Notes from history

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SPORTING TIMES — July 5th, 1913
By Arthur H. Leland

KELLEY REACHES 2,500 HITS AS BRAVES WIN IN PHILADELPHIA

The Boston Braves earned a solid 6–1 victory on the road against the Philadelphia Phillies today, a result that lifted their season record to 36–42. The win carried added significance for veteran left fielder Joe Kelley, who marked the afternoon by collecting the 2,500th hit of his distinguished career.

Kelley went 1-for-5 on the day and drove in two runs, his milestone hit coming in the top of the third inning. The timely stroke helped the Braves push ahead to a 3–1 lead, setting the tone for the remainder of the contest.

Though now well into his veteran years, Kelley continues to be a steady contributor. He is batting .295 on the season and remains an example to the younger men in the Boston lineup through his sound, thoughtful play.

Over the course of a career that began in 1891, Kelley has compiled a lifetime batting average of .308. He has worn a Braves uniform since 1902, and today’s achievement further cements his place among the game’s enduring figures.

Reflecting on the milestone, Kelley said, “I’ve been fortunate to play this game a long time, and it’s pleasing when a hit can help the club as well as mark a number.”

Braves manager Kyle Jackson was quick to praise his veteran, remarking, “Joe’s hit today came at just the right moment. He may not say much, but he shows our younger fellows every day how this game ought to be played.”

On a summer afternoon in Philadelphia, the Braves secured both a needed victory and a memorable chapter in a long and productive baseball life.

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SPORTING TIMES — July 7th, 1913
By George F. Winthrop

PLANK REACHES 2,000 STRIKEOUTS AS REDS EDGE PIRATES

The Cincinnati Reds, whose season has not matched the promise of recent years, found welcome encouragement this afternoon with a 3–2 victory on the road against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The win lifted Cincinnati’s record to 39–46 and was marked by a notable personal achievement for veteran pitcher Eddie Plank.

Plank was steady and dependable throughout the contest, working eight and a third innings and allowing six hits and two runs. His work on the mound kept the Pirates in check long enough for the Reds to secure the narrow decision. Along the way, Plank recorded six strikeouts, one of which proved historic as it became the 2,000th strikeout of his career. His effort lowered his season earned run average to 2.99.

The milestone adds to an already imposing résumé. Over a career that began in 1901, Plank has compiled a record of 277 victories against 187 defeats, an ERA of 2.68, and now an even 2,000 strikeouts. He has been a member of the Reds since 1907, anchoring their pitching staff through many seasons.

Speaking after the game, Plank said, “I was more concerned with getting the win than any figure, but it’s something a man can look back on with satisfaction.”

Reds manager Patrick Pinnow praised his veteran hurler, remarking, “Eddie gave us exactly what we needed today. That sort of performance, and a mark like 2,000 strikeouts, tells its own story.”

On a difficult road campaign, the Reds departed Pittsburgh with both a hard-earned victory and another chapter written in the long and productive career of Eddie Plank.

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SPORTING TIMES — July 9th, 1913
By Charles H. Wentworth

JACKSON’S 60-GAME HITTING STREAK ENDS AS SUPERBAS ROLL ON

For Joe Jackson of the Brooklyn Superbas, today marked the end of a remarkable chapter, even as his club continued its steady march toward a National League pennant. The 26-year-old outfielder was held hitless, bringing to a close a 60-game hitting streak, though Brooklyn suffered no harm on the scoreboard in a 9–3 victory over the Cincinnati Reds at home. The win lifted the Superbas to 50–29 on the season.

Jackson’s streak began on April 30th and carried uninterrupted through the entirety of May and June, finally ending today after 61 games without being shut out, the last of which yielded no hit. During the run, Jackson collected 103 hits, establishing himself as the driving force behind Brooklyn’s pennant push. Though he was unable to add to the total this afternoon, the club around him supplied more than enough offense.

Despite the end of the streak, Jackson’s season figures remain staggering. He now stands at a .429 batting average, with three home runs and 71 runs scored, numbers that place him among the game’s brightest stars. The 60-game run surpasses even his fine effort of 46 games set just last year.

