Notes from history

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CARDINALS HOLD FIRST PICK AS 1908 DRAFT COMBINE BEGINS

170 Hopefuls Vie for Shot at Major League Glory

By Samuel T. Kingsley and Arthur H. Leland, Sporting Times
December 13th, 1908

The off-season takes a decisive turn this week as the annual Major League Draft Combine opens its doors. A total of 170 young hopefuls have assembled to showcase their talents in the hope of earning a coveted place in the professional ranks. Scouts from every corner of the league have descended upon the proceedings, clipboards in hand, eager to uncover the next generation of stars.

Top Prospects Emerge

Among this year’s pool, several position players have already drawn considerable attention for their polish and poise at the plate. Dick Hoblitzel, Jack Myers, Dots Miller, Clyde Engle, Rebel Oaks, and Ray Demmitt are all viewed as capable of stepping directly into a major-league lineup come spring.

On the mound, Jim Scott stands out as the lone pitching prospect widely regarded as ready for first-day duty, his combination of size, command, and control setting him apart from the rest.

While not yet fully refined, a handful of names are being whispered as future stars in the making. Among the batsmen, Zack Wheat, Fred Beck, and Harry Hooper have shown glimpses of great promise, though they will require further seasoning before making a lasting impact. The pitching corps, by contrast, looks thinner; most arms are viewed as potential middle-rotation men rather than immediate headliners.

Cardinals Control the Top of the Board

Holding the number one overall pick, the St. Louis Cardinals enter the draft with much anticipation surrounding their decision. After a disappointing campaign, the club finds itself in a position to select a cornerstone player who could help shape the franchise’s fortunes for years to come.

Manager General Stafford, addressing reporters earlier today, acknowledged both the weight and the opportunity of the task ahead.

“It’s a fine class this year,” Stafford remarked. “There are a few young men who could step straight into a ballclub and make a difference, and plenty more who’ll blossom with time. We’re studying every option carefully — whether we go for a bat or an arm, we want someone who’ll help turn St. Louis into a winning club again.”

As the combine unfolds and evaluations continue, speculation will only grow louder. The Cardinals’ selection, expected to be announced within the week, may well set the tone for the 1909 season — and perhaps the next era of professional baseball.

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CARDINALS SELECT CATCHER JACK MEYERS FIRST OVERALL IN 1908 MAJOR LEAGUE DRAFT

St. Louis Hopes for a Day-One Starter Behind the Plate as Teams Begin Contract Talks

By Charles H. Wentworth and George F. Winthrop, Sporting Times
December 15th, 1908

The 1908 Major League Draft has drawn to a close, and the selections are now official. All eyes were on St. Louis, where the struggling Cardinals held the coveted first overall pick and faced the challenge of setting the tone for the rest of the draft. After much deliberation, the club chose Jack Meyers, a 28-year-old catcher expected to be a day-one starter if he signs his contract.

Cardinals Place Faith in a Proven Backstop

Manager General Stafford addressed reporters following the selection, emphasizing the club’s desire to add a steady, mature presence behind the plate.

“We had a number of fine young men to consider,” Stafford said. “But Meyers stood out to us as someone ready to step in and handle a pitching staff from the start. He’s got the tools, the toughness, and the experience we need. This is a big step forward for the Cardinals.”

For his part, the new top pick appeared eager for the opportunity to prove himself.

“It’s an honor to be chosen first,” said Meyers. “I’ve worked hard to get here, and I’m ready to give St. Louis everything I’ve got. If we can get a deal done, I’ll be behind that plate come opening day.”

Teams now have until mid-February to negotiate and sign their draft selections if they hope to see them take the field in 1909.

1908 Major League Draft Results

Round 1

St. Louis Cardinals: C Jack Meyers, age 28

Detroit Tigers: LF Zack Wheat, age 20

Brooklyn Superbas: CF Fred Beck, age 22

St. Louis Browns: LF Harry Hooper, age 21

Chicago White Sox: 2B Dots Miller, age 22

Philadelphia Phillies: 1B Fred Luderus, age 23

Cincinnati Reds: 1B Dick Hoblitzel, age 20 (Minnesota State University Mankato)

Boston Doves: SS Art Fletcher, age 23

Washington Senators: SP Willie Mitchell, age 19

New York Giants: SP Fred Anderson, age 23

New York Highlanders: SP Jim Scott, age 20

Philadelphia Athletics: SP Louis Drucke, age 20

Cleveland Naps: LF Clyde Engle, age 24

Philadelphia Athletics: SP Ray Collins, age 21

Chicago Cubs: C Doc Wiley, age 21

Boston Red Sox: CF Ray Demmitt, age 24

Pittsburgh Pirates: SP Bob Groom, age 24

Round 2

St. Louis Cardinals: C Ted Easterly, age 23

Detroit Tigers: RP Russ Ford, age 25

Brooklyn Superbas: 1B Bill Pettus, age 24

St. Louis Browns: SS Stuffy McInnis, age 18

Chicago White Sox: 3B Tillie Shafer, age 19

Philadelphia Phillies: CF Spottswood Poles, age 20

Cincinnati Reds: CF Rebel Oakes, age 24

Boston Doves: LF Rube Ellis, age 23

Washington Senators: SP Harry Suter, age 21

New York Giants: SP Jack Quinn, age 25

New York Highlanders: CF Burt Shotton, age 24

Philadelphia Athletics: SP Dixie Walker, age 20

Cleveland Naps: SS Tom Downey, age 24

Chicago Cubs: SS Morrie Rath, age 20

Boston Red Sox: SP Marty O'Toole, age 20 (University of Portland)

Pittsburgh Pirates: CF Ward Miller, age 24

Round 3

St. Louis Cardinals: SS Ashes Jackson, age 25

Brooklyn Superbas: SP King Cole, age 22

Detroit Tigers: 1B Del Gainer, age 22

Brooklyn Superbas: LF Ham Hyatt, age 24

St. Louis Browns: RP Pat Ragan, age 25

Chicago White Sox: SP Dolly Gray, age 30

Philadelphia Phillies: 3B Jimmy Austin, age 29

Cincinnati Reds: SP Rip Hagerman, age 22

Boston Doves: CF Bill O'Hara, age 27

Washington Senators: SP Ralph Works, age 20

New York Giants: C Tommy Clarke, age 20

New York Highlanders: SP Grover Lowdermilk, age 23

Philadelphia Athletics: SP Tommy Atkins, age 21

Cleveland Naps: RF Hi Myers, age 19

Chicago Cubs: RF George Hunter, age 21

Boston Red Sox: SP Elmer Knetzer, age 23

Pittsburgh Pirates: SP John Raleigh, age 21

With negotiations now underway, the attention of fans and managers alike will turn to who signs — and who holds out. But for today, it is Jack Meyers’ name that headlines the next generation of major league talent.

