Baseball from 1871

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The Baseball Times
October 28th, 1897

McGraw Wins Second MVP Award



At just 25 years old, John McGraw of the Washington Americans has firmly established himself as one of the league's premier players, and the 1897 season has been no exception. The right fielder’s remarkable performance earned him the American Conference Most Valuable Player Award, marking his second MVP honor.

McGraw’s .367 batting average and .484 on-base percentage were instrumental in his standout season, during which he played in 140 games and tallied 191 hits, including 31 doubles, 11 triples, and 2 home runs. He also drove in 81 RBIs and scored 106 runs. His "see the ball, hit the ball" approach to hitting proved effective as he led the league in key offensive categories.

The MVP voting saw McGraw receive 7 first-place votes out of a possible 16. Bob Caruthers of the Columbus Bandits finished second with 4 first-place votes, while Bill Dahlen of the Milwaukee Bucks placed third with 3.

Lyons Clinches 4th MVP Award



The 1897 season has been one of triumph for Denny Lyons of the Pittsburgh Predators. The veteran outfielder’s incredible performance earned him the National Conference Most Valuable Player Award, marking his fourth MVP title.

Lyons posted a phenomenal .407 batting average and a .459 on-base percentage, leading the league with 245 hits. His power at the plate was on full display as he notched 36 doubles, 16 triples, and 20 home runs. He also contributed 151 RBIs and 148 runs scored, proving himself as a key offensive force for the Predators.

In the MVP voting, Lyons received 14 first-place votes out of 16, far outpacing his competitors. Mike Griffin of the New York Saints finished second with 2 first-place votes, while Nap Lajoie of the Cincinnati Wildcats took third.

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The Baseball Times
November 21st, 1897

Quiet Winter Meeting Highlights Success of Feeder Leagues

The annual winter meeting of league officials was a notably quiet affair this year, with much of the discussion focused on the successful implementation of the new feeder leagues. These leagues, which were introduced to develop and nurture emerging talent, were praised for their positive reception and for achieving the goals they had been designed to meet.

While no expansion of feeder leagues is planned for the upcoming season, the league expressed a commitment to aggressively pursue opportunities to introduce more feeder leagues in future years.

Aside from the discussion about feeder leagues, most of the talk at the meeting revolved around potential trades. However, as of now, no significant deals have been finalized or announced.

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The Baseball Times
December 15th, 1897

1897 First-Year Player Draft Sees 353 Selections

The annual first-year player draft took place today, with a total of 353 young talents selected by teams across the league. The draft featured several highly anticipated picks, and many teams will be eager to see how these fresh faces develop in the coming seasons.

Round 1 Selections:
• Boston Rebels: RF Elmer Flick, age 22
• Brooklyn Hitmen: C Frank Chance, age 22
• St. Louis Sox: CF Ginger Beaumont, age 22
• Louisville Captains: RF Emmet Heidrick, age 22
• St. Louis Roughnecks: RF Charlie Hemphill, age 22
• Pittsburgh Predators: 3B Jim Delahanty, age 19
• Boston Bears: 3B Danny Shay, age 22
• Washington Americans: C Frank LaPorte, age 18
• Chicago Cardinals: C Kitty Bransfield, age 23
• Philadelphia Thunder: C Red Dooin, age 19
• Cleveland Royals: 2B Erve Beck, age 20
• Baltimore Barons: RF Josh Clarke, age 19
• Cincinnati Wildcats: LF Spike Shannon, age 23
• Milwaukee Bucks: C Fred Jacklitsch, age 22
• New York Saints: LF George Browne, age 22
• Columbus Bandits: 3B Otto Krueger, age 22