Reflecting on the streak, Jackson said, “I knew it would end sooner or later. I’m glad it helped the club while it lasted, and that’s what matters most.”

Manager Ned Hanlon echoed that sentiment, adding, “What Joe has done these past two months speaks for itself. A streak like that doesn’t win games alone, but it gives a club confidence every time he steps to the plate.”

Though the streak has passed into the record books, the Superbas continue forward, and Joe Jackson remains at the heart of Brooklyn’s championship hopes.

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SPORTING TIMES — July 10th, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley

BRAVES RUN RIOT IN 24–0 ROUT OF CARDINALS; CRAVATH HITS FOR CYCLE

The Boston Braves delivered one of the most astonishing performances of the season today, overwhelming the St. Louis Cardinals by a staggering 24–0 margin at home. The result was decided almost as soon as it began, as Boston erupted for nine runs in the first inning and showed no mercy as the scoring continued throughout the afternoon. The emphatic victory lifts the Braves to 38–44 on the year.

At the heart of the onslaught stood Gavvy Cravath, who turned in a day for the ages. Cravath collected five hits in seven at-bats, completed the cycle, scored three runs, and drove in seven. His performance raised his batting average for the season to .319 and set the tone for a game the Cardinals never had a chance to recover from.

Cravath wasted no time announcing his intentions. In the first inning, as Boston batted around the order, he launched a two-run home run and later added an RBI single. After a lone fly out in the third, he resumed his steady work with a single in the fourth, a double in the sixth, and, following a ground out in the seventh, capped his remarkable day with a triple in the eighth to complete the cycle.

Speaking after the game, Cravath said, “Everything seemed to fall right today. When the club gets going like that early, it makes a hitter’s work much easier.”

Braves manager Kyle Jackson was equally impressed, remarking, “You don’t often see a ball club put together an inning like that first one, let alone keep it going all day. Cravath led the way, and the rest followed.”

It was a day of rare dominance for Boston, one that will be spoken of long after the summer of 1913 has passed.

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SPORTING TIMES — July 21st, 1913
By Arthur H. Leland

REDS HALT FREE FALL WITH ROAD VICTORY IN PHILADELPHIA

After weeks of frustration and disappointment, the Cincinnati Reds finally found relief today, snapping an 11-game losing streak with a hard-fought 7–5 victory on the road against the Philadelphia Phillies. The much-needed win lifts Cincinnati to 40–57 on the season, though the long slide has already carried them to the bottom of the National League standings.

Throughout their recent troubles the Reds’ bats have continued to show life, and that trend held true again this afternoon. This time, however, the pitching did just enough to support the offense and see the club home with a victory.

The standout at the plate was Johnny Bates, who turned in a flawless afternoon. Bates went 4-for-4, drove the ball for two triples, scored two runs, and knocked in one, providing consistent pressure on the Phillies’ defense and setting the tone for Cincinnati’s attack.

On the mound, veteran Eddie Plank showed signs of rediscovering his best form. Plank worked seven and one-third innings, surrendering seven hits and four runs, steadying the club when the game threatened to slip away and earning the win that halted the Reds’ downward spiral.

After the game, Plank reflected on the effort, saying, “It’s been a tough stretch for all of us, but today we battled and didn’t let go. That’s the kind of pitching and play we’ve been striving for.”

Reds manager Patrick Pinnow welcomed the result with clear relief, remarking, “The club has kept fighting even when the wins weren’t coming. Today the pitching held, the bats did their part, and that’s how you stop a skid.”

For Cincinnati, the victory does not erase the damage of recent weeks, but it does offer a much-needed reminder that the season still holds opportunity if the Reds can build upon this long-awaited success.

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SPORTING TIMES — July 25th, 1913
By George F. Winthrop

YANKEES FALL AGAIN AS HUGHES INJURED IN NARROW DEFEAT

The trying season of the New York Yankees took another unhappy turn this afternoon, as they were defeated 5–4 at home by the Cleveland Naps, a result that drops the club to 36–57 on the year. Worse still than the loss itself was the late injury suffered by pitcher Jay Hughes, an incident that cast a pall over the Polo Grounds as the contest came to its close.