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QUIET WINTER ON THE TRADING FRONT AS CLUBS TURN FOCUS TO NEW DRAFT SIGNEES

Only Two Deals Concluded Since December as Teams Prepare for 1909 Season

By Arthur H. Leland, Sporting Times
February 12th, 1909

The winter trade market has been notably subdued following the completion of the draft, with clubs largely occupied in the task of securing signatures from their newly selected prospects. In what has proven to be one of the quieter offseasons in recent years, only two trades have been completed between late December and mid-February.

The first deal came on December 18th, when the Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds reached an agreement that saw third baseman Billy Purtell, age 22, sent to Cincinnati in exchange for veteran right-hander Stoney McGlynn, 36, and second baseman Jack Barry, age 21. Purtell appeared in 67 games last season for Chicago, batting .177. The move gives the Reds a youthful option at third, while the Cubs gain both experience on the mound and a promising young infielder for the future.

The only other transaction occurred in January, with the Pittsburgh Pirates and Philadelphia Phillies executing a quiet swap of reserve talent. Pittsburgh dealt shortstop Birdie Cree, 26, to Philadelphia in return for right-handed pitcher Frank Arellanes, also 26. Both clubs described the move as an exchange of depth pieces ahead of spring training.

Beyond these minor adjustments, front offices throughout the league appear content to hold their ground until their draft selections are signed and settled. As the February signing deadline approaches, the baseball world watches with interest to see which of the new crop of talent will make the leap to the professional ranks this coming spring.

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DRAFT SIGNINGS COMPLETE — FEWER BIG CONTRACTS HANDED OUT AS TEAMS TIGHTEN PURSE STRINGS

Several Young Prospects Decline to Sign, Opting for College and Another Chance Next Year

By George F. Winthrop, Sporting Times
February 13th, 1909

With the signing window for newly drafted players now closed, it has become clear that this year’s class has entered the professional ranks under a noticeably leaner financial climate. The once-lavish bonuses seen in previous years have diminished, as clubs across both leagues show greater restraint in what they are willing to offer their young hopefuls.

Fewer players crossed the $1,000 mark this season, a clear sign of tightened budgets and more cautious spending. The top selection, Jack Meyers, was the most handsomely rewarded of the lot, collecting a $1,610 bonus from the St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals made quick work of their negotiations in December, securing the catcher’s signature before the year-end lull.

Other notable signings over the thousand-dollar threshold include:

Willie Mitchell, Washington Senators — $1,560

Zack Wheat, Detroit Tigers — $1,390

Harry Hooper, St. Louis Browns — $1,370

Art Fletcher, Boston Doves — $1,190

Fred Beck, Brooklyn Superbas — $1,090

Yet, amid these completed signings, not every draftee will be joining their new clubs this spring. Five players declined to agree to terms, opting instead to enter college programs and re-enter next year’s draft pool.

Those who failed to come to terms include:

Cleveland Naps: 3rd round pick Hi Myers

Philadelphia Athletics: 1st round pick Louis Drucke

St. Louis Browns: 2nd round pick Stuffy McInnis

Brooklyn Superbas: 4th round pick Bill Lindsay

Brooklyn Superbas: 9th round pick Ray Brown

The reasons for the refusals appear largely financial, as clubs showed little willingness to meet player demands in a cooling market. Nevertheless, these young men are expected to return to the baseball conversation next winter—perhaps more seasoned, and with stronger bargaining positions when their names come up once again.

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TWO LATE TRADES CLOSE THE WINTER MARKET — CARDINALS AND SENATORS BOLSTER ROSTERS AHEAD OF SEASON OPENING

Boston and Chicago Also Make Final Adjustments Before Spring Play Begins

By Charles H. Wentworth, Sporting Times
April 11th, 1909

Though the off-season was nearing its end, a pair of late trades have shown that clubs remain determined to fine-tune their rosters before the first pitch of the new campaign. Both St. Louis and Washington made notable moves in recent weeks, seeking to add youth and stability in key positions.

On February 26th, the St. Louis Cardinals completed a deal with the Boston Red Sox, sending left fielder Moose McCormick, age 27, to Boston in exchange for first baseman Fred Merkle, age 20. McCormick, who hit .261 last season in 59 pinch-hit appearances, will add valuable depth to the Red Sox outfield and provide a proven bat off the bench. In return, St. Louis acquires one of the league’s more promising young infielders in Merkle—a player still developing but widely regarded for his natural hitting ability and fielding promise.

Just days later, on March 9th, the Washington Senators and Chicago White Sox struck a deal of their own. The Senators traded right-hander Doc Martin, age 21, to Chicago, receiving second baseman Dave Brain, age 30, in return. Brain, a seasoned veteran, appeared in 154 games last year but managed only a .163 batting average. Washington, however, is said to value his defensive steadiness and experience around the bag. For the White Sox, Martin represents a youthful arm with potential upside—an investment for the seasons ahead.

With these transactions finalized, clubs across both leagues now turn their full attention to spring training and the fast-approaching season, where the true value of these final roster moves will soon be revealed.

