Notes from history

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SPORTING TIMES — April 8th, 1913
By Arthur H. Leland

SPORTING TIMES SETS ITS MARK: PENNANT RACES FORECAST AS NEW SEASON DAWNS

As is now customary with the opening of another championship season, the Sporting Times has cast its eye forward and attempted the difficult task of forecasting how the pennant races may unfold over the long summer ahead. As always, these figures are predictions only, yet they offer a revealing picture of how the coming campaign is expected to take shape.

American League Outlook

In the American League, the balance of opinion points strongly toward the Washington Senators as the club to beat. Predicted to finish with a commanding 97–57 record, Washington’s strength is seen primarily on the mound, where their staff is projected to allow just 473 runs with a league-best 2.29 ERA. The Senators’ rotation, led by Willie Mitchell, Reb Russell, and Smokey Joe Williams, is forecast to dominate opposing bats throughout the season.

Behind them, the Cleveland Naps and Philadelphia Athletics are expected to wage a tight battle for second, both clubs penciled in at 79–75. Cleveland’s hopes rest largely on the continued excellence of Tris Speaker, projected to lead all American League hitters with a .354 average, while Philadelphia’s balance of pitching and timely hitting keeps them firmly in the chase.

The middle of the table is crowded, with the Boston Red Sox and St. Louis Browns close behind, while the Detroit Tigers, New York Yankees, and Chicago White Sox are forecast to bring up the rear in what promises to be a competitive but uneven race.

Speaker, when asked about Cleveland’s prospects, remarked simply, “If we play the game the way we know how, the standings will take care of themselves.”

National League Forecast

The National League picture appears far less restrained. The Sporting Times projection gives the Brooklyn Superbas a commanding position atop the circuit, with a remarkable predicted record of 111–43. Their expected dominance is built on overwhelming offense—over 900 runs scored—and a deep pitching staff anchored by Grover Cleveland Alexander, John Donaldson, and Ed Reulbach.

Brooklyn’s lineup is forecast to be led by Joe Jackson, whose projected .389 batting average and 142 RBIs stand as the highest totals in either league. Jackson himself was modest in assessing such expectations, saying, “You just try to hit the ball hard and help the club. The rest is for the writers to figure out.”

Challenging Brooklyn from a distance are the Boston Braves, projected at 87–67, followed by the New York Giants, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Philadelphia Phillies. The Giants, though not favored for the flag, are expected to lean once more on the steady arm of Christy Mathewson, who is forecast for another heavy workload.

Mathewson, speaking quietly before departing the grounds, noted, “Predictions don’t win ballgames. You still have to take the ball every fourth day and earn it.”

A Season Ready to Be Written

These projections, bold though they may be, will soon give way to the realities of the diamond. Injuries, form, and fortune will have their say, as they always do. Yet as clubs take the field in earnest, the figures laid out here provide a compelling starting point for what promises to be another memorable year in base ball.

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SPORTING TIMES — April 12th, 1913
By George F. Winthrop

BRAVES STRIKE TRUE AT THE POLO GROUNDS AS JOSS CLAIMS HISTORIC 200TH VICTORY

The Boston Braves have opened their campaign in steady fashion, and this afternoon at the Polo Grounds they delivered their strongest statement yet, defeating the New York Giants by a decisive 10–4 count. The victory lifts Boston to 2–1 in this early stage of the season and provided a milestone moment for one of the game’s most respected hurlers.

Taking the ball for his first appearance of the year, Addie Joss turned in a performance worthy of the occasion, securing the 200th win of his distinguished career. The contest was marked by stretches of quiet play, but the Braves broke it wide open with a thunderous seven-run outburst in the seventh inning, which gave Joss all the support he required.

Joss went the full nine innings, allowing six hits and three earned runs, keeping the Giants in check while his mates seized control late. The triumph was especially fitting, coming at the home of the Giants, the very club with which Joss began his professional journey.

With the win, Joss’s career ledger now stands at 200–169, accompanied by a sterling 2.55 earned run average. His career began in 192 with the New York Giants, before a trade carried him to Boston in 1910, making this milestone victory on familiar ground all the more poignant.

After the game, Joss spoke quietly of the achievement, saying, “I’ve been fortunate to pitch for good clubs and good men. Wins like this belong to the whole team, not just the fellow on the mound.”