Round 2 Selections:
• Boston Rebels: SP Fred Glade, age 22
• Brooklyn Hitmen: SP Harry Howell, age 22
• St. Louis Sox: 3B George Rohe, age 24
• Louisville Captains: RP Bill Donovan, age 22
• St. Louis Roughnecks: SP Bob Ewing, age 25
• Pittsburgh Predators: SP Wiley Piatt, age 24
• Boston Bears: SP Bill Duggleby, age 24
• Washington Americans: SP Nick Altrock, age 22
• Chicago Cardinals: SP Tom Hughes, age 20
• Philadelphia Thunder: SP Chappie McFarland, age 23
• Cleveland Royals: SP Jack Harper, age 20
• Baltimore Barons: SP Jack Katoll, age 23
• Cincinnati Wildcats: SP Billy Campbell, age 25
• Milwaukee Bucks: SP Ed Poole, age 24
• New York Saints: 2B Harry Gleason, age 23
• Columbus Bandits: C Lew Ritter, age 23

Round 3 Selections:
• Boston Rebels: C Mike Heydon, age 24
• Brooklyn Hitmen: CF Larry Schlafly, age 20
• St. Louis Sox: 1B George Kihm, age 25
• Louisville Captains: SP Bill Carrick, age 25
• St. Louis Roughnecks: 1B Ed Wheeler, age 20
• Pittsburgh Predators: 2B Art Ross, age 26
• Boston Bears: RF Ed Householder, age 29
• Washington Americans: 2B Lou Nordyke, age 22
• Chicago Cardinals: SP Ed Murphy, age 21
• Philadelphia Thunder: SP Doc Reisling, age 24
• Cleveland Royals: SP Elmer Stricklett, age 22
• Baltimore Barons: SP Tom Walker, age 17
• Cincinnati Wildcats: SP Jack Sutthoff, age 25
• Milwaukee Bucks: SP Eli Cates, age 21
• New York Saints: 2B Roy Brashear, age 24
• Columbus Bandits: RF Jack Holland, age 25

The draft provides a glimpse into the future of the league, with a strong showing from both pitchers and position players. Teams will now begin the process of developing these young athletes in hopes of adding fresh talent to their rosters for the upcoming seasons.

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The Baseball Times
April 2nd, 1898

American Conference Preview

As the 1898 season opens, the American Conference is shaping up to be a competitive league with teams looking to build on or recover from last year’s performances. Here’s a look at each team’s prospects for the upcoming season.

Baltimore Barons

• Manager: Andy Leonard (lifetime record: 147-133)
• Last Season: 76-64, 3rd place
• Predicted Record: 76-64, 2nd place

The Barons will be a strong contender once again. With a solid core led by Pete Browning, Jocko Halligan, and Tom McCreery, they are expected to challenge for second place. Their rookie, Danny Green, will add some fresh talent to an already deep lineup. With consistent managerial leadership, they are poised for another solid season.

Boston Rebels

• Manager: Tom Brown (lifetime record: 0-0)
• Last Season: 49-91, 8th place
• Predicted Record: 61-79, 8th place

The Rebels face a tough road ahead after finishing at the bottom last season. New manager Tom Brown is untested, and the team will rely on veterans like Kid Carsey and Buck Freeman. Rookies Elmer Flick and Bunk Congalton will need to step up if the Rebels are to make any significant improvements.

Cleveland Royals

• Manager: Al Barker (lifetime record: 822-807)
• Last Season: 74-66, 4th place
• Predicted Record: 76-64, 3rd place

The Royals remain a competitive side under manager Al Barker. With key players like Bill Lange, Charlie Ferguson, and Oyster Burns, the team is expected to push for a top-three finish. Their steady core, along with a bit of luck, could see them rise in the standings.

Columbus Bandits

• Manager: Henry Austin (lifetime record: 988-612)
• Last Season: 92-48, 1st place (lost World Series)
• Predicted Record: 66-74, 5th place

After a dominant 1897 season, the Bandits are set for a down year. Despite losing in the World Series, manager Henry Austin’s experienced leadership will help the team rebuild. Key stars Bob Caruthers and Lou Bierbauer will have to carry the load, though they may struggle with a predicted drop in performance this season.