Hughes gamely worked the entire game for New York, but misfortune struck on the final out of the top of the ninth inning. After throwing to first base to record the out, Hughes suddenly clutched his shoulder and was clearly in distress. Club medics hurried to his side, and he left the field accompanied by the training staff. He was unable to take his turn at the plate in the bottom of the ninth, being removed for a pinch hitter, while the crowd departed with grave concern over the state of the hurler’s arm.

Despite the painful ending, Hughes’ effort was a determined one. He went nine full innings, allowing 11 hits and 5 runs, leaving his earned run average at 3.05. The defeat set his season record at 7 wins and 12 losses.

The fears surrounding his condition were confirmed after the game, when it was announced that Hughes has suffered a torn labrum. He is expected to be sidelined for three months, an absence that will in all likelihood bring his season to a premature close.

Speaking quietly after the diagnosis, Hughes said, “I felt it go on that last play. It’s a hard way to finish a game, and harder still to step away like this, but I’ve given what I could.”

Yankees manager Chris Smith expressed his concern for his pitcher, remarking, “Jay battled through nine innings for us today, and that’s the kind of effort you want from a man. Losing him now is a heavy blow for the club.”

For New York, the loss was another close defeat in a season filled with them, and the injury to Hughes only deepens the challenges facing the Yankees as the long summer wears on.

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SPORTING TIMES — July 26th, 1913
By Charles H. Wentworth

PIRATES FALL IN TEN, BUT LEACH REACHES HISTORIC MARK

The Pittsburgh Pirates suffered a damaging blow to their pennant hopes this afternoon, going down 10–3 in ten innings at home to the Philadelphia Phillies. The defeat leaves Pittsburgh with a 52–47 record and casts a shadow over what had been a promising chase. Yet amid the disappointment, there was one notable bright spot for the home nine.

Veteran infielder Tommy Leach reached a rare and distinguished milestone, collecting the 2,000th hit of his career. Leach finished the day 1 for 4, scoring two runs, with the landmark blow coming in the top of the first inning, when his hit put the Pirates ahead 1–0 and briefly set the tone for the afternoon.

That early advantage proved fleeting, however, as the contest wore on and the Phillies eventually broke the game open in extra innings. Pittsburgh was unable to match the visitors’ late surge, and the long contest ended in decisive fashion.

Leach’s steady play continues to anchor the Pirates’ order, and his season batting average now stands at a robust .332. Over a career that began in 1898, and which has seen him wear a Pittsburgh uniform since 1900, Leach owns a lifetime average of .265.

Reflecting on his milestone in the wake of defeat, Leach said, “It’s an honor to reach a number like that, though I’d gladly trade it for a win today.”

Pirates manager Jason Leach struck a similar note, remarking, “Tommy’s hit is something the whole club can take pride in. It’s a shame it came on a day when we couldn’t finish the job.”

For Pittsburgh, the loss stings, but the achievement of one of the club’s longest-serving men stands as a reminder of the experience and resolve still present in the Pirates’ ranks as the season presses on.

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SPORTING TIMES — July 31st, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley

TRADE DEADLINE CLOSES WITH SENATORS AND REDS LEADING ACTIVITY

As the month of July draws to a close, the baseball world has seen the trade deadline window close, and teams have put the finishing touches on their rosters for the stretch drive toward the pennants. This year’s market was quieter than usual, with only three trades of note, yet the American League leading Washington Senators and the National League Cincinnati Reds figured prominently in the activity.

The first move came on July 15th, when the Senators shipped left-handers Al Schulz, 24, and Howard McGraner, 23, to the National League Reds, receiving in return 31-year-old right-hander Buck O’Brien. O’Brien has struggled this year, posting a 7–12 record with a 5.12 ERA in 23 starts, but Washington hopes his veteran presence can help solidify the pitching staff for the stretch run.

Two days later, on July 17th, the Senators made a second move, sending 24-year-old shortstop Marty Krug to Cincinnati for 35-year-old right-hander George McConnell. McConnell enters with a 9–10 record and a 3.48 ERA from 22 starts, adding another experienced arm to the Senators’ rotation.