Braves manager Kyle Jackson was equally reflective, noting, “Addie showed today exactly why he’s lasted so long in this league. When the club needed steadiness, he gave it to us, and that seventh inning took care of the rest.”

With their veteran ace already writing another chapter in his career, the Braves depart New York encouraged, carrying both momentum in the standings and a landmark victory to savor as the season unfolds.

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SPORTING TIMES — April 17th, 1913
By Charles H. Wentworth

LAJOIE REACHES 1,500 RBIs AS ATHLETICS FALL TO RED SOX

Veteran second baseman Nap Lajoie added yet another notable figure to his remarkable ledger this afternoon, though the achievement came on a disappointing day for the Philadelphia Athletics, who were beaten 5–2 at home by the Boston Red Sox. The defeat leaves the Athletics with a 3–4 mark in the young season.

Lajoie was held hitless, going 0-for-4, yet still found a way to drive in a run, recording the 1,500th RBI of his illustrious career. That run came in the opening frame, when Lajoie reached base on an error and Max Carey crossed the plate to give Philadelphia an early 1–0 advantage. The lead, however, proved fleeting, as the Red Sox rallied in the later innings to turn the contest in their favor.

Despite the quiet day at the bat, Lajoie has begun the campaign in fine fashion and now owns a .419 batting average through the first seven games. Over the course of his long career, the veteran has compiled a .335 average, and the Athletics have enjoyed the full measure of his talents since 1901.

After the game, Lajoie brushed aside the personal milestone, saying, “I’d trade that number in a moment for a victory. Records are fine, but it’s the score at the end of the day that matters most.”

Athletics manager D. J. Hiatt echoed the sentiment, remarking, “Nap has given this club everything for years. Today wasn’t his day at the plate, but even then he found a way to contribute. We simply didn’t finish the job behind him.”

Thus, a historic mark was reached under somber circumstances, as Philadelphia looks ahead to steadier fortunes in the games to come.

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SPORTING TIMES — April 19th, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley

MITCHELL SPINS NO-HITTER AS SENATORS BLANK YANKEES

The Washington Senators continued their splendid opening to the campaign this afternoon, leaning heavily upon the magnificent right arm of Willie Mitchell to secure a 2–0 victory over the New York Yankees on hostile ground. The triumph lifts Washington to an imposing 8–1 record in the season’s opening days.

The 23-year-old Mitchell delivered a performance of the highest order, pitching a complete-game no-hitter across nine innings. He allowed but one walk and one hit batsman, the only blemishes on an otherwise flawless afternoon, while striking out eight Yankees in a display of cool command and varied craft.

Mitchell kept the New York batsmen perpetually off balance, mixing his fastball, curveball, and change-up with fine judgment. The Yankees were left grasping throughout, unable to solve the puzzle he set before them.

Washington’s attack provided just enough support, pushing across two runs, all that was required behind such masterful pitching to carry the game safely home.

With the victory, Mitchell’s record for the young season improves to 3–0, and his earned run average now stands at a remarkable 0.90.

After the game, the young hurler spoke modestly of his feat, saying, “I had good control today and trusted my pitches. The men behind me played clean ball, and that makes a day like this possible.”

Senators manager Chase Stone was unstinting in his praise, remarking, “Mitchell had everything working and never let them get comfortable. Performances like that are the backbone of a winning club.”

Thus, behind one of the finest pitching exhibitions seen this spring, Washington’s strong start marches firmly onward.

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SPORTING TIMES — April 19th, 1913
By Arthur H. Leland

LEACH REACHES 1,000 RUNS AS PIRATES FALL IN CLOSE CONTEST

A notable personal milestone was reached at Forbes Field today by Tommy Leach, the veteran center fielder of the Pittsburgh Pirates, though it came amid disappointment as Pittsburgh dropped a tight 2–1 decision to the Cincinnati Reds. The defeat leaves the Pirates with a 6–3 record in the young campaign.

Leach, now 35 years of age, crossed the plate for the 1,000th run of his distinguished career, marking another chapter in a long and steady tenure in the National League. The landmark run came in the third inning, when Leach scored to knot the contest at 1–1, briefly restoring parity and hope for the home side.

On the day, Leach was one of Pittsburgh’s brightest lights, going 2-for-4 at the plate. Despite his efforts, the Pirates were unable to push across another tally, and the Reds ultimately carried the narrow margin to the finish.