Louisville Captains

• Manager: Dave Birdsall (lifetime record: 265-215)
• Last Season: 61-79, 6th place
• Predicted Record: 83-57, 1st place

The Captains are making a strong comeback with a predicted rise to the top. Led by Fred Carroll, the team has potential to climb to first place this season. With key rookies like Emmet Heidrick, Jimmy Burke, and George Kelb, the Captains have the fresh talent needed to make a major impact in the standings.

Milwaukee Bucks

• Manager: Franklin Lang (lifetime record: 157-123)
• Last Season: 82-58, 2nd place
• Predicted Record: 62-78, 7th place

After a strong finish last year, the Bucks are expected to take a step back this season. Despite having stars like Sadie McMahon, Jesse Burkett, and Bill Dahlen, the team will be rebuilding. Rookie Cowboy Jones will be one to watch, but Milwaukee will likely struggle to match last season’s success.

St. Louis Sox

• Manager: Frank Pearce (lifetime record: 59-81)
• Last Season: 59-81, 7th place
• Predicted Record: 63-77, 6th place

The Sox are expected to stay near the bottom of the standings once again this year. Manager Frank Pearce has a tough task ahead of him. With stars like Frank Scheibeck and George Cuppy, the team has talent, but it will need significant improvement to challenge for a higher finish. Rookie Jimmy Williams may bring some much-needed energy.

Washington Americans

• Manager: Jack Chapman (lifetime record: 285-275)
• Last Season: 67-73, 5th place
• Predicted Record: 74-66, 4th place

The Americans are poised to make a push for a stronger finish this season. With a solid roster led by John McGraw, Reddy Mack, Bobby Wallace, and Jerry Nops, Washington will be looking to improve on last year’s performance. Rookie Bill Hallman adds some fresh potential to a well-rounded squad, and the team is expected to contend for a playoff spot.

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The Baseball Times
April 2nd, 1898

National Conference Preview

As the 1898 baseball season gets underway, the National Conference looks set for another thrilling race, with teams vying for dominance. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from each team as the season progresses:

Boston Bears

• Manager: George Derby (lifetime record: 0-0)
• Last Season: 64-76, 5th place
• Predicted Record: 61-79, 7th place

The Bears are expected to struggle this season despite the presence of star players like Honus Wagner, Arlie Pond, and Tom Parrott. New manager George Derby faces a tough challenge, and rookie Tommy Leach will need to make an immediate impact for the team to exceed expectations. The Bears are projected to finish near the bottom of the standings.

Brooklyn Hitmen

• Manager: John King (lifetime record: 0-0)
• Last Season: 59-81, 8th place
• Predicted Record: 70-70, 5th place

The Hitmen are looking to turn things around after a disappointing 1897 season. Under new manager John King, the team is predicted to reach a .500 record this year. With a solid core including Bill Clymer, Charlie Sweney, and Al Mays, and the addition of rookie Frank Chance, Brooklyn is poised for a mid-tier finish in a competitive conference.

Chicago Cardinals

• Manager: Zachary Taylor (lifetime record: 202-218)
• Last Season: 70-70, 4th place
• Predicted Record: 73-67, 3rd place

The Cardinals are set to build on their steady performance last season and look to improve further. With stars Hugh Duffy and Willie Keeler leading the way, Chicago is projected to finish in the top three of the conference. They will rely on their experienced lineup to challenge for a playoff spot.

Cincinnati Wildcats

• Manager: Malachi Beacham (lifetime record: 486-694)
• Last Season: 81-59, 2nd place
• Predicted Record: 71-69, 4th place

The Wildcats will face a tougher season in 1898 after their strong 1897 campaign. While players like Matt Kilroy, Jesse Tannehill, Jack Taylor, and Nap Lajoie are capable of carrying the team, a slight drop in overall performance is expected. Manager Malachi Beacham will need to find ways to keep the team competitive, though they may fall to the middle of the standings.