Finally, on July 31st, the American League Cleveland Naps were active in the market, trading 30-year-old right fielder Solly Hofman and 24-year-old right fielder Wally Rehg to the Philadelphia Phillies of the National League. In return, Cleveland received 23-year-old shortstop Jimmy Esmond and 23-year-old catcher Dick Cotter. Hofman, struggling at the plate this year, has hit .230 over 66 starts and 84 games.

While the trades were modest in number, they represent a strategic move for teams aiming to bolster pitching and fill gaps for the stretch run. Washington, in particular, looks to add veteran stability, while Cleveland and Cincinnati hope their new acquisitions can provide the spark needed to make up ground in their respective leagues.

No commentary from players or managers has been reported at this time, but the season enters August with rosters set and pennant races shaping up to be fiercely contested.

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

Pennant Races Begin to Take Shape as Leaders Pull Away

As over half the 1913 season has now been played, the pennant races in both leagues are beginning to show clear leaders, with little doubt forming about the teams likely to contest for top honors.

In the American League, the Washington Senators have surged ahead, opening a 10-game lead over both the Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers, who share second place. At the opposite end of the standings, the New York Yankees continue to struggle, now 24½ games behind the Senators and 6 games back of seventh-place Cleveland, giving them the distinction of holding the worst record in baseball by 6 games.

The National League sees a similar tale of a runaway leader, as the Brooklyn Superbas hold an 11-game advantage over the New York Giants, with the Pittsburgh Pirates a half-game back in third. The Cincinnati Reds occupy the cellar, though they remain only a half-game behind seventh-place Chicago Cubs, leaving the middle of the league tightly packed.

Monthly Awards — July 1913

American League

Top Batter: Tris Speaker, Cleveland Naps — .404 average, 6 RBI, 23 runs scored (Speaker’s third time claiming this honor this year)

Top Pitcher: Willie Mitchell, Washington Senators — 6–1, 1.74 ERA

Rookie of the Month: Dutch Leonard, Chicago White Sox — 4–2, 2.44 ERA

National League

Top Batter: Buck Weaver, Boston Braves — .370 average, 3 home runs, 13 RBI, 30 runs scored

Top Pitcher: Babe Adams, Boston Braves — 5–1, 1.73 ERA

Rookie of the Month: John Donaldson, Brooklyn Superbas — 5–4, 2.72 ERA

With August now upon us, the leaders will aim to solidify their advantages, while those chasing will look to make up ground quickly, as both leagues appear increasingly set to be one-horse races heading into the final months.

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

Piatt Reaches 2,000 Strikeouts as Yankees Turn Back Browns

For the New York Yankees and their veteran right-hander Wiley Piatt, the 1913 campaign has offered little comfort, but this afternoon in New York brought a rare and welcome bright moment. The Yankees claimed a 3–1 victory over the St. Louis Browns, lifting their season mark to 41–65, and in the process Piatt etched his name deeper into the game’s long ledger by recording the 2,000th strikeout of his distinguished career.

The win marked just the fourth of the season for Piatt, yet it was earned with grit and steady command. Working eight and a third innings, the veteran allowed six hits and a single run, while striking out seven Browns batters. The Yankees’ bats did only what was required, but it proved enough to support their pitcher on a day when he clearly had his best form beneath him.

Piatt, who began the season in the bullpen and made only occasional starts, has returned to the rotation in recent weeks following the injury to Jay Hughes, and has responded with poise. His record now stands at 4–4, with an earned run average of 2.66.

“I’ve been at this game a long time, and days like this make all the miles worthwhile,” Piatt said quietly afterward. “I didn’t have everything, but I had enough, and the boys did their part behind me.”

Manager Chris Smith was equally appreciative of the veteran’s effort. “Wiley showed today what experience can mean,” Smith remarked. “He kept his head, kept the ball down, and gave us every chance to win. A milestone like that couldn’t happen to a better man.”

Now in his third season with the Yankees, Piatt’s career dates back to 1898, and his record stands at 243 wins against 229 losses, with a 3.38 earned run average. On this August afternoon, amid a trying season, he added another distinguished chapter to a long and honorable career.

