Trapped in the Basement: The Philadelphia Phillies (1942 - )

MAY 15

I was getting final preparations for the team’s return to Philadelphia after their series with the Giants, when I received an urgent phone call from Ford Frick.
“Andrew, this is NL President Ford Frick. I don’t have a lot of time, and quite frankly neither do you.”
“What do you mean, Mr. Frick?”
“Andrew, Judge Landis has been moved to the emergency room of his Chicago hospital. He’s not doing well at all. The outlook is bleak, at best. I’m calling to summon you to New York City tomorrow, so the National League can formulate its own contingency plan should the commissioner pass.”
So instead of relaxing here in Philadelphia, I’d have to drive 3 hours to New York and attend meetings all day. Perfect.

*****

Before I could leave the office, I had to wait out the rest of the day. Around 3 PM, a middle-aged man walked into the office and patiently waited for me to finish pretending like I had something to do.
“Can I help you, sir?”
“I certainly hope you can. My name is Richard Zimmerman.”
“Nice to meet you, Richard. Please have a seat. Now, what exactly are you here for?”
“Well, Mr. Walsh, I...you don’t mind if I call you Andy, do you? Andy, I’ve got a proposition to make. It seems that I’ve wanted to own a baseball club for sometime now. Now I’ll level with you, you weren’t my first choice but it is an appealing prospect. Now, I’m willing to offer you $500,000 for the ownership rights to the Phillies. I’ll just need you to sign here and...”
“Whoa, whoa, whoa: you want me to sell you the Phillies?”
“Yes sirree, Andy, and at a bargain price. I know that you’ve been having some financial troubles and this will be a great opportunity for you to get out while you still can.”
“Wait, financial troubles? The team made over $25K last season, and we’re on pace to make even more this year. We continue to outdraw the Athletics in their stadium, and the team is competing despite their young age. I’m sorry Mr. Zimmerman, but the Phillies are not for sale.”
“Please? I mean, the team stinks.”
“Mr. Zimmerman, before I call security, the team is not for sale. Good day to you, sir!”
“Alright, I’m leaving, but you ain’t heard the last of me. He who laughs last, laughs best”, and he turned and walked out the door.
Boy, if I had a nickel for every time that happened, I’d be about 5 cents richer. Who in their right mind would willingly want...oh wait, I did. Oops.

OOC: Just waiting for BBM09 to come out. Trying to stall before getting it, but will probably get through the draft with 08 before starting play with 09.

Just before I continue, I'd like to let everyone know I switched to BBM2009 (v11.04).

Also, a trade went down.
New York Giants receive:
CF Vince DiMaggio (85) - .253, 4 HR, 14 RBI
Philadelphia Athletics receive:
RP Mike Budnick (66/80)
RP Mickey McGowan (64/75)
RP John Carden (64/80)
Looks like Connie Mack is starting to shed payroll. He might be in real financial trouble. I wonder if he's looking for cash...

MAY 16

The meeting was uneventful, as anticipated. It was just to establish an emergency plan in case the commissioner should be incapacitated. However, I did speak to several other owners, and every last one of them said that this Zimmerman character had asked them to sell their teams. I thought this was odd, so I made a mental note about it.

I made the long drive back and met with Bucky Harris. It seems that the manager I hired doesn’t deal with losing too well. I had to convince him to stay through the All-Star break. Hopefully that’s enough time for the kids to turn this around.

I also got a postcard from Nick today. Turns out he’s touring the African savannah until May 24, then flying to Tibet to meet with monks or something. At least he’s having fun.

Anyways, after the needed day off, the boys come back home for a series with the Dodgers.

MAY 1943
PART II

With the team mired in 7th place, most fans and pundits agree that we’ll need a miracle to win this year’s pennant. I’m inclined to agree with them. I knew this year would be rough, and I figure that the next 2 years will also be a struggle. However, I still think we can make a run at finishing in the first division this year. If the hitters can start hitting and the pitchers can start pitching, then maybe we do have a shot at the pennant. But let’s just take it one game at a time from here on out.