New York Saints

• Manager: Wayne Slagle (lifetime record: 1276-996)
• Last Season: 88-52, 1st place (won World Series)
• Predicted Record: 88-52, 1st place

The Saints enter the season as the reigning World Series champions and are once again poised for a dominant performance. With stars like Mike Griffin, Jim Fogarty, and Jack Powell, New York is expected to retain its top spot in the league. Manager Wayne Slagle’s expertise will continue to guide the Saints to success, and their team depth makes them favorites to win it all again.

Philadelphia Thunder

• Manager: Doc Kennedy (lifetime record: 0-0)
• Last Season: 72-68, 3rd place
• Predicted Record: 83-57, 2nd place

The Thunder are predicted to make significant strides in 1898, with an impressive turnaround in their performance. Players like Brownie Foreman, Charlie Dexter, and John Ward will be pivotal in pushing Philadelphia towards a second-place finish. The team’s new manager, Doc Kennedy, will look to harness their full potential and challenge for the top spot.

Pittsburgh Predators

• Manager: Norm Brooks (lifetime record: 662-704)
• Last Season: 63-77, 6th place
• Predicted Record: 64-76, 6th place

The Predators are not expected to make major improvements this season. Despite having key players like George Davis, Denny Lyons, and Fred Clarke, Pittsburgh is predicted to remain in the lower half of the standings. Rookie additions Wiley Piatt and Charlie Hickman could provide some hope, but a significant leap in performance seems unlikely for the Predators.

St. Louis Roughnecks

• Manager: Billy Arnold (lifetime record: 547-573)
• Last Season: 63-77, 7th place
• Predicted Record: 52-88, 8th place

The Roughnecks are projected to have a tough season in 1898, with a predicted drop to the bottom of the standings. With stars like Nixey Callahan and Monte Cross, they will need to rely on their experience and hope for a breakthrough from rookie Jimmy Sheckard. However, it’s expected to be a rebuilding year for St. Louis, and a low finish is anticipated.

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The Baseball Times
April 3, 1898

ROUGH START FOR ST. LOUIS ROUGHNECKS AND JACK CHESBRO



The St. Louis Roughnecks and their star pitcher Jack Chesbro faced a challenging opening to the season, with Chesbro sustaining an injury during the team’s 6-3 loss against the New York Saints.

Chesbro, making his first appearance of the year, pitched just 1.1 innings before being pulled from the game due to a sore shoulder. During his brief time on the mound, Chesbro allowed one hit and one run, leaving him with an ERA of 6.75 for the season.

The injury is expected to sideline Chesbro for the next two months, dealing a significant blow to the Roughnecks as they aim to turn their season around. Fans and teammates alike will be eagerly awaiting his recovery.

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The Baseball Times
April 4, 1898

GUS WEYHING THROWS NO-HITTER AGAINST WASHINGTON



Gus Weyhing dazzled on the mound in his season debut, pitching a no-hitter to lead his team to a dominant 7-0 victory over the Washington Americans at Washington Stadium.

Using a mix of precise pitch selection and pinpoint control, the 32-year-old starter kept the Americans off balance throughout the game. Weyhing struck out two batters and issued three walks during the historic performance.

"Nobody goes out to pitch a no-hitter," Weyhing said after the game. "We just go out and try to get a win. A 10-9 win is better than a 1-0 loss. The key today was I mixed my pitches well. I kept the Americans off balance and guessing the whole game."

Washington manager Jack Chapman acknowledged Weyhing’s dominant outing. "When a guy is throwing strikes the way he was and is locating well, it is going to be a long day for any club," Chapman remarked.

Weyhing’s stellar start to the season has set a high bar, leaving fans eager to see what he can accomplish next.

