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SPORTING TIMES — July 31st, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley
TRADE DEADLINE CLOSES WITH SENATORS AND REDS LEADING ACTIVITY
As the month of July draws to a close, the baseball world has seen the trade deadline window close, and teams have put the finishing touches on their rosters for the stretch drive toward the pennants. This year’s market was quieter than usual, with only three trades of note, yet the American League leading Washington Senators and the National League Cincinnati Reds figured prominently in the activity.
The first move came on July 15th, when the Senators shipped left-handers Al Schulz, 24, and Howard McGraner, 23, to the National League Reds, receiving in return 31-year-old right-hander Buck O’Brien. O’Brien has struggled this year, posting a 7–12 record with a 5.12 ERA in 23 starts, but Washington hopes his veteran presence can help solidify the pitching staff for the stretch run.
Two days later, on July 17th, the Senators made a second move, sending 24-year-old shortstop Marty Krug to Cincinnati for 35-year-old right-hander George McConnell. McConnell enters with a 9–10 record and a 3.48 ERA from 22 starts, adding another experienced arm to the Senators’ rotation.
Finally, on July 31st, the American League Cleveland Naps were active in the market, trading 30-year-old right fielder Solly Hofman and 24-year-old right fielder Wally Rehg to the Philadelphia Phillies of the National League. In return, Cleveland received 23-year-old shortstop Jimmy Esmond and 23-year-old catcher Dick Cotter. Hofman, struggling at the plate this year, has hit .230 over 66 starts and 84 games.
While the trades were modest in number, they represent a strategic move for teams aiming to bolster pitching and fill gaps for the stretch run. Washington, in particular, looks to add veteran stability, while Cleveland and Cincinnati hope their new acquisitions can provide the spark needed to make up ground in their respective leagues.
No commentary from players or managers has been reported at this time, but the season enters August with rosters set and pennant races shaping up to be fiercely contested.
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