Leach has opened the season in blazing fashion, carrying a .441 batting average, well above his career mark of .263. He first broke into professional baseball in 1898 and has worn Pittsburgh colors since 1900, becoming one of the club’s most familiar and reliable figures.

After the game, Leach reflected quietly on the achievement, saying, “It’s something I’m proud of, but I’d trade that run for a victory today. The club comes first.”

Pirates manager Jason Leach praised the veteran’s continued production, remarking, “Tommy has been a steady hand for this club for many years, and what he’s doing at his age speaks for itself. We’re fortunate to have him.”

Though the result went against Pittsburgh, the afternoon still carried significance, as one of the game’s seasoned men added another lasting mark to his record.

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SPORTING TIMES — April 30th, 1913
By George F. Winthrop

KELLEY TURNS BACK THE YEARS WITH 1,500TH RUN IN BRAVES ROUT

Once again Joe Kelley has offered fresh proof that advancing years need not dull a ballplayer’s edge. At 41 years of age, the veteran outfielder reached a remarkable milestone this afternoon, scoring the 1,500th run of his long career during the Boston Braves’ emphatic 18–8 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies. The triumph moves Boston to 9–10 on the young season.

In a contest where runs flowed freely from the opening frames onward, it was fitting that Kelley played a central role. He turned in a powerful showing at the plate, going 4-for-6, crossing the plate twice and driving in one run. Amid the steady parade of Braves runners, Kelley’s historic tally came as part of the general onslaught, another entry in a career filled with such moments.

Kelley has shown no signs of slowing in 1913, carrying a .328 batting average and already accounting for 11 runs scored. Across a career that began in 1891, and which has seen him in a Braves uniform since 1902, he has compiled a .309 lifetime average, numbers that speak to both longevity and consistent excellence.

After the game, Kelley brushed aside personal praise, saying, “I’ve been fortunate to play this game a long time, and days like this make it all worthwhile. When the club scores runs like that, it’s easy to enjoy yourself.”

Braves manager Kyle Jackson was equally appreciative of his elder statesman, remarking, “Joe’s been doing this for more years than most men can count, and he still sets an example every day. That mark is a credit to his ability and his love for the game.”

As the season moves forward, Kelley continues to remind friend and foe alike that experience, properly applied, remains one of baseball’s greatest assets.

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SPORTING TIMES — May 1st, 1913
By Charles H. Wentworth

EARLY SEASON FORM BEGINS TO EMERGE AS APRIL DRAWS TO A CLOSE

Though the campaign is yet in its infancy, the close of April has begun to give shape to the pennant races in both leagues, with several clubs already staking their claims while others find themselves searching for footing.

In the American League, the Washington Senators have edged into the lead, holding a slim half-game advantage over the St. Louis Browns as the calendar turns. The Chicago White Sox sit three games off the pace, with the Philadelphia Athletics a further game behind. At the foot of the table, the Cleveland Naps and the New York Yankees have both stumbled out of the gate, each managing only six victories thus far.

The National League presents an equally close affair. The Brooklyn Superbas have narrowly gained the upper hand, leading the defending World Series champions, the New York Giants, by half a game. Close behind are the Pittsburgh Pirates, just one game back, while the St. Louis Cardinals trail by two. At the bottom, the Philadelphia Phillies have endured a miserable opening month, winning only four games and already finding themselves eight games adrift of the leaders.

APRIL HONOURS

Individual excellence has already shone through the early-season contests.

In the American League, Jake Daubert of the Detroit Tigers has set the standard with the bat, posting a remarkable .494 average, along with nine runs batted in and twelve runs scored. On the mound, Willie Mitchell of the Washington Senators has been untouchable, fashioning a 5–0 record and a microscopic 0.75 earned run average, while fellow Senator Reb Russell has captured Rookie of the Month honours at 3–0 with a 0.51 ERA.

Over in the National League, Ed Konetchy of the Brooklyn Superbas has led the hitters with a .343 mark, two home runs, 13 RBIs, and 20 runs scored. Hugh Bedient of the New York Giants has been the month’s standout pitcher at 4–0 with a 2.32 ERA, while Gene Packard of the Cincinnati Reds claims rookie honours after opening his career 3–0 with a 3.90 ERA.

With many months of baseball still to be played, fortunes may yet swing sharply, but April has offered the first clear indications of who may contend—and who must quickly mend their ways.