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“RED SOX AND PIRATES TIPPED TO REPEAT IN PENNANT RACES”

By Samuel T. Kingsley and Arthur H. Leland, Sporting Times

THE SPORTING TIMES — April 12, 1909

The grandstands are newly painted, the outfields trimmed, and the scent of fresh-cut grass once more fills the air of America’s ballparks. With the turnstiles soon to click and the season’s first pitches about to be thrown, hopeful fans across the land are dreaming anew of pennants and glory. Here at The Sporting Times, we polish up our crystal ball and venture our customary forecast of the season to come.

American League Outlook

Last autumn, the Boston Red Sox stood proudly atop the baseball world, and the signs suggest that Jim Manning’s men will not easily relinquish their crown. The Red Sox are predicted to finish with an impressive 97–57 record, leading the American League with a .630 percentage. Boston is expected to outscore opponents 701 to 549, boasting a sturdy team batting average of .260 and a team ERA of 2.50—numbers that mark them again as the class of the circuit.

Pitcher Ed Walsh, who captured hearts and games alike last year, is forecasted to lead the staff with 28 victories and a 1.83 ERA. His moundmate Howie Camnitz is tipped for a fine season of his own with 25 wins, ensuring that the Red Sox possess one of the strongest one-two combinations in the game. Outfielder Red Murray is projected to be a leading force at the plate, hitting .305 with 10 home runs and 98 runs batted in, while Ray Demmitt adds speed and spark from center field.

In pursuit, the Cleveland Naps appear the most dangerous challengers. With Tris Speaker patrolling center and Johnny Evers steady at second, the Naps’ offense should be lively. Pitchers Harry Krause and Louis Leroy—predicted to combine for nearly 50 victories—give Cleveland every chance to make a late-season push.

Behind them, the Chicago White Sox and New York Highlanders round out the upper half of the standings, each expected to play spirited ball but fall short of Boston’s sustained brilliance.

The Detroit Tigers, Philadelphia Athletics, and Washington Senators seem likely to scrap for the middle ground, while the St. Louis Browns, despite John Henry Lloyd’s expected .349 average, appear bound for the cellar once more.

“We’ve the makings of another champion club,” said Red Sox skipper Jim Manning with quiet confidence. “Walsh and Camnitz will keep us in every contest, and the lads know how to score when it matters.”

Cleveland’s Tris Speaker countered gamely: “Boston’s strong, no doubt, but we’ve got legs, bats, and arms enough to give them a scare.”

National League Predictions

Across the way, the Pittsburgh Pirates are tipped to take the National League flag with a predicted 95–59 record, guided by the incomparable Honus Wagner, who is forecast to hit .356 with 7 home runs and 96 runs driven in. Pitching remains their backbone, with Mordecai “Three Finger” Brown expected to pace the league at 29–9 with a 1.68 ERA, supported ably by Heinie Berger’s 23 victories.

Close behind, though never quite close enough, the Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds look to follow in the standings, with Christy Mathewson’s Giants and the Boston Doves hovering near even footing.

Philadelphia’s Ty Cobb, now wearing the Phillies’ colors, is forecast to stun the senior circuit with a .384 average and 59 stolen bases, a performance that could make him the most talked-about man in baseball before the year is through.

“I don’t much care what the papers predict,” said Wagner, smiling under his mustache. “We’ll do our talking with the bats and gloves.”

Ty Cobb, never one to shy from bold talk, added, “If I get on base, I’m going to score. That’s all there is to it.”

The Sporting Times’ Final Word

Thus, the Sporting Times once again casts its gaze upon the season ahead: a summer of fine pitching, daring base-running, and perhaps another October showdown between Boston and Pittsburgh. If the fates permit, the Red Sox may yet hold the upper hand once more—but as any lover of the game knows, the diamond has a way of humbling every prophet before the year is through.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — April 23, 1909

“COWBOY JONES SIDELINED AS TIGERS’ WOES DEEPEN”
By George F. Winthrop, Sporting Times

The Detroit Tigers’ early campaign has taken a grim turn, and no man feels the weight of it more than pitcher “Cowboy” Jones, who suffered a serious injury during Thursday’s 10–2 defeat at the hands of the Chicago White Sox. The loss drops Detroit to a disappointing 2–7 on the young season and removes from their ranks one of their most seasoned arms.

Jones, who was not expected to pitch, entered the game in relief in the sixth inning, hoping to stem Chicago’s charge. He worked manfully through the sixth, seventh, and most of the eighth, scattering five hits and three runs in 2⅔ innings of duty. But as he delivered the final pitch of the eighth, witnesses saw him wince and clutch at his right shoulder. Moments later, he walked off the diamond in visible pain, assisted by the club’s trainer and physician.

In the clubhouse afterward, the Tigers confirmed that Jones had suffered a shoulder impingement. While the team’s medical staff does not presently believe surgery will be necessary, they announced an estimated five-month recovery period—casting doubt on whether the 34-year-old veteran will take the mound again before the close of the season.

The setback caps a difficult start for the hard-luck hurler, who entered the game with an ERA of 9.28 after surrendering 11 runs over his first two starts. His performance Thursday lifted that figure to 9.45, a reflection of both misfortune and poor defensive support behind him.
Despite the gloomy news, Jones remained stoic when speaking to reporters.

“It’s part of the game,” he said quietly, his shoulder bound in bandages. “You give everything you have each time you take the ball. I felt a tug on that last pitch, and I knew right away something wasn’t right. I’ll do what the doctors say and aim to be back before the season’s through.”

Manager Frank Selee, his face drawn with concern, praised the pitcher’s grit even as he acknowledged the blow to his club.

“Cowboy’s as tough as they come,” Selee said. “He wasn’t even scheduled to go in today, but he told me he could give us a few innings and he did just that. It’s a cruel bit of luck for a man who’s always answered the call. We’ll miss his steadiness, no doubt about that.”