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SPORTING TIMES — August 23rd, 1913
By Charles H. Wentworth

Lord’s Bat Thunders as Phillies Overwhelm Pirates

The Philadelphia Phillies struck with rare fury this afternoon, putting the Pittsburgh Pirates firmly to the sword in a resounding 14–6 victory at home. The triumph lifts Philadelphia to 61–58 on the season and keeps alive their faint but determined hopes of a late pennant charge. At the very heart of the rout stood Bris Lord, who delivered a performance that will be long remembered by the home faithful.

Lord, who has spent much of the season fighting for regular inclusion in the lineup, seized his moment in emphatic fashion. The outfielder launched three home runs, driving the Phillies’ attack from start to finish. He finished the day 3-for-5, scoring three runs and driving in six, accounting for much of the damage inflicted upon the Pirates.

His first blow came in the fourth inning, a solo drive that gave Philadelphia a 3–2 advantage. In the seventh, with the contest still hanging in the balance, Lord struck again, this time a two-run homer that sparked a five-run outburst. He was not finished. In the eighth inning, he sent another two-run shot over the fence, putting the game well beyond Pittsburgh’s reach.

For the season, Lord has now appeared in 88 games, starting 35, and carries a .294 batting average with 12 home runs, numbers that speak to both patience and power finally finding their harmony.

“I’ve waited a long while for a day like this,” Lord said afterward. “I’ve tried to stay ready whenever my name was called, and today the ball just seemed to find the barrel.”

Manager Danny Lara was quick to praise his man. “Bris earned every cheer he got today,” Lara said. “He’s worked hard, stayed patient, and when his chance came, he took it in a way few ever do. That kind of performance can lift a whole club.”

With bats alive and confidence stirring, the Phillies march on, still chasing hope—and now with renewed belief in the strength of their lineup.

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SPORTING TIMES — August 31st, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley

Sheckard Reaches Rare Mark as Cardinals Fall in Cincinnati

The St. Louis Cardinals endured another difficult afternoon on the road today, falling 9–7 to the Cincinnati Reds, a defeat that leaves the club at 59–70 for the season. Yet amid the disappointment, there came a moment of quiet distinction for veteran outfielder Jimmy Sheckard, who recorded the 500th stolen base of his long career.

The milestone came in the midst of a trying contest for both club and player. Sheckard went 0-for-2 at the plate but drew a walk and made the most of it. After reaching first, he promptly stole second base before coming home on a triple by Frank LaPorte, accounting for one of the Cardinals’ seven tallies.

Though the season has been a trying one for the seasoned right fielder, the achievement stands as a testament to his long service and enduring instincts on the base paths. Sheckard is batting .193 on the year across 121 starts, well below his career mark of .271, which he has compiled since beginning his major league journey in 1897. He has worn a St. Louis uniform since 1904.

“I’ve never measured my days by the hard ones alone,” Sheckard said quietly after the game. “To reach a mark like this reminds a man why he’s stayed in the game so long.”

Cardinals manager David Stevens offered praise despite the defeat. “Jimmy’s been through more seasons than most men can count,” he said. “That stolen base is a fine achievement, and it shows the heart he still brings to this club, no matter how the year has gone.”

Though the Cardinals continue to labor in the standings, the afternoon offered a small but worthy chapter in the long and steady career of one of the game’s most enduring figures.

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

Pennant Races Settle as September Dawns

With the final month of the base ball season now upon us, the great pennant races have lost much of their earlier fire, leaving supporters in both leagues searching for late drama where little now appears likely to emerge.

In the American League, the Washington Senators continue to stride confidently toward the flag, holding a commanding 10-game advantage over the St. Louis Browns in second place. The Detroit Tigers and Chicago White Sox remain a few games further back, unable thus far to mount a serious challenge. At the other end of the table, the New York Yankees have endured a grim campaign and now sit last in the circuit at 53–71, giving them the poorest record in all of base ball.

The National League presents a similar picture of separation at the top. The Brooklyn Superbas enjoy a commanding nine-and-a-half game lead over the Pittsburgh Pirates, with the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Giants a further game behind in third place. At the foot of the table, the Cincinnati Reds find themselves in dire straits, fully 22 games adrift of the leaders.