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SPORTING TIMES — May 23rd, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley

SUPERBAS PREVAIL OVER PIRATES, BUT LOSE COLLINS TO GRAVE INJURY

The Brooklyn Superbas pressed onward in their pursuit of the National League pennant this afternoon, securing a 4–1 victory at home over the Pittsburgh Pirates to raise their record to 26 wins against 12 defeats. Yet the triumph was tempered by unfortunate news, for Brooklyn was forced to carry on without the services of its star second baseman, Eddie Collins, who was injured in the opening inning.

Collins, the 26-year-old keystone man, reached safely on a single in the bottom of the first and attempted to stretch the hit into a double. As he arrived at second base he suddenly pulled up, managing to beat the throw but immediately summoning the trainers. After a brief examination on the field, Collins was removed from the contest.

Before departing, Collins had gone 1 for 1, and his hit was later converted into a run by pinch runner Eddie Grant.

For the season, Collins has been a central figure in Brooklyn’s success, batting .327, with 14 runs batted in and 35 runs scored.

Following the game, the outlook grew more somber. Collins was diagnosed with a strained hip, an injury expected to sideline him for four months, leaving his possible return before the close of the season very much in doubt.

“I felt it catch the moment I tried to push for second,” Collins said quietly afterward. “I hated to leave the club that way, but there was no sense in risking worse harm.”

Manager Ned Hanlon spoke with concern for his fallen star. “Eddie has been one of the pillars of this club,” Hanlon remarked. “We’ll have to carry on without him for a spell, but our chief hope is that he comes back sound, whether that’s late this season or beyond.”

Brooklyn moves forward in the standings, but the loss of Collins casts a long shadow over what had been another strong day for the Superbas.

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SPORTING TIMES — June 1st, 1913
By Arthur H. Leland

PENNANT RACES BEGIN TO TAKE SHAPE AS MAY CLOSES

With the month of May now behind us and the campaign passing from spring into the early days of summer, clearer lines are beginning to form in both major leagues, as leading clubs separate themselves from the pack.

In the American League, the Washington Senators have set the pace, opening a commanding five-game margin over their nearest pursuers, the Philadelphia Athletics and the St. Louis Browns. At the opposite end of the table, the Cleveland Naps remain anchored to last place and now find themselves thirteen and a half games adrift.

The National League picture shows a similar trend toward definition. The Brooklyn Superbas have forged a four-game lead atop the standings, with the St. Louis Cardinals their closest challengers. The Pittsburgh Pirates and New York Giants trail just a half-game further back, each four and a half games behind the leaders. At the foot of the league stand the Chicago Cubs, once again last and carrying the poorest record in all of baseball at 15 wins and 31 losses.

Individual performances during May have not gone unnoticed. In the American League, Tris Speaker of the Cleveland Naps earned top batting honors with a .343 average, along with 16 runs batted in and 22 runs scored. The pitching distinction went to Fred Olmstead of the Detroit Tigers, who fashioned a 6–2 record and a fine 1.84 earned run average, while Earl Yingling of the Boston Red Sox took rookie honors with a 4–4 mark and a 2.37 ERA.

In the National League, Joe Jackson of the Brooklyn Superbas stood tallest with the bat, compiling a remarkable .486 average, two home runs, 33 RBIs, and 20 runs scored. The mound honors belonged to Hooks Wiltse of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who posted a 6–1 record and a 1.60 ERA, while Jim Viox of the Chicago Cubs claimed rookie recognition by batting .370, with 7 RBIs and 17 runs scored.

As June begins, the races are far from settled, but the early shape of the season has now clearly emerged.

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SPORTING TIMES — June 9th, 1913
By George F. Winthrop

BENDER REACHES 200-WIN MARK AS WHITE SOX TOP YANKEES

The season has offered its share of uneven fortunes for both the Chicago White Sox and their veteran pitcher Charles Bender, but this afternoon in New York provided a moment firmly in the credit column. Behind a powerful offensive display, the White Sox defeated the New York Yankees, 12–6, and in doing so carried Bender to the 200th victory of his distinguished career. The triumph leaves Chicago with a record of 26–30 on the season.

Bender did not have his sharpest command, yet he bore down long enough to claim the historic win. Over eight and two-thirds innings, he surrendered six runs on sixteen hits, striking out five along the way. Though the Yankees found the ball with regularity, Chicago’s bats supplied ample support, allowing Bender to weather his difficulties and finish within a whisker of a complete game.