With Jones now shelved and the team struggling to find form, Detroit’s path forward looks uncertain. For a club seeking to regain its footing in the young season, the road to recovery—like Jones’s own—may prove a long one.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — April 27, 1909

“SUPERBAS’ GENE McCANN LOST FOR SEASON AFTER ELBOW INJURY”
By Charles H. Wentworth, Sporting Times

The early fortunes of the Brooklyn Superbas have wavered between promise and disappointment, and Tuesday afternoon in Philadelphia brought a heavy dose of the latter. The Superbas fell 6–2 to the Phillies, dropping their record to 5–7, but the defeat itself paled in significance next to the grim news that followed: pitcher Gene McCann has been lost for the season.

McCann’s outing lasted scarcely two pitches. In the very first inning, as he delivered to the plate, he suddenly clutched his elbow and winced in visible pain, halting play at once. The club’s trainers and medical staff hurried to his aid, but it was clear almost immediately that his afternoon—and, as it turns out, his season—was over.
Later examination confirmed the worst fears: a torn flexor tendon in his right elbow, an injury that will require eight months of recovery. The setback ends McCann’s campaign before it had truly begun.

It is an especially cruel blow for the 27-year-old right-hander, who entered the day with an 0–3 record but a commendable 2.45 earned run average over his three starts. Though the victories had eluded him, his steady arm and control suggested that better days were ahead—until fate intervened.
In the clubhouse afterward, a subdued McCann faced reporters with quiet resolve.

“You never think it’ll happen to you,” he said. “I felt something tighten when I came over the top, then a sharp pain. I knew right away I couldn’t go on. It’s a hard thing, but I’ll take the time to heal and come back stronger. That’s all a man can do.”

Superbas manager Ned Hanlon was visibly disappointed, yet full of praise for his stricken pitcher.

“It’s a tough loss for us,” Hanlon said. “Gene’s been giving us good work every time out, even if the results haven’t shown it. The lad’s got heart, and he’s been battling through what I now reckon was discomfort all along. We’ll miss his courage on that mound.”

For Brooklyn, the loss of McCann leaves a sizeable gap in their rotation and a shadow over what had been an improving staff. For McCann himself, the long road back begins now—one paved with determination, patience, and the hope of a healthy return come next spring.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — April 28, 1909

“WHITE SOX STAY HOT, BUT LOSE ABBATICCHIO FOR THE SEASON”
By Arthur H. Leland, Sporting Times

The Chicago White Sox continued their blistering start to the 1909 campaign with a 13–1 rout of the St. Louis Browns at South Side Park this afternoon, improving their record to 10–5. But what should have been another day of triumph for Clark Griffith’s men ended with a cloud of misfortune hanging over it.

Veteran infielder Ed Abbaticchio suffered a serious knee injury in the very first inning, likely ending his season before it had truly begun.

Leading off the bottom of the first, Abbaticchio legged out an infield single, racing down the line and narrowly beating the throw to first. As his foot struck the bag, however, he appeared to stumble awkwardly and fell hard to the ground. He attempted to rise but was clearly unable to put any weight on his left leg. The team’s medical staff rushed to his aid and helped him from the field as the crowd fell silent.

Moments later, he was replaced by a pinch runner, and his afternoon—and perhaps his season—was done.

After the game, club officials confirmed the grim news: a torn posterior cruciate ligament in Abbaticchio’s left knee. The injury will sideline him for at least six months, with the possibility of a seven-month recovery. For the 32-year-old, who had only just begun to find his rhythm this spring, the setback is a cruel blow.

Abbaticchio had been off to a promising start, hitting .293 through 14 games with six runs batted in and six runs scored, anchoring the top of Chicago’s lineup with his steady bat and experienced play.

Speaking to reporters afterward while leaning on a pair of crutches, the usually stoic infielder offered a few quiet words.

“It’s a hard one to take,” Abbaticchio admitted. “You work all winter to be ready, and then something like this happens in a heartbeat. The boys are playing great ball, though, and I’ll be cheering them on every day until I can get back.”

Manager Clark Griffith praised his injured player and lamented the loss.

“Ed’s the kind of fellow every club needs,” Griffith said. “Dependable, disciplined, and smart in the field. You can’t easily replace that kind of man. We’ll adjust as best we can, but it’s a real shame to lose him this early. He’s been a spark for us.”

While the White Sox continue their strong early push for the pennant, Abbaticchio’s absence will surely be felt in both the clubhouse and on the diamond. For now, Chicago marches on—but with one of its trusted veterans watching from the sidelines.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — May 1, 1909

“EARLY FORM TAKES SHAPE AS RED SOX AND WHITE SOX LEAD — COBB AND CAMNITZ STAR IN APRIL”
By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times

With only a dozen or so games played across the leagues, the 1909 baseball season is still in its infancy. Yet even in these early days, the shape of things to come may be starting to show. A strong start rarely guarantees a pennant, but as every club knows, it’s far better to be setting the pace than trying to catch it.

In the American League, last year’s champions, the Boston Red Sox, have wasted no time in showing their title defence will be no easy challenge for the rest of the circuit. Boston currently shares the top spot with the Chicago White Sox, both holding impressive 12–5 records, two games clear of the Cleveland Naps, who sit in third.

At the other end, the St. Louis Browns have endured a rough beginning, languishing in last place with a 5–12 mark—already seven games off the lead.

Across the field in the National League, early intrigue abounds. The Boston Doves have surprised many by claiming a narrow half-game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies and Cincinnati Reds. Meanwhile, the mighty Pittsburgh Pirates, reigning league champions and pre-season favourites, find themselves two and a half games adrift, a reminder that no laurels last long in baseball. At the foot of the table, the New York Giants are struggling to find rhythm, holding a 4–10 record, five games behind the leaders.

April’s Standouts

The first month of play has already produced its share of star performances, with several men setting the tone for what could be memorable campaigns.

American League

Top Batter: Red Murray, Boston Red Sox — A sterling .359 average, 3 home runs, 14 runs batted in, and 14 runs scored.

Top Pitcher: Howie Camnitz, Boston Red Sox — Perfect through April at 4–0 with a 1.25 earned run average, anchoring Boston’s rotation with poise and precision.