With September now underway, clubs are permitted to expand their rosters, offering contenders a chance to add a final piece in pursuit of the pennant, while those already out of the running may turn their attention toward testing younger men for the seasons ahead.

Monthly Awards

American League
Top Batter: Beals Becker, Detroit Tigers — .388 average, 2 home runs, 16 RBIs, 17 runs scored
Top Pitcher: Willie Mitchell, Washington Senators — 6–4, 2.00 ERA
Rookie: Dutch Leonard, Chicago White Sox — 2–2, 1.71 ERA

National League
Top Batter: Heinie Zimmerman, Philadelphia Phillies — .443 average, 6 home runs, 31 RBIs, 26 runs scored
Top Pitcher: John Donaldson, Brooklyn Superbas — 5–1, 1.32 ERA
Rookie: John Donaldson, Brooklyn Superbas — 5–1, 1.32 ERA

As September unfolds, the races may be largely settled, yet the final weeks promise their own stories, triumphs, and reckonings before the long summer finally fades into autumn.

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SPORTING TIMES — September 5th, 1913
By George F. Winthrop

Reds Routed in Chicago as Bell Suffers Grave Injury

The long and trying season for the Cincinnati Reds grew heavier still this afternoon, as they were soundly beaten 18–2 by the Chicago Cubs on the road. The defeat leaves Cincinnati with a record of 58–79, and the day proved a painful one both on the scoreboard and in spirit.

Already reeling after a difficult campaign, the Reds found themselves undone early when starter Eddie Plank was forced from the contest in the third inning after surrendering early runs. Veteran right-hander George Bell was summoned from the bench in relief, but his afternoon proved no kinder. Bell worked but a single inning, yielding four hits and three runs, and fared no better than the man he replaced.

Worse still came when Bell suddenly pulled up in the act of delivering a pitch, clutching at his elbow in clear distress. Trainers hurried to his side, and after a brief examination he was escorted from the field, unable to continue. The scene cast a somber air over an already difficult day for the Reds.

Following the contest, grim news emerged. Bell has been diagnosed with a partially torn ulnar collateral ligament, an injury expected to sideline him for nine months, effectively ending his season. At 38 years of age, there is now quiet speculation as to whether the veteran hurler may choose to bring his long career to a close.

For the season, Bell finishes with a 1–3 record, having appeared in 19 relief outings and one start, compiling an ERA of 6.55.

“I hate to leave the club like this,” Bell said quietly after the game. “I gave what I had today, but my arm would not answer the call.”

Manager Patrick Pinnow spoke with concern for his veteran pitcher, saying, “George has given this club everything he had. It’s a hard blow to lose a man of his experience, and we all feel for him tonight.”

Thus, on a bleak afternoon in Chicago, the Reds were left not only with another heavy defeat, but with the uncertain future of one of their most seasoned arms.

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SPORTING TIMES — September 15th, 1913
By Charles H. Wentworth

Braves Win in Pittsburgh, but Lose Joss to Injury

The Boston Braves added another creditable chapter to their season this afternoon, defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates 4–2 on the road to move their record to 71–67. Yet the victory came at a heavy price, as star pitcher Addie Joss was forced from the contest with an injury that now threatens to overshadow the triumph.

Joss opened the contest in commanding fashion, retiring the Pirates without a hit or run in the first inning. Trouble struck early in the second, however, when the veteran right-hander suddenly clutched at his elbow in the act of delivering a pitch. Trainers rushed to his side, and after a brief examination he was escorted from the field, his day—and perhaps his season—at an abrupt end.

Though his time on the mound was brief, Joss departed having allowed no hits and no runs over one inning of work. For the season, he now stands at 16–15 from 35 starts, carrying an ERA of 3.44.

After the game, the news from the clubhouse cast a long shadow over the Braves’ hard-earned victory. Joss has been diagnosed with a partially torn ulnar collateral ligament, an injury expected to require nine months of recovery, bringing his season to a premature close and casting uncertainty over the beginning of the next.