For the season, Bender now stands at 8 wins and 9 defeats, with an earned run average of 3.07. The larger measure of the day, however, rests in his career totals. Since beginning his major league service with the White Sox in 1903, Bender has compiled a record of 200 victories against 146 losses, paired with a sterling lifetime ERA of 2.32.

After the game, the veteran pitcher spoke quietly of the milestone.

“It is a fine thing to reach a number like that,” Bender said, “but I would trade any personal mark for steadier ball from our club. Today the fellows gave me all the runs I needed, and I was glad to finish it for them.”

White Sox manager Clark Griffith was quick to place the achievement in proper context.

“Two hundred wins speaks for itself,” Griffith remarked. “Bender has been doing this kind of work for a long time, and even on days when he has to battle himself, he knows how to win a ballgame.”

For Chicago, the hope now is that this notable afternoon may serve as a turning point, both for their season and for a pitcher whose name is already firmly written into the game’s record books.

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SPORTING TIMES — June 10th, 1913
By Charles H. Wentworth

CUBS STRETCH STREAK TO TEN WITH STRONG SHOWING AGAINST GIANTS

The Chicago Cubs, whose season began in discouraging fashion, continue to find renewed life as the calendar turns from May into June. This afternoon at home they captured their tenth consecutive victory, defeating the New York Giants, 7–2, and though their overall record remains a modest 23–31, the present run has given the Chicago faithful ample cause for optimism.

The victory was built upon a commanding performance from Lefty Tyler, who carried the contest from start to finish. Tyler scattered eight hits across the afternoon, allowed just one earned run, and struck out four, keeping the Giants in check throughout and never relinquishing control of the game.

Support for the left-hander came steadily from the Cubs’ bats. John Titus enjoyed a productive day, going 3 for 4 and crossing the plate twice, providing both spark and pressure at the top of the attack. Harry Wolter likewise made his presence felt, collecting two hits in four trips, scoring one run, and driving in two others to help Chicago build a comfortable margin.

Afterward, Tyler credited the club’s recent form.

“We’ve been playing sharper ball these past weeks,” he said. “When the men put runs on the board like that, it makes a pitcher’s work a good deal easier.”

Cubs manager Zack Brown praised both the effort and its meaning for the club.

“This streak has lifted everyone,” Brown remarked. “We’ve still ground to make up, but wins like today’s show what this team is capable of when it plays together.”

For a club that has endured a trying opening to the campaign, the Cubs’ sudden surge has altered the tone of the season, and for the moment at least, Chicago baseball is again something to be enjoyed.

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SPORTING TIMES — June 12th, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley

SENATORS RUN STREAK TO TEN AS PENNANT DRIVE GAINS STEAM

The Washington Senators continue to make plain their singular ambition for the 1913 campaign, and that ambition is the American League pennant. This afternoon at home they secured their tenth straight victory, edging the Chicago White Sox, 4–3, and in doing so strengthened their commanding position atop the standings. The triumph lifts Washington to an imposing 40–16 record.

The Senators struck quickly, surging to a 4–0 lead in the early going, a margin that proved just sufficient. From there the contest became a stern test of nerve, as the Chicago bats found their voice and pressed hard through the latter innings.

On the mound, Reb Russell shouldered the burden from start to finish. The left-hander went the distance, yielding nine hits and three runs, yet never allowing the game to slip away. Though Washington’s offense fell silent after its opening outburst, Russell was ably supported by steady defensive work that preserved the narrow advantage.

After the final out, Russell spoke of the collective effort.

“We got the runs early and everyone knew what had to be done after that,” he said. “It wasn’t easy, but the club stood firm behind me.”

Manager Chase Stone was quick to commend both pitcher and men.

“That’s the sort of ball that wins pennants,” Stone observed. “We struck first, fought through the tough innings, and refused to give ground.”

With ten victories now strung together and their lead continuing to grow, the Senators march on, looking every inch a club determined to see its purpose through to season’s end.

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SPORTING TIMES — June 13th, 1913
By Arthur H. Leland

SENATORS’ TEN-GAME RUN HALTED BY SILENT BATS

The Washington Senators’ stirring ten-game winning streak came to an abrupt close this afternoon, as they were shut out 5–0 at home by the Chicago White Sox. The defeat drops Washington to 40–17 on the season and brought to an end a run that had carried them comfortably atop the American League.