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The Baseball Times
April 8, 1898

JACKIE HAYES JOINS 2000-HIT CLUB IN THRILLING WIN



Jackie Hayes, the Louisville Captains’ veteran right fielder, reached a major career milestone in dramatic fashion during the team’s 11-10 victory over the Washington Americans. Hayes collected two hits in five at-bats to notch his 2000th career hit, becoming one of the select members of the Professional Baseball Association’s prestigious 2000-hit club.

The 37-year-old Hayes has built an impressive career, spanning 1918 games with a lifetime .275 batting average, .314 on-base percentage, 2000 hits, and 128 home runs.

The milestone win provided a double reason to celebrate for the Captains and their fans, as Hayes further cemented his place in baseball history.

GRIFFIN’S HIT STREAK ENDS AS SAINTS FALL TO HITMEN



Mike Griffin of the New York Saints saw his impressive 22-game hit streak come to an end in a disappointing 8-5 loss to the Brooklyn Hitmen. The Saints’ left fielder went hitless in three at-bats, capping a tough outing for both the player and the team.

"It was not a good day today," Griffin admitted. "We lost the game and the streak is over."
Griffin’s season has started slowly, with the left fielder batting .227, tallying no home runs, three RBIs, and four runs scored, alongside a .280 on-base percentage. Fans will be eager to see if Griffin can rebound and ignite the Saints’ offense in the coming games.

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The Baseball Times
April 9, 1898

FRED CARROLL EXTENDS HIT STREAK TO 20 GAMES



Fred Carroll continued his impressive hitting streak, going 2-for-5 in the Louisville Captains’ 7-4 victory over the Washington Americans at Washington Stadium. The 34-year-old catcher has now hit safely in 20 consecutive games, showcasing his consistency at the plate.

Carroll singled in the 1st and 3rd innings, while grounding out in his other three at-bats. This season, he has been a key offensive contributor for the Captains, boasting a .375 batting average with 9 hits, 4 RBIs, and 4 runs scored over 6 games.

The Captains will undoubtedly hope Carroll can maintain his hot streak as the season progresses.

JENNINGS OUT FOR SIX WEEKS AFTER FRACTURING THUMB



The Washington Americans suffered a significant blow as Hughie Jennings was injured in today’s 7-4 loss to the Louisville Captains. The infielder fractured his thumb after being hit by a pitch and is expected to be sidelined for six weeks.

Jennings had been off to a strong start this season, batting .320 with 6 runs scored and 3 RBIs in 6 games. His absence will leave a noticeable gap in the Americans’ lineup as they look to regroup following their recent struggles.

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The Baseball Times
April 10, 1898

ED WHITING ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT AFTER THIS SEASON



Veteran catcher Ed Whiting has officially announced that the 1898 season will be his last in professional baseball.

Whiting, who began his career with the New York Saints in 1882, has enjoyed a remarkable tenure in the league. Over his career, he has compiled a .277 batting average with 1,620 hits, 23 home runs, 745 runs scored, and 903 RBIs.

A key moment in Whiting’s career came in 1888, when he played a pivotal role in helping the Saints secure a World Series title. In 1891, Whiting was traded to the Boston Rebels, where he has remained ever since, becoming a mainstay in the team’s lineup.

As Whiting enters the final chapter of his career, he leaves behind a legacy as one of the game’s most reliable and respected catchers. Fans and teammates alike will be cherishing every remaining game with the veteran behind the plate.

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The Baseball Times
April 11, 1898

NIXEY CALLAHAN SIDELINED WITH ELBOW INJURY



The St. Louis Roughnecks’ difficult start to the season has taken another hit, as pitcher Nixey Callahan suffered a sprained elbow during today’s 14-9 loss to the Philadelphia Thunder. The injury will keep him out of action for two weeks.

Callahan’s season has begun with struggles on the mound, as the right-hander has started two games with a 0-2 record and a 6.23 ERA. His absence compounds the Roughnecks’ injury troubles early in the season, leaving the team searching for answers both on the mound and in the standings.

The Roughnecks will look to regroup and manage without Callahan as they navigate this challenging stretch.