However, we will make some changes. The lineup as a whole is struggling, primarily Chuck Klein. I’ll put him on the bench so Ron Northey and Earl Naylor can get solid playing time. Here is the new batting order.

SS Phil Rizzuto
2B Danny Murtaugh
3B Pinky May
LF Danny Litwhiler
1B Gil Hodges
C Andy Seminick
RF Ron Northey
CF Earl Naylor

4 rookies and only 1 player over 26 years old. Yikes.

May 17-20: Brooklyn Dodgers (28-15, 1st, 1 GA) at Philadelphia Phillies (15-28, T-7th, 13 GB)

17 – The Phillies score 6 times in the first three innings, as Jack Kraus pitches 8 strong while allowing only 1 run, and the Phillies coast to a victory.
Phillies 6, Dodgers 1
W: Jack Kraus (5-6) L: Kirby Higbe (2-1)

18 – The Dodgers jump out to an early 3-0 lead, and add plenty of insurance as they roll to an easy victory.
Dodgers 7, Phillies 2
W: Paul Derringer (6-3) L: Gene Lambert (1-3)

19 – Andy Seminick goes 3-3 with a home run and 4 RBI in support of Dick Mauney, who lowers his ERA to a team-best 3.17 with only 2 earned over 6 innings.
Phillies 8, Dodgers 3
W: Dick Mauney (4-2) L: Johnny Vander Meer (1-6)
HR: Andy Seminick (5)

20 – Johnny Podgajny goes the distance, allowing only 1 run, and the Phillies push the winning run across in the bottom of the ninth inning.
Phillies 2, Dodgers 1
W: Johnny Podgajny (2-6) L: Max Macon (0-1)

May 21-23: Philadelphia Phillies (18-29, 7th, 12 GB) at Boston Braves (20-27, 6th, 10 GB)

21 – Jack Kraus twirls a beautiful four-hit shutout, and Pinky May goes 3-4 with an RBI, as the Phillies win their third straight game.
Phillies 2, Braves 0
W: Jack Kraus (6-6) L: Jim Tobin (4-5)

22 – Despite 2 Phillies home runs and a 9-inning effort put forth by Gene Lambert, the game goes into extra innings, where crucial errors by Phil Rizzuto cost the Phillies the game.
Braves 4, Phillies 3
W: Elmer Singleton (1-0) L: Hugh Casey (1-1)
HR: Danny Litwhiler (6), Andy Seminick (6)

23 – Despite losing a 5-1 lead in the span of an inning, the Phillies fight back to score 2 in their next at bat, giving them the hard-earned victory.
Phillies 7, Braves 6
W: Joe Page (2-0) L: Dave Odom (1-1) SV: Emil Kush (2)
HR: Ron Northey

May 24-27: New York Giants (31-19, T-1st, 1 GA) at Philadelphia Phillies (20-30, 7th, 11 GB)

24 – I guess 2 consecutive great outings were too much to ask of Johnny Pod. He implodes in the 6th and 7th and the offense is unable to react.
Giants 8, Phillies 5
W: Van Mungo (6-5) L: Johnny Podgajny (2-7) SV: Ace Adams (4)
HR: Chuck Klein (5)

25 – A 13-inning marathon ends with a Johnny Mize home run, but there isn’t a whole lot to complain about. Tommy Hughes returned from injury and went 9 solid innings for us.
Giants 5, Phillies 4 (13)
W: Hoyt Wilhelm (4-2) L: Emil Kush (1-3)

26 – Jack Kraus and Ed Hanyzewski combine for a 3-hit shutout, and the offense explodes for 8 runs, as the Phillies roll.
Phillies 8, Giants 0
W: Jack Kraus (7-6) L: Hal Schumacher (7-2)
HR: Andy Seminick (7)

27 – Carl Hubbell 3-hits us for a complete game shutout. Wow.
Giants 2, Phillies 0
W: Carl Hubbell (6-3) L: Dick Mauney (4-3)

May 28: Day Off

then flying to Tibet to meet with monks or something

Maybe he'll bring back Sidd Finch to pitch for your team!

3RunHomer: We certainly could use him!

MAY 28

I love these days off. It allows me to handle all the front office business that I can’t deal with on game days. It allows me to sit down and just think.