For the second day in succession the Senators’ attack failed to stir. The home club managed just five hits across the nine innings and could find no answer for Chicago’s pitching, never once pushing a runner across the plate.

Despite the scoreline, Willie Mitchell labored gamely on the mound. He worked eight innings, surrendering only five hits, but his command deserted him at costly moments. Six bases on balls, coupled with a pair of defensive errors, proved sufficient for the White Sox to plate the five runs that decided the contest.

Mitchell was frank in his assessment afterward.

“I felt strong enough, but I put too many men on and they made us pay,” he said. “When you give chances like that, good clubs will take them.”

Manager Chase Stone struck a measured tone despite the setback.

“No winning streak lasts forever,” Stone remarked. “We didn’t hit, we didn’t help our pitcher, and Chicago took advantage. We’ll turn the page and be ready tomorrow.”

Though the streak is ended, the Senators remain firmly placed near the summit, and the measure of this club will be seen in how swiftly it answers this sudden reverse.

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SPORTING TIMES — June 13th, 1913
By George F. Winthrop

CUBS’ TWELVE-GAME SURGE ENDS IN TIGHT LOSS TO SUPERBAS

For the Chicago Cubs and their long-suffering supporters, the exhilarating run was bound to end at some point, and this afternoon it did so by the narrowest of margins. The Cubs saw their twelve-game winning streak snapped with a 2–1 defeat at home to the Brooklyn Superbas, leaving the club with a record of 25–32 on the season.

The contest was dominated by pitching from the first inning to the last, and while Claude Hendrix battled gamely for Chicago, he fell just short of what was required. Hendrix went the full distance, yielding six hits and three bases on balls, and those few openings proved enough for Brooklyn to scratch out the runs that decided the affair.

Chicago’s offense, so lively during the recent streak, was largely held in check. The Cubs managed only four hits, yet opportunity was not entirely absent, as the Brooklyn pitchers also issued six walks. Those chances, however, went wanting, and the single tally proved insufficient to extend the run.

Hendrix spoke with quiet disappointment after the game.

“It was one of those days where a pitch or two makes all the difference,” he said. “I tried to keep them in hand, but they found just enough.”

Manager Zack Brown reflected on the end of the streak with perspective.

“The boys gave everything they had during this run,” Brown remarked. “We lost a close ball game today, nothing more. We’ll take the good that came from it and move on.”

Though the streak has ended, the Cubs showed again that, even in defeat, they are capable of standing toe to toe with the league’s best.

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SPORTING TIMES — June 19th, 1913
By Charles H. Wentworth

JONES REACHES 2,500 HITS AS BRAVES FALL AT PITTSBURGH

Few men now active in the game have travelled a longer road than Fielder Jones, and on this afternoon the veteran reached a milestone he himself once thought might remain beyond his grasp. Despite the achievement, the day ended in disappointment for the Boston Braves, who were defeated 5–1 by the Pittsburgh Pirates on the road, dropping Boston to 26–38 on the season.

The 41-year-old Jones recorded the 2,500th hit of his distinguished career, turning in a strong personal showing in an otherwise quiet afternoon for the Braves’ bats. Jones went 2 for 3, crossed the plate once, and sparked Boston’s lone rally in the third inning, giving his club the start it sought.

That spark, however, failed to spread. The remainder of the Boston attack could not build upon Jones’s effort, and Pittsburgh steadily pulled away to secure the victory. The day’s work left Jones with a .261 batting average for the season.

Jones’s career mark now stands at .287, a figure built patiently and steadily since he first entered professional play in 1896.

Reflecting on the moment, Jones spoke with the calm humility of a man long acquainted with the game.

“I’ve been fortunate to stay in uniform this long,” he said. “To reach a number like that means more to me than I can rightly say.”

Braves manager Kyle Jackson was quick to praise his veteran.

“Fielder’s been a model professional for a long time,” Jackson remarked. “Days like this remind everyone in the park what kind of ballplayer he’s been.”

Though the loss weighed heavily on the Braves, the afternoon will be remembered for the enduring mark left by one of the game’s seasoned craftsmen.