“I felt something give, and I knew right away it wasn’t right,” Joss said quietly. “It’s a hard way to step aside, especially when the club has been playing such good ball.”

Manager Kyle Jackson spoke solemnly of the loss. “Addie has been one of the pillars of this club,” he said. “To lose him now is a heavy blow, but the men will carry on with him very much in mind.”

Though the Braves left Pittsburgh with a well-earned victory, the cost may linger far beyond this single September afternoon.

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SPORTING TIMES — September 24th, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley

Superbas Clinch National League Pennant with Tenth Straight Victory

The Brooklyn Superbas have at last placed an exclamation point upon their splendid campaign, securing the National League pennant this afternoon with a 5–1 victory over the New York Giants on their rivals’ own ground. The triumph marked the club’s tenth consecutive win, a run that has placed the championship beyond all doubt and lifted Brooklyn to a commanding 91–54 record for the season.

At the heart of the victory stood 22-year-old rookie John Donaldson, who delivered a performance far beyond his years. Calm and controlled throughout, Donaldson scattered six hits and one walk across a complete nine-inning effort, allowing just one run as he carried his club to the title. The win raised his season record to 22–14, accompanied by an impressive 2.86 earned run average.

The Superbas’ bats did only what was required, producing five runs—ample support for their young pitcher on a day when composure and execution proved more valuable than fireworks.

After the final out, Donaldson spoke modestly of the moment. “I just tried to pitch the same game I always do,” he said. “The fellows gave me the runs I needed, and I’m proud to have done my part for this club.”

Manager Ned Hanlon praised both his pitcher and his team’s resolve. “This pennant was earned through steady work from the first week on,” he remarked. “Donaldson showed today the kind of poise that wins championships. Every man on this club deserves his share of the credit.”

With the pennant secured and momentum firmly in their grasp, the Brooklyn Superbas can now look ahead knowing they stand alone atop the National League.

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SPORTING TIMES — September 25th, 1913
By Arthur H. Leland

Superbas’ Streak Ends at Ten Despite Gallant Effort from Alexander

The Brooklyn Superbas saw their fine ten-game winning streak brought to a halt this afternoon, falling 5–2 at home to the New York Giants. While the defeat trimmed their record to 91–55, there was little concern among the Brooklyn faithful, as the club has already secured the National League pennant beyond dispute.

The afternoon belonged largely to the Giants’ bats, though Grover Cleveland Alexander battled gamely for the Superbas. The sturdy right-hander went eight full innings, surrendering 10 hits and 4 earned runs, laboring through a trying contest in which fortune and support were both in short supply. His season ledger now stands at 25 victories against 13 defeats, with a 3.04 earned run average, figures that speak strongly of his value to the pennant-winning nine.

Brooklyn’s offense could not find its usual rhythm, managing just five hits over the course of the game, leaving Alexander with little margin for error.

After the contest, Alexander remained composed. “I gave them all I had today,” he said. “Some days the ball doesn’t fall your way, but the important thing is what this club has already accomplished.”

Manager Ned Hanlon echoed that sentiment. “We’ve had a fine run, and one loss doesn’t dim what this club has done,” he remarked. “Alexander battled hard, and this team has earned the right to hold its head high.”

Though the streak has ended, the Superbas remain firmly atop the National League, their championship already secured as the season winds toward its close.

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SPORTING TIMES — September 28th, 1913
By George F. Winthrop

Stack Spins Masterpiece as Naps Blank White Sox

The Cleveland Naps have endured a season more trying than triumphant, yet today they were afforded a moment of rare brilliance as they shut out the Chicago White Sox 8–0 on the road, lifting their record to 65–84. The victory was made memorable by a performance for the ages from Eddie Stack, who turned in a magnificent no-hit effort over nine full innings.

From the opening frame to the final out, Stack was in complete command. Mixing his fastball, changeup, and slider with calm assurance, he kept Chicago’s bats utterly subdued. The White Sox managed nothing more than a single walk, and though the Cleveland fielders committed three errors, none proved costly as Stack never wavered.

Run support arrived early and steadily, allowing the young right-hander to pitch with confidence and composure, free from the pressure that so often burdens a tight contest.