Rookie of the Month: Harry Krause, Cleveland Naps — The young hurler has impressed with a 4–1 record and a 1.46 ERA, showing maturity beyond his years.

National League

Top Batter: Ty Cobb, Philadelphia Phillies — The fleet-footed outfielder has been nearly unstoppable, batting .421 with 1 home run, 11 runs driven in, and 9 scored.

Top Pitcher: Babe Adams, Boston Doves — Dominant on the mound, Adams boasts a flawless 4–0 record and a microscopic 0.75 ERA.

Rookie of the Month: Rip Hagerman, Cincinnati Reds — Off to a promising start at 3–1 with a 1.59 ERA, giving Reds fans reason for optimism.

As spring gives way to the long grind of summer, the standings may yet twist and turn—but for now, the Red Sox, White Sox, and Doves have planted their flags early. The question for May is simple: can they hold their ground as the rest of the league comes chasing?

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THE SPORTING TIMES — May 4, 1909

“RUBE WADDELL NOTCHES 200TH CAREER WIN AS PIRATES DOWN CUBS, 4–1”
By Arthur H. Leland, Sporting Times

Chicago, May 4 — The Pittsburgh Pirates have found reason to celebrate at last, and the toast of the clubhouse tonight is their mercurial southpaw, Rube Waddell. Before a brisk Chicago crowd, Waddell turned in a masterful performance to lead the Pirates to a 4–1 victory over the Cubs, a triumph that lifted Pittsburgh to 8–11 on the season.

More than just another victory, this one carried special weight. It marked the 200th win of Waddell’s storied career — a milestone few pitchers ever reach. The 32-year-old left-hander, known as much for his eccentric charm as his devastating curveball, proved once again why he remains one of baseball’s most compelling figures.

Waddell scattered seven hits and issued two walks, allowing only a single run while striking out five. The Pirates’ bats did their part early, pushing across a run in the first inning and adding three more in the fourth, giving their ace a cushion he never relinquished.

For the year, Waddell now stands at 2–3 with a 2.79 earned run average, while his career ledger boasts an impressive 200 wins, 122 losses, and a 2.64 ERA. His 2,243 career strikeouts place him second only to Tim Keefe in the all-time ranks — a testament to both endurance and dominance.

Since debuting in 1897 and joining Pittsburgh in 1900, Waddell has been a cornerstone of the Pirates’ staff. And though his age might suggest decline, his fastball and guile show little sign of wear.

After the game, a beaming Waddell, his arm wrapped in a towel, reflected modestly on the achievement.

“Two hundred wins sounds like a big number,” he said with a grin, “but I’ve just been doing what I love most — throwing the ball past whoever’s at the plate. The boys gave me runs today, and I made sure they stood up.”

Manager Zack Brown was equally appreciative of his veteran’s effort.

“Rube’s been the heart of this club for years,” Brown remarked. “He’s as sharp now as ever, and when he’s in command like today, there aren’t many in the game who can touch him. It’s a fine day for him — and for Pittsburgh baseball.”

For the Pirates, the hope is that Waddell’s milestone marks the beginning of a turnaround. For Waddell himself, it is simply another day’s work in a remarkable career that still feels far from finished.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — May 11, 1909

“FIELDER JONES REACHES 2,000-HIT MILESTONE IN DOVES’ 7–1 LOSS TO REDS”
By George F. Winthrop, Sporting Times

Boston, May 11 — Baseball has always been a game of numbers, and today one of its most enduring figures added another to his ledger. Fielder Jones, the 37-year-old captain and outfielder of the Boston Doves, reached the 2,000-hit milestone of his illustrious career in front of a home crowd at the South End Grounds. Though the Doves fell 7–1 to the visiting Cincinnati Reds, the moment was one of quiet distinction for one of the game’s true professionals.

Jones’ historic hit came as he led off the bottom of the seventh inning, working a full 3–2 count before lining a clean single into left field. Ever the intelligent baserunner, Jones promptly stole both second and third base, showing that even at 37, his instinct and daring on the paths remain sharp. Unfortunately, the Doves’ bats fell silent behind him, leaving him stranded as the inning ended and Boston’s hopes dimmed.

For the afternoon, Jones went 1-for-2, and though his season average sits at .197, the veteran’s place in baseball’s storybook is secure. Since beginning his professional career in 1896, he has maintained a .296 lifetime average, marked by consistent play, leadership, and quiet resolve.

Jones, who came to Boston from the Chicago White Sox in a 1903 trade, has been a steadying presence both on the field and in the clubhouse ever since.

Speaking after the game, Jones downplayed his personal milestone in the face of his club’s defeat.

“I’d trade that hit for a win any day,” he said, a hint of a smile crossing his face. “Still, it’s a fine thing to look back on. You play long enough, keep your head down, and before you know it, you’ve reached a number like that. But I’m not done yet — there’s more baseball in me.”

Manager Kyle Jackson was quick to praise his veteran’s example.

“Fielder’s been the model of consistency since he set foot in this club,” Jackson remarked. “You don’t get to 2,000 hits by luck — it takes grit, patience, and love for the game. The boys could learn plenty just by watching how he goes about his work.”

Though the loss dropped the Doves to 14–11, the afternoon belonged to Fielder Jones — a reminder that in the long march of a baseball season, moments of personal triumph can shine even amid defeat.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — May 22, 1909

“LOUIS LeROY HURLS NO-HITTER AS NAPS BLANK SENATORS, 6–0”
By Charles H. Wentworth, Sporting Times

Cleveland, May 22 — The faithful at League Park were treated to a masterwork in pitching today, as Louis LeRoy of the Cleveland Naps turned in a performance for the ages. The right-hander baffled and subdued the Washington Senators with a no-hit, 6–0 victory, securing both a shutout and his place in club lore.

For LeRoy, it was an afternoon of precision, poise, and quiet dominance. Over nine dazzling innings, he allowed no hits, issuing only five walks and aided by a defense that committed two minor errors, neither of which proved costly. Not once did a Washington runner cross the plate.