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SPORTING TIMES — June 22nd, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley

WAGNER MARKS 1,500TH RUN IN DEFEAT AT CINCINNATI

It was an afternoon of divided sentiment for the Pittsburgh Pirates, and particularly for their veteran short stop Honus Wagner, as personal distinction arrived hand in hand with team disappointment. Pittsburgh was edged 2–1 on the road by the Cincinnati Reds, a loss that leaves the Pirates with a record of 38–28 on the season.

Wagner, now 39 years of age, reached the notable figure of 1,500 runs scored in his illustrious career, doing so while attempting to drag his club back into the contest. Trailing 1–0 in the sixth inning, Wagner reached safely on a hit and helped ignite a rally that saw the Pirates load the bases. Several promising chances slipped away at critical moments, but relief finally came when Jim Delahanty delivered a single that brought Wagner home to even the score at 1–1.

The respite proved brief, as Cincinnati struck later to reclaim the advantage and ultimately the game.

On the day Wagner went 1 for 4, scoring the Pirates’ lone run. His batting average for the season now stands at .291. Over a career that has seen him wear Pittsburgh colors since 1900, Wagner owns a remarkable .326 lifetime average.

After the game Wagner reflected quietly on the milestone.

“I’d gladly trade the mark for a victory today,” he said. “Runs only count the most when they help the club.”

Pirates manager Jason Leach echoed the sentiment.

“Honus has carried this team for a long time,” Leach remarked. “It’s fitting he reached such a figure, even if the result didn’t go our way.”

Though the defeat stung, the day will stand as another chapter in the enduring legacy of one of the game’s greatest figures.

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SPORTING TIMES — July 1st, 1913
By Arthur H. Leland

PENNANT PICTURE SHARPENS AS SUMMER TAKES HOLD

With the campaign now well into its stride and the heat of summer upon the game, the outlines of both pennant races are beginning to show with greater clarity across the two leagues.

In the American League, the Washington Senators continue to set the pace, having widened their advantage to a six-game lead at the top of the table. Chasing them in second place are the Philadelphia Athletics, while the Detroit Tigers sit third, seven and a half games behind the leaders. At the foot of the standings, the Cleveland Naps and New York Yankees share 29 victories, though Cleveland occupy last place by virtue of having suffered 43 defeats to New York’s 41.

The National League has likewise seen separation at the summit, where the Brooklyn Superbas now enjoy a six-game cushion over the Pittsburgh Pirates. The St. Louis Cardinals follow in third, facing a nine and a half game gap. At the lower end, the Chicago Cubs remain in last position, though their spirited 12-game winning streak earlier in the month has ensured they are no longer cut adrift from the remainder of the field.

The close of June also brings recognition for the month’s outstanding performers.

In the American League, Grant Johnson of the Chicago White Sox claims top batting honours with a .397 average, two home runs, 26 runs batted in, and 17 runs scored. On the mound, Jeff Tesreau of the Philadelphia Athletics led all pitchers with a 5–1 record and a 1.39 earned run average, while Earl Yingling of the Boston Red Sox earns rookie distinction at 5–2 with a 1.56 ERA.

The National League awards see Joe Jackson of the Brooklyn Superbas named top batter after posting a remarkable .464 average, alongside one home run, 18 RBIs, and 24 runs scored. Hooks Wiltse of the Pittsburgh Pirates dominates pitching honours with a perfect 6–0 record and a 1.26 ERA, while Jim Viox of the Chicago Cubs takes rookie honours, batting .340 with 13 RBIs and 20 runs scored.

As July opens, the races remain far from settled, but the leaders have made their intentions unmistakably clear.

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SPORTING TIMES — July 1st, 1913
By George F. Winthrop

ANDERSON’S 2,000TH HIT SEALS EXTRA-INNING TRIUMPH FOR BROWNS

The St. Louis Browns have endured a season of uneven fortunes, but today provided one of its brighter chapters as they edged the Cleveland Naps by a score of 1–0, pushing their record to 37–38. The victory was decided in dramatic fashion and carried special significance for veteran left fielder John Anderson, who marked a notable personal milestone in the process.

With the contest deadlocked into the bottom of the tenth inning, Anderson was summoned from the bench to bat. Making the most of his lone appearance, he struck a clean single into left-center field, a blow that allowed the winning run to cross the plate and brought the game to an immediate close. The hit was Anderson’s 2,000th of his career, and on the day he finished 1-for-1.

