|
THE SPORTING TIMES — September 22, 1911
By Arthur H. Leland
SENATORS EDGE WHITE SOX, BUT LOSE MOORE FOR THE YEAR
Washington’s 5–4 Victory Comes at a Heavy Cost to Pennant Hopes
Washington, D.C., Sept. 22 — Before a lively crowd at National Park this afternoon, the Washington Senators kept their pennant aspirations alive with a hard-fought 5–4 triumph over the league-leading Chicago White Sox. The win lifts Washington to 77–64 and tightens the race yet again — but the joy in the capital was tempered by grim news that may cast a long shadow over the club’s closing weeks.
Earl Moore, the Senators’ dependable right-hander, carried a narrow one-run lead into the ninth inning, having battled through eight strong frames. But with one out and the tension mounting, Moore halted abruptly mid-delivery, grimacing as he reached for his right shoulder. The crowd fell into a hush as the medical staff converged upon the mound. Moments later, Moore was escorted off, his day — and, as it would turn out, his season — finished.
Moore’s final line for the afternoon stood at 8⅓ innings, eight hits, and four runs. For the year, he leaves behind a 14–16 record accompanied by a firm 3.19 earned run average, numbers that only hint at his importance to Washington’s campaign.
After the game, the Senators announced the discouraging truth: Moore has suffered a torn labrum, an injury expected to keep him sidelined not only for the remainder of the season but likely through all of next year as well. Recovery is estimated at 11 to 12 months — a daunting timetable for any pitcher, let alone one so integral to Washington’s fortunes.
Moore, subdued but composed, offered a few words despite the difficult news.
“I could tell right away something had given,” Moore said quietly. “You fight all year for your club, and to be put out now — when the boys need every arm — it’s a hard thing to swallow. But I’ll follow the doctor’s orders and work my way back. That’s all a man can do.”
Manager Chase Stone, though pleased with the victory, spoke with heavy concern for his injured pitcher.
“Earl has been a backbone for us all season,” Stone remarked. “To lose him at this stage is a cruel blow, no doubt about it. But this club has grit, and we’ll keep fighting. As for Earl, the Senators will stand by him every step of the way. He’s a good man, and we’ll be ready to welcome him back when he’s healed.”
Washington may have taken the game, but the larger battle now grows steeper. The Senators’ chase continues — though without the arm that helped bring them this far.
|