The Cleveland bats gave him early support, striking steadily to post runs in the opening frames and allowing LeRoy the comfort to pitch with confidence. When the final out was secured, the home crowd rose in thunderous ovation — a salute to the 28-year-old hurler who had just accomplished one of baseball’s rarest feats.

The victory lifted the Naps to 21–13 on the season, a testament to the solid form that has defined their early campaign. For LeRoy personally, the triumph marked his fourth win of the year against a single loss, while his earned run average now stands at 1.41 across eleven starts — a figure that speaks to his growing command of the mound.

LeRoy, humble in the wake of his milestone, credited his teammates for their steadiness behind him.

“It’s the sort of day a pitcher dreams about,” he said afterward, still grinning beneath a film of sweat and dust. “The ball felt right in my hand from the first pitch. I just wanted to keep it down and let the boys behind me do their work — and they did it all afternoon. This one’s as much theirs as it is mine.”

Manager Tom Laney, in his first year at the helm, could scarcely contain his pride.

“LeRoy was magnificent,” Laney declared. “Every pitch had purpose. You could see from the third inning on that he was in rare form. He’s been building toward this for weeks, and today everything came together. For a young man like him, this could be the start of something very special.”

As the Cleveland crowd drifted out into the spring evening, there was no mistaking the feeling in the air — that they had witnessed a bit of baseball history, one worthy of retelling for many seasons to come.

[amead17]

THE SPORTING TIMES — June 1, 1909

“PENNANT RACE WIDE OPEN AS SUMMER BEGINS — DOVES LEAD NL, HIGHLANDERS AND NAPS TIED IN AL”
By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times

As the calendar turns to June, the 1909 baseball season enters its first summer stretch with the pennant picture still anything but settled. In both leagues, the competition remains fierce, and no team has yet managed to break away from the pack.

In the American League, parity reigns supreme. The New York Highlanders and Cleveland Naps are deadlocked atop the standings, each with a record of 25–18. Both clubs have shown flashes of brilliance — the Highlanders with timely hitting, and the Naps behind a pitching corps that has carried them through the early months. Just behind them, the Chicago White Sox sit one game back, while last year’s champions, the Boston Red Sox, trail by only two and a half games.

Even at the lower reaches of the table, there is life yet. The Washington Senators, eight games behind, and the St. Louis Browns, eight and a half back, may yet mount a challenge should they find their stride as the summer heat sets in.

Across the field in the National League, the race has begun to take more shape — though not without intrigue. The Boston Doves, playing inspired baseball, hold a two and a half game lead at 27–16. Nipping at their heels are the Philadelphia Phillies and Cincinnati Reds, tied for second, both within striking distance. The defending champions, the Pittsburgh Pirates, sit four games off the pace, but their steady pitching has kept them in contention.

At the bottom, the St. Louis Cardinals have stumbled badly, enduring a rough close to May that leaves them thirteen games adrift and a full four and a half games behind seventh place. It has been a grim opening for the men from St. Louis, whose fortunes must soon turn if they are to avoid an early burial in the standings.

Monthly Awards
American League

Top Batter: Johnny Evers, Cleveland Naps — .298 average, 10 RBI, 25 runs scored

Top Pitcher: Harry Krause, Cleveland Naps — 7–2, 1.73 ERA

Rookie of the Month: Harry Krause, Cleveland Naps — 7–2, 1.73 ERA

The young Krause has been nothing short of a revelation for Cleveland, proving every bit the dependable ace his club hoped he would become. His command and poise have anchored the Naps’ early success, earning him the rare distinction of claiming both top pitching and rookie honors in the same month.

National League

Top Batter: Jake Stahl, New York Giants — .306 average, 2 home runs, 24 RBI, 15 runs scored

Top Pitcher: Heinie Berger, Pittsburgh Pirates — 6–2, 1.65 ERA

Rookie of the Month: Jack Quinn, New York Giants — 2–2, 0.82 ERA

Berger’s precision and endurance have kept Pittsburgh in the fight, while Quinn, the promising young Giant, has been a revelation in limited outings, showing an iron nerve beyond his years.

As June begins, every club knows the stakes. The grind of summer baseball awaits — and with it, the chance to define a season. One thing is certain: in 1909, no pennant will be won easily.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — June 1, 1909

“CARDINALS SNAP TEN-GAME SKID — ROOKIE MEYERS LEADS COMEBACK IN PITTSBURGH”
By Arthur H. Leland, Sporting Times

At long last, the dark clouds over St. Louis parted. After ten straight defeats and weeks of frustration, the St. Louis Cardinals finally found their footing this afternoon in Pittsburgh, claiming a hard-fought 9–6 victory over the Pirates. The win, their first in eleven games, lifted their record to 15–29 for the year and offered a rare smile for the weary Cardinals faithful.

For much of the contest, it appeared the misery might continue. The Pirates jumped out early, taking a 5–2 lead after three innings, and by the end of the seventh, the Cardinals still trailed 6–4, staring at the prospect of yet another loss. Then, in the eighth, something stirred in the St. Louis bats — a sudden burst of fight that changed the game’s complexion entirely.

Frank Baker opened the inning with a double down the line, and rookie catcher Jack Meyers, showing the poise of a veteran, followed with a sharp single that brought Baker home. What followed was a hitting parade — four straight singles, each adding to the rally, as the Cardinals stormed ahead with four runs in the frame to seize an 8–6 lead.

They weren’t done yet. In the ninth, Baker struck again, this time driving a triple deep to the gap, setting up an insurance run that sealed the long-awaited victory.

The day’s brightest star was undoubtedly Jack Meyers, who turned in a fine performance at the plate — 2-for-3 with a walk, two runs scored, and two runs batted in. The young backstop, who has quietly impressed in his first full season, lifted his average to .296 and continues to show why the Cardinals had such faith in his promise.

After the game, a visibly relieved General Stafford, the Cardinals’ manager, praised his team’s spirit.