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The Baseball Times
April 12, 1898

BILL HUTCHISON SIDELINED WITH ELBOW INFLAMMATION



The Columbus Bandits' injury woes deepened today as veteran pitcher Bill Hutchison exited their 6-1 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks with elbow inflammation. The 39-year-old is expected to miss two weeks as he recovers.

Hutchison’s season has been challenging so far, with a 0-2 record and a 7.47 ERA over two starts and one relief appearance. His absence adds to the Bandits’ struggles as they aim to stabilize their pitching staff.

LADY BALDWIN OUT THREE WEEKS WITH CALF STRAIN



Philadelphia Thunder pitcher Lady Baldwin is heading to the injury list yet again after suffering a calf strain during the team’s 6-2 loss to the St. Louis Roughnecks. The veteran left-hander will be sidelined for three weeks.

Baldwin, who has made two starts this season, holds a 1-1 record with an ERA of 2.93. Known for his resilience, Baldwin’s early-season setback will force the Thunder to make adjustments as they seek to maintain momentum in his absence.

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The Baseball Times
April 13, 1898

ALEX VOSS ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT AT SEASON’S END



Veteran reliever Alex Voss has confirmed that the 1898 season will be his last in professional baseball.

The 40-year-old pitcher has enjoyed a long and distinguished career, compiling a 101-124 record with a 3.86 ERA over 326 games. Voss has also recorded 10 saves and struck out 586 batters in 2,026 innings of work.

Drafted by the Cincinnati Wildcats in 1883, Voss debuted in 1884 but was traded to the Philadelphia Thunder early in his rookie season. He became a key contributor to the Thunder, helping them win the 1892 World Series. As he enters his final season, Voss’s leadership and experience will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.

GEORGE CUPPY DOMINATES IN 4-0 SHUTOUT



St. Louis Roughnecks pitcher George Cuppy delivered a masterful performance, shutting out the Louisville Captains 4-0 at Captains Ballpark.

Cuppy allowed just five hits while striking out one and issuing no walks. Using a mix of fastballs and changeups, he kept the Captains guessing throughout the game.

"I think every time we were looking for a fastball, he threw a changeup and every time we were looking for a changeup, he threw a fastball," said Louisville manager Dave Birdsall.

With three starts under his belt this season, Cuppy now has a 1-2 record and a solid 2.77 ERA.

FRED CARROLL’S HITTING STREAK ENDS AT 22 GAMES



Fred Carroll’s remarkable 22-game hitting streak came to an end as the St. Louis Roughnecks blanked the Louisville Captains 4-0. Carroll went hitless in four at-bats, bringing an impressive run to a close.

Reflecting on the streak, Carroll remarked, "It was special, but I think other people make a bigger deal out of it than I do, or the players do. It was what we're all supposed to do; go out and hit the ball and try to score runs. It was a cool deal, but it's over now. Let's try to start a new one."

Carroll remains a key figure for the Captains this season, batting .342 with 13 hits, 8 RBIs, and 6 runs scored over 9 games.

BALTIMORE’S TOM MCCREERY SIDELINED WITH BACK INJURY



The Baltimore Barons suffered a setback as star right fielder Tom McCreery strained his back during the team’s narrow 4-3 loss to the Boston Rebels. McCreery is expected to miss two weeks.

The 29-year-old has been a bright spot in Baltimore’s lineup this season, hitting .297 with 11 runs scored and 1 RBI over 9 games. His absence will leave a void in the Barons’ offense as they work to stay competitive in the standings.

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The Baseball Times
April 15, 1898

NOODLES HAHN SHINES IN 3-0 SHUTOUT OF BALTIMORE



Noodles Hahn delivered a stellar performance at Barons Park, pitching the Louisville Captains to a commanding 3-0 shutout victory over the Baltimore Barons.

The left-hander was in control throughout the game, allowing 9 hits while striking out 7 and issuing only 1 walk. Hahn’s pinpoint accuracy and ability to induce weak contact kept the Barons off the scoreboard.