For Anderson, whose playing opportunities have grown more limited, the achievement was another reminder of his enduring value. He has appeared 51 times this season as a pinch hitter or pinch runner and carries a .250 average in that role. Over the past four years, he has steadily transitioned from everyday duty into life as a reserve, taking his chances as they come.

Across a career that began in 1894, Anderson has compiled a .292 lifetime batting average and has worn the colors of the St. Louis Browns since 1901, giving the club more than a decade of steady service.

After the game, Anderson spoke quietly of the moment, saying, “I’ve learned to stay ready, even if the chances are fewer. When your name is called, all you can do is try to make it count.”

Browns manager Jimmy McAleer was quick to praise the veteran’s contribution, remarking, “John may not be in the lineup every day anymore, but he’s as dependable as they come. That was a big hit, and it couldn’t have come at a better time.”

On a day when runs were scarce, it was fitting that experience and patience proved decisive, giving the Browns a hard-earned victory and their veteran a milestone he will long remember.

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SPORTING TIMES — July 3rd, 1913
By Charles H. Wentworth

WAGNER POWERS PIRATES THROUGH BANNER TWO-DAY RUN

The Pittsburgh Pirates have enjoyed a most profitable pair of days, strengthening their position in the National League through back-to-back victories, and at the heart of it all has stood their veteran shortstop, Honus Wagner. Wins over the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals have lifted the Pirates to a record of 45–32, and Wagner’s bat was central to both triumphs.

On July 2nd, Pittsburgh overwhelmed the Cubs 13–4 on the road, with Wagner delivering a commanding performance at the plate. He went 3-for-6, drove in seven runs, and crossed the plate twice, supplying much of the force behind the lopsided score. The following day at home, the Pirates edged the Cardinals 2–1, and Wagner again made his presence felt, finishing 1-for-3 with a run scored.

Across the two contests, Wagner reached two remarkable personal milestones, collecting both his 1,500th run batted in and his 3,000th career hit. Each game also saw him drive the ball over the fence, a testament to the form he has rediscovered after a brief lull earlier in the season. The recent surge has pushed his batting average back up to .295 for the year.

For his long and distinguished career, Wagner now owns a .326 lifetime average, a figure that speaks to both his consistency and his longevity at the highest level of the game.

After the latest victory, Wagner was modest in reflecting on his achievements, saying, “The numbers come along if you keep playing the game the right way. What matters most is that we’re winning ball games.”

Pirates manager Jason Leach was more forthcoming in his praise, noting, “Honus has carried us these past two days. When he’s swinging the bat like this, he lifts the whole club, and those wins are proof of it.”

With their captain leading by example, the Pirates have every reason to feel encouraged as the season presses on.

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SPORTING TIMES — July 3rd, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley

WHITE SOX FALL IN TEN AND LOSE JOHNSON IN HARD COLLISION

The Chicago White Sox were again left to ponder their place as a middling club after a bitter 9–8 defeat in ten innings on the road to the St. Louis Browns, a loss that leaves them square at 39–39 for the season. More troubling than the mark in the ledger, however, was the loss of veteran second baseman Grant Johnson, who was injured in a violent collision in the final inning.

The decisive moment came in the tenth, when Johnson stood his ground at second base as Jack Dunn and the ball arrived simultaneously. All three met at the bag at the same instant, and the resulting crash brought a hush over the grounds. Johnson managed to apply the tag, but remained down on the field afterward. When he rose, he appeared badly shaken, and was quickly escorted from the field by the medical staff.

Before his unfortunate exit, Johnson had been a steady presence at the plate, finishing the day 3-for-6 with a run scored. His strong season continues to be reflected in a robust .367 batting average.

The news following the game cast a long shadow over the White Sox clubhouse. Johnson was diagnosed with concussions with complications and has been ruled out for the foreseeable future. Club medics fear that he may miss the remainder of the season should their suspicions of post-concussion syndrome be confirmed. For the 40-year-old second baseman, there are now serious questions as to whether this injury could mark the end of his playing days.

Speaking quietly after the game, Johnson said, “I made the play, but I knew right away something wasn’t right. I’ll listen to the doctors and take it one day at a time.”

White Sox manager Clark Griffith expressed concern for his veteran infielder, adding, “Grant has been a rock for us all season. Wins and losses don’t matter much when you see a man go down like that. Our thoughts are with him, first and foremost.”

As the White Sox regroup after a draining loss, their immediate concern will be the health of one of their most reliable and respected players.