“We’ve had a rough spell, no denying it,” said Stafford, smiling for the first time in weeks. “But the boys didn’t fold. They fought from the first pitch to the last, and today they earned every bit of that win.”

Meyers, still in his dusty gear and grinning broadly, spoke modestly about his role in the victory.

“I just tried to do my part,” the rookie said. “We’ve all been waiting for a game like this — to finally see some of the breaks go our way. Hopefully, this gets us moving in the right direction.”

Whether this win marks a turning point remains to be seen, but for one afternoon in Pittsburgh, the Cardinals rediscovered their fight — and perhaps, their confidence.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — June 4, 1909

“EWING SIDELINED AS CUBS FALL HARD TO PHILLIES — VETERAN PITCHER SUFFERS ARM INJURY IN 14–3 DEFEAT”
By George F. Winthrop, Sporting Times

It was a grim afternoon at West Side Grounds for the Chicago Cubs, as both the scoreboard and fate dealt them a heavy blow. The club was thoroughly beaten by the Philadelphia Phillies, 14–3, but the more painful loss came on the mound — veteran pitcher Bob Ewing left the game in the third inning with an apparent arm injury that has since been diagnosed as an arthritic elbow. The setback is expected to keep the 35-year-old out for three to four months, a crushing development for both the pitcher and his club.

The contest itself unraveled early. Ewing, making his 13th start of the season, struggled from the outset. The Phillies’ bats were lively, and by the third inning they had loaded the bases with no one out. Ewing, clearly laboring and favoring his right arm, finally signaled to the dugout. The club’s trainer and manager Tom Loftus rushed out, and after a brief conference on the mound, Ewing was removed from the game and led quietly back to the clubhouse.

In just two full innings of work, Ewing surrendered six hits, six runs (four earned), and two walks. He was charged with the loss — his eighth of the season — dropping his record to 5–8 with a 3.87 earned run average.

The Phillies continued to pile on against Chicago’s relief corps, cruising to an easy victory that dropped the Cubs to an even 24–24 on the season. Yet the defeat seemed almost secondary to the somber concern surrounding their ailing starter.

After the game, Ewing, his arm bandaged and resting in a sling, spoke briefly but stoically.

“I knew something wasn’t right from the first pitch,” he admitted. “I tried to pitch through it, but by that third inning, I just couldn’t get the ball where I wanted it. I’ll do what I can to get this arm right again — that’s all I can promise.”

Manager Tom Loftus confirmed the diagnosis and offered words of sympathy for his veteran hurler.

“Bob’s as tough as they come,” Loftus said gravely. “He’s given this club everything he’s got, year after year. Losing him for the summer hurts — not just on the field, but in the clubhouse too. We’ll have to rally and keep fighting for him.”

For now, the Cubs must press on without one of their most seasoned pitchers, while Ewing faces a long road back — his spirit undiminished, even as the game reminds him how cruel it can sometimes be.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — June 9, 1909

“CLARKE REACHES MILESTONE AS PIRATES DOWN PHILLIES — VETERAN’S 2500TH HIT HIGHLIGHTS 8–4 WIN”
By Charles H. Wentworth, Sporting Times

PITTSBURGH — Fred Clarke, the long-time pillar of the Pittsburgh Pirates outfield, carved his name even deeper into baseball’s ledger of greats this afternoon. Before a jubilant home crowd, the 36-year-old left fielder recorded the 2,500th hit of his illustrious career, helping propel the Pirates to an 8–4 victory over the visiting Philadelphia Phillies. The win moves Pittsburgh to 29–22 on the season.

The milestone strike came in the bottom of the third, with the Pirates already holding a 4–2 advantage. The bases were full when Clarke stepped to the plate. He delivered with authority, lacing a sharp single down the left line. Fred Tenney trotted home easily, while Ed Hahn, showing fine instincts, never hesitated as he rounded third and slid in ahead of the throw. The blow put Pittsburgh up 6–2, a lead they would carry comfortably the rest of the way.

Clarke was far from finished. He collected three hits in five trips, driving in two runs and continuing a season that has him batting a robust .305.

Now in his 16th major-league campaign, Clarke remains one of the central figures of the Pirates franchise. Since breaking into professional baseball in 1894 and joining Pittsburgh in 1900, he has amassed a .303 lifetime batting average along with 50 home runs — numbers that speak to both longevity and excellence.

After the game, Clarke accepted the ovation of the crowd with characteristic modesty.

“A man doesn’t reach a mark like this alone,” he said with a quiet smile. “I’ve been lucky to play this long, and luckier still to play with fellows who make coming to the ballpark a joy. I’m grateful to the fans here in Pittsburgh — they’ve treated me like family from the first day.”

Pirates manager Zack Brown praised both the milestone and the man who reached it.

“Fred Clarke is the heart of this club,” Brown declared. “He plays the game the right way — smart, steady, dependable. You can’t measure what he means to us in hits alone, but 2,500 is a mighty fine place to start.”

A milestone day, a Pirates victory, and further proof that Fred Clarke remains one of baseball’s enduring treasures.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — July 1, 1909

“PENNANT RACES TIGHTEN AS SUMMER BEGINS — PIRATES BACK ON TOP; HIGHLANDERS HOLD SLIM LEAD IN AMERICAN”
By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times

As the season turns to July and the summer heat begins to take hold, so too have the pennant races in both leagues begun to simmer. Fans from coast to coast are finding plenty to cheer — unless, of course, they make their home in St. Louis, where both clubs find themselves anchored to the bottom of their respective standings.

In the American League, the battle for supremacy remains wide open. The New York Highlanders cling to a half-game lead over the Boston Red Sox, though the gap is far from comfortable. The Cleveland Naps, Detroit Tigers, and Chicago White Sox are all within striking distance — a mere three games separating first from fifth — setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling second half of the season.

Only the St. Louis Browns seem adrift from the fray, their faithful fans growing restless as the club languishes twelve and a half games behind. The Browns, it seems, have little more to play for than pride as summer deepens.