"He threw strikes and he was always around the plate," said Baltimore manager Andy Leonard. "The ball was doing everything he wanted it to do. We hit some balls hard, but they were all right at the fielders."

Hahn’s dominant outing improves his record to 3-0 this season, with an impressive ERA of 1.24. The Captains will undoubtedly look to him as a key anchor in their rotation as the season progresses.

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The Baseball Times
April 16, 1898

COLUMBUS BANDITS HIT HARD BY INJURIES IN WIN OVER BOSTON



The Columbus Bandits emerged victorious in an 8-3 win over the Boston Rebels, but their day was marred by a string of injuries that left the medical staff working overtime.

Shortstop Kohly Miller was the first to go down, straining his back in the 5th inning. He is expected to miss three weeks of action. In the 6th inning, starting pitcher Al Atkinson followed suit, picking up a finger blister that will sideline him for at least 15 days.

But the injury woes didn’t end there. Relief pitcher Jake Boyd suffered a sprained elbow, which will keep him out for four weeks.

The loss of Atkinson is especially significant for the Bandits, as it adds him to a growing list of injured pitchers. With Bill Hutchison and long-term casualty Charlie Getzein also on the injured list, the Bandits are now without three starting pitchers. Atkinson had been solid this season with a 1-2 record and an impressive 1.90 ERA.

The Bandits will need to dig deep to maintain their momentum with these key players on the shelf.

PUD GALVIN OUT FOR 5 WEEKS WITH FOREARM STRAIN



Veteran pitcher Pud Galvin of the Milwaukee Bucks will miss the next five weeks after straining his forearm during today’s narrow 6-5 loss to the Washington Americans.

Galvin had been solid for the Bucks, posting a 1-1 record with a 1.89 ERA in his two starts this season. His injury is a blow to the Bucks’ pitching staff, leaving them to adjust without one of their most experienced hurlers. The team will look for other arms to step up in his absence as they continue their season.

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The Baseball Times
April 17, 1898

WILLIE SUDHOFF SHUTS OUT ROUGHNECKS IN 5-0 WIN



24-year-old pitcher Willie Sudhoff delivered a dominant performance at Bears Field, shutting out the St. Louis Roughnecks in a 5-0 victory.

Sudhoff was in complete control throughout the game, allowing just 5 hits while striking out 1 and walking 2. His ability to keep the Roughnecks off the scoreboard was a key factor in the Bears’ win.

"Hopefully there will be plenty more of these in the future for us," Sudhoff said after the game.

Though his season record stands at 1-2, Sudhoff’s strong outing today showcased his potential, with a respectable 3.92 ERA on the year. The Bears will be hoping this performance is a sign of more success to come from the young pitcher.

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The Baseball Times
April 20, 1898

BILL HAWKE DOMINATES IN 10-0 SHUTOUT OF COLUMBUS



Bill Hawke turned in a masterful performance on the mound, leading the Washington Americans to a dominant 10-0 shutout victory over the Columbus Bandits at Bandits Ballpark.

Hawke kept the Bandits off balance throughout the game, allowing just 8 hits while striking out 4 and walking 2. Despite the rain, Hawke remained unfazed and in control.

"It just felt right today," Hawke said after the win. "Even with the rain, it didn't throw me off my rhythm."

Although his record stands at 1-2 with a 5.74 ERA this season, today’s performance was a clear indication of Hawke’s ability to dominate when on top of his game.

COLUMBUS BANDITS ROTATION DECIMATED WITH INJURY TO JACK SHARROTT



The Columbus Bandits’ already injury-ravaged pitching staff took another hit today as pitcher Jack Sharrott was sidelined with a strained oblique. He is expected to miss two weeks of action.

Sharrott, who has struggled this season with an 0-3 record and a 6.45 ERA, joins a growing list of injured pitchers, leaving the Bandits’ rotation in disarray. The injury woes have fans wondering if the team is cursed, as they’ve seen multiple key players sidelined in the early part of the season.