At just 25 years of age, Stack is completing his first season as a regular starter after spending previous years in limited use. His campaign now stands at 16–19 from 37 starts and 57 appearances, accompanied by a commendable 2.94 earned run average.

After the game, a modest Stack reflected on the day’s achievement. “Everything was working the way it should,” he said. “The fellows behind me made the plays when they had to, and once the runs came, I just tried to keep throwing strikes.”

Naps manager Jose Ramirez was equally appreciative. “That was as fine a pitching performance as you’ll see anywhere,” he remarked. “Eddie stayed in command the whole way, and he earned every bit of that victory.”

Though the season has brought its share of hardship for Cleveland, this afternoon will long stand as a bright chapter in an otherwise difficult campaign.

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

Pennant Races Settled as Season Nears Its Close

With only a handful of games remaining on the calendar, the long campaigns of both leagues are drawing toward their close, and the matter of the pennants has at last been settled. Though the final contests remain to be played, the chief questions have already been answered, and thoughts now turn toward the coming World’s Series.

In the American League, the race was effectively decided well before the month began, with the Washington Senators proving far too strong for the field. They formally secured the pennant on September 13th, and now stand a commanding 18½ games clear of the second-place Chicago White Sox. At the opposite end of the table, the Cleveland Naps have slipped into last place as the season winds down.

The National League offered a touch more suspense, though the result is now just as certain. The Brooklyn Superbas clinched their pennant on September 24th, and finish the month holding a commanding 16½-game advantage over the Boston Braves. At the foot of the standings sit the Cincinnati Reds, who now find themselves 33 games adrift of the league leaders.

As September closes, individual excellence has again stood out across both circuits.

Monthly Awards

American League
Top Batter: Beals Becker, Detroit Tigers — .353 average, 3 home runs, 25 RBIs, 20 runs scored
Top Pitcher: Earl Yingling, Boston Red Sox — 6–1, 2.45 ERA
Rookie: Earl Yingling, Boston Red Sox — 6–1, 2.45 ERA

National League
Top Batter: Joe Jackson, Brooklyn Superbas — .388 average, 1 home run, 22 RBIs, 21 runs scored
Top Pitcher: Larry Cheney, Brooklyn Superbas — 5–1, 1.34 ERA
Rookie: Bob Shawkey, Pittsburgh Pirates — 3–3, 1.75 ERA

With the pennant races now resolved, the final days of the season will serve as a prelude to the autumn classic, where the champions of both leagues will soon meet to decide supremacy in the national game.

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SPORTING TIMES — October 2nd, 1913
By Samuel T. Kingsley

Phillies Claim Victory in New York, but Lose Perdue to Serious Injury

The Philadelphia Phillies closed out their eastern visit on a brighter note today, securing a 9–5 victory over the New York Giants, though the triumph came at a heavy cost. The win lifts Philadelphia’s record to 72–80, but the afternoon was overshadowed by a serious injury to starting pitcher Hub Perdue, whose day — and season — came to a sudden halt.

Perdue had just begun the second inning with his club holding a 3–2 advantage when misfortune struck. As he delivered a pitch, he lost his footing and fell awkwardly from the mound, immediately clutching his elbow. The training staff rushed to his side, and it was quickly evident that he could not continue. He was helped from the field amid a hushed and anxious crowd.

For the game, Perdue worked one inning, allowing one hit and no earned runs, though two runs crossed the plate. For the season, he now stands at 16–20 across 39 starts and 50 total appearances, carrying an ERA of 4.76.

Following the contest, grim news emerged from the Phillies’ quarters. Examination revealed that Perdue has fractured his elbow, an injury that will require approximately four months of recovery, bringing his season to a premature close.

Speaking afterward, the shaken hurler said, “I felt it go the moment I hit the ground. It’s a hard way to finish, but I’ll do what’s needed to come back right.”

Manager Danny Lara expressed both disappointment and concern. “Hub has given this club everything he had all year,” said Lara. “It’s a cruel break for a man who’s battled through so much. We’ll miss him greatly down the stretch.”

The Phillies depart New York with a victory in the ledger, but the loss of their veteran pitcher casts a long shadow over the closing days of the season.