Across the way in the National League, order has been restored — at least for the moment — as the Pittsburgh Pirates reclaimed the top perch with a strong showing through June. Their three-and-a-half game cushion over the Cincinnati Reds gives them breathing room, and their steady form has once again marked them as the team to beat. Still, challengers abound, and the season’s midway mark rarely tells the full story.

At the bottom, however, the St. Louis Cardinals continue to struggle mightily, owning the worst record in all of baseball — a disheartening distinction for the city’s fans who have endured more heartbreak than joy thus far in 1909.

Monthly Awards – June 1909

American League
Top Batter: Mike Donlin, New York Highlanders — .374 average, 1 home run, 18 RBI, 17 runs scored
Top Pitcher: Nap Rucker, Philadelphia Athletics — 7–3, 1.81 ERA
Top Rookie: Jim Scott, New York Highlanders — 4–2, 2.05 ERA

National League
Top Batter: Honus Wagner, Pittsburgh Pirates — .323 average, 15 RBI, 15 runs scored
Top Pitcher: Mordecai Brown, Pittsburgh Pirates — 7–0, 0.79 ERA
Top Rookie: Rip Hagerman, Cincinnati Reds — 3–1, 2.20 ERA

With July now upon us and the true grind of the summer months ahead, the races in both leagues promise drama aplenty — and perhaps a few surprises before autumn settles the final accounts.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — July 15, 1909

“DAHLEN REACHES 2,500 HITS AS SUPERBAS WIN IN EXTRA INNINGS”
By Arthur H. Leland, Sporting Times

Brooklyn, N.Y., July 15 — Fans at Washington Park were treated to a true baseball classic today, as the Brooklyn Superbas battled the Pittsburgh Pirates through ten hard-fought innings before emerging with a 3–2 victory. The win brings Brooklyn to 39–42 on the season and gives their supporters renewed hope that the club’s fortunes may yet turn upward.

But beyond the scoreline, the day belonged to Bill Dahlen, the venerable shortstop who reached a storied milestone with the 2,500th hit of his illustrious career. The achievement came in the sixth inning, a moment greeted with warm applause from the Brooklyn faithful who recognized the veteran’s steady contributions over nearly two decades in the game.

Dahlen came to the plate with no one aboard and an 0–1 count. With his characteristic sharp eye, he drove the next pitch deep toward the right-field fence. The ball struck just inside fair territory, bounding away from the fielder and allowing Dahlen to leg out a triple amid a roar from the stands. Though he would be left stranded on third as the inning ended, the moment was one of pure triumph for the 39-year-old infielder.

For the day, Dahlen went 1-for-2 with two walks and one run scored. His average sits at .200, a reflection of a season interrupted by injury — he missed half of May and all of June with a troublesome back ailment. Yet his resilience and leadership remain vital to the Brooklyn club.

Dahlen began his major league career in 1891 and has been a fixture in Brooklyn since 1900. Over that time, he has compiled a lifetime .271 batting average and earned a reputation as one of the most reliable and durable men in the game.

After the contest, Dahlen, leaning against the dugout railing with a weary smile, reflected modestly on his achievement.

“It’s been a long road, and I’m just thankful to still be out here helping the club,” he said. “You don’t think much about numbers when you’re playing — you just try to do your part every day. I only wish that triple had started a rally.”

Brooklyn manager Ned Hanlon praised his veteran’s effort and endurance:

“Bill’s the kind of ballplayer every club needs — steady, seasoned, and never giving in,” Hanlon remarked. “He’s battled that bad back all spring, but he’s still the heart of this team. A man like that deserves every cheer he gets.”

For both Dahlen and Brooklyn, it was a day to remember — a hard-earned win and a milestone to mark a career that has quietly defined an era of baseball excellence.

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THE SPORTING TIMES — July 17, 1909

“IBURG HURLS NO-HITTER AS WHITE SOX BLANK SENATORS, 3–0”
By George F. Winthrop, Sporting Times

Chicago, Ill., July 17 — The crowd at South Side Park witnessed baseball perfection today as Ham Iburg, the oft-unpredictable right-hander of the Chicago White Sox, turned in a performance for the ages. Iburg baffled and subdued the Washington Senators over nine magnificent innings, tossing a no-hitter and leading the Sox to a 3–0 victory before an appreciative home crowd.

Only three walks blemished what was otherwise a masterclass in control and craft. Iburg’s delivery had the Senators swinging helplessly, his curve dropping like a stone and his fastball darting across the plate with deceptive movement. He struck out eight in all, facing just thirty batters in a crisp, commanding effort.

For much of the afternoon, the game was perilously tight. Chicago clung to a slender 1–0 lead through seven innings, and Iburg had little margin for error. It wasn’t until the bottom of the eighth that the Sox bats came alive again, pushing across two insurance runs to ease the tension and give their pitcher the breathing room he so richly deserved.

The final outs were met with growing anticipation, and when the last Senator went down on strikes, the stands erupted. Teammates mobbed Iburg near the mound, celebrating one of the brightest moments of the season.

The no-hitter was particularly sweet for the 29-year-old hurler, whose 8–13 record has not reflected the quality of his pitching. His 2.63 ERA stands as testament to his steady arm and bad luck in run support rather than inconsistency.

The win brings the White Sox to an even 44–43 on the year, keeping them in the thick of the American League race.

After the game, a smiling but composed Iburg spoke modestly of his triumph:

“I just tried to keep the ball down and let the defense do its work,” he said. “You can’t go out there aiming for a no-hitter — it just happens when everything falls your way. The fellows behind me were sharp all day, and that made all the difference.”

Manager Clark Griffith, visibly pleased, praised his pitcher’s perseverance:

“Ham’s had some tough breaks this season, but I’ve never doubted his ability,” Griffith remarked. “He’s got fine stuff and fine grit — today he showed both in full measure. That’s the kind of pitching that wins pennants.”

For Iburg and the White Sox, it was a day to remember — one of flawless execution, quiet determination, and a glimpse of the greatness that still burns bright on Chicago’s South Side.