With Sharrott out, the Bandits will need to lean on their remaining arms to stay competitive in a tough stretch of games.

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The Baseball Times
April 21, 1898

CHARLIE FERGUSON'S 5-HIT DAY NOT ENOUGH AS CLEVELAND FALLS TO MILWAUKEE



Despite a sensational 5-hit performance by right fielder Charlie Ferguson, the Cleveland Royals were defeated 7-4 by the Milwaukee Bucks at Bucks Ballpark.

Ferguson was on fire at the plate, collecting five hits in five at-bats. He singled in the 1st, 3rd, and 5th innings, added another single in the 7th, and capped off his remarkable day with a double in the 9th.

However, his offensive brilliance wasn’t enough to secure the win for Cleveland, as the Bucks cruised to victory.

Thus far this season, Ferguson is off to a blistering start, batting .443 with 1 home run, 2 RBIs, and 10 runs scored.

ROUGHNECKS’ FRANK FOREMAN OUT FOR MONTHS WITH ELBOW INJURY



The St. Louis Roughnecks’ injury woes continued today as starting pitcher Frank Foreman was added to the team's growing injury list. Foreman suffered an elbow strain during the Roughnecks’ 8-3 loss to the Brooklyn Hitmen and will be sidelined for 2-3 months.

Foreman had been solid this season, posting a 1-1 record with a 4.00 ERA before the injury. His extended absence leaves the Roughnecks' pitching staff in even more dire straits, adding to the growing list of hurlers already out for St. Louis.

The only bright spot for Roughneck fans is that pitcher Nixey Callahan is nearing a return from injury, providing a small measure of hope for the struggling team.

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The Baseball Times
April 23, 1898

EDWARD DANIELS SHINES WITH SHUTOUT VICTORY OVER BALTIMORE



Pitcher Edward Daniels delivered an outstanding performance today, leading the Columbus Bandits to a 5-0 shutout victory over the Baltimore Barons.

Daniels, making his first start of the year after being called up from the Manchester Corsairs, was in control from start to finish, holding the Barons to just 5 hits. He struck out 1 and walked 2 in a performance that saw him cruise through the Baltimore lineup with ease.

"He was very efficient and he hit his spots," said Bandits manager Henry Austin after the game. "He stayed down in the zone and stayed away from the middle of the plate."

Daniels’ strong outing will certainly earn him a longer look in the Bandits' rotation as he continues to impress in his first appearance of the season.

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The Baseball Times
April 24, 1898

GEORGE CUPPY SHUTS DOWN WASHINGTON AMERICANS IN 3-0 VICTORY



George Cuppy delivered a stellar performance for the St. Louis Sox today, tossing a complete-game 3-0 shutout over the Washington Americans.

The 29-year-old right-hander was in control throughout the game, allowing just 6 hits while striking out 3 and walking 1. Cuppy’s commanding performance helped the Sox secure the win as they blanked Washington for all nine innings.

This season, Cuppy has posted a 2-3 record, with 14 strikeouts in 43 innings and an impressive 2.30 ERA. His strong outing today should give St. Louis fans hope that he is rounding into top form as the season progresses.

WILLIE KEELER'S 5 HITS LEAD CARDINALS TO 5-4 WIN OVER BROOKLYN



Willie Keeler played the hero for the Chicago Cardinals today, collecting 5 hits in 6 at-bats to lead his team to a thrilling 5-4 victory over the Brooklyn Hitmen at Cardinals Ballpark.

Keeler was in the middle of everything for the Cardinals, grounding out in the 1st, and then following up with singles in the 2nd, 4th, and 6th innings. His key RBI single in the 10th inning proved to be the game-winner.

Keeler is off to a strong start this season, with a .352 batting average. While he has yet to hit a home run, his consistent hitting continues to be a vital part of the Cardinals' offense.