran infielder Bill Keister, who in a rare starting assignment collected the 2,500th hit of his long and steady career. Keister went 2-for-4 on the afternoon, his milestone blow greeted warmly by the Brooklyn faithful who recognized the achievement owed to years of perseverance.
Though he owns a respectable .275 average this season, Keister has found himself employed sparingly, with only 34 starts across 113 games, making today’s contribution all the more meaningful. Now 39 years of age, Keister’s career, which began in 1896, has produced a sturdy .295 lifetime average and a reputation for reliability whenever called upon.
Postgame Reflections
Keister, modest as ever, downplayed his personal feat:
“A ballplayer just tries to be ready when his name is written in. I’m grateful for the chance to help today, and reaching that number… well, it means I’ve been at this game a long while. I’m glad I could do my part.”
Superbas manager Ned Hanlon was quick to praise his veteran’s professionalism:
“Bill’s the sort of man every club needs — steady, prepared, and never one to complain. He came in today and gave us exactly what we needed. A milestone like his doesn’t come by accident; it comes from years of hard work.”
A rewarding afternoon for Brooklyn, and a memorable one for Keister, whose bat spoke loudly even in limited opportunity.
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