Mainly I think about the team. I think about all the things that we’ve accomplished in our 14 months of owning a ball club. I thought about buying the land to make a new stadium. I thought about Gil Hodges, Andy Seminick, and Ron Northey. I thought long and hard about what I could do to make this team a champion.

I thought about the past: Grover Alexander, Gaavy Cravath and the 1915 pennant-winning Phillies. I thought about the Baker Bowl, and the early days, when the team was managed by George Wright.

I came to this reasoning. The window for a championship will be open for a long time: my core players are all in their early to mid-twenties. This is one advantage we have over the competition. However, we don’t have that dominant starting pitcher that can simply overpower the opposition. Tommy Hughes is nice, but he’ll probably only be a second option long term. If only there was such a pitcher in this season’s draft, I would hope he falls to us. I hear there is one next season, but I’m not sure if I want to purposely try and lose. I already hate losing as it is, I’m not sure I could stomach losing on purpose.

I then started to think about my future. I was certainly set for money. I owned a Major League franchise, for goodness sakes. But I was 29 years old. Eventually, I’d have to take Nick’s advice and start dating again. I had a girlfriend in college, but I caught her cheating on me with another guy. Ever since then, I’ve been a little gun-shy about starting a new relationship, in the fear that it could happen again.

I then thought about my parents. My father was killed in First World War, leaving my mother a widow. My mother died of pneumonia when I was only 7, so I was brought up by Nick’s family. My little brother Alexander went to live with my Aunt in San Francisco, and my baby sister Mary went to live with my grandparents. I hardly got to know my parents, but the Stephens’ said that they were great people. They certainly loved us, enough to give all 3 of us paid tuition to colleges across the country. It’s a shame that I never got to spend more time with them.

I thought about my business ventures. I started playing the market when I was still in college, and managed to hit a few lucky breaks. Afterwards, Nick and I started our own firm, and we had more great luck, becoming so successful that we sold the firm this year for $1 million each. I’d really like to start another company, hopefully one that I can keep this time. It’s nice to have the gate receipts, but it would certainly help if I had another source of income.

My daydreaming got interrupted by Elizabeth, who always looked like she’d stepped out of a dream. The news she gave me brought me back to reality:

“Andrew, there’s a call for you from President Frick. He says it’s urgent.”

TO BE CONTINUED...

“President Frick?”
“Andrew, how are you?”
Ford Frick wasn’t really an intimidating man. He started his baseball career as a journalist. He started as the PR director of the National League in 1934, and became league president that same year. He was instrumental in the foundation of the Baseball Hall of Fame, which had become a huge success in its formative years.
“Well, Mr. Frick, I’m running a seventh-place ball club. I could be better. How about yourself?”
“The same, for different reasons obviously. Andrew, I’m calling on league business. First, the amateur draft will be held in New York City this year, and we will have an owner’s meeting the following day to vote on the sale of a team. Are you able to attend?”
“Yes sir, Mr. Frick. Who is selling?”
“I’m sorry, but you’ll have to find out next week.”
“I see. Well, my staff and I will be there.”
“Excellent. Oh, and I need you to think about possible cities that would welcome a full-time baseball team.”
“If you don’t mind me asking, why do I need to do that?”
“Oh, no reason. I just want to gather some ideas for the future. Baseball is a hot commodity, and I think that more of America would like to get a taste.”

*****

Speaking of the draft, I finally got that report from Larry, Moe, and Curly. Here are some of the best prospects available.

Code:

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SP Sam Jones
3B Willie Jones
RP Cuddles Marshall
C Yogi Berra
LF Minnie Minoso
SP Harvey Haddix
SP Ned Garver
RF Vic Wertz
SP Bobby Shantz
SP Bob Rush
RP Alton Brown

---

I’m going to be looking primarily at pitching with my first selection, with one eye on Harvey Haddix. He has the best control of anyone in his class, and can also blow hitters away. I’ll hope he falls to us at #5. Other players that I'm keeping my eye on are 3B Willie Jones, LF Minnie Minoso, and C Yogi Berra.

A late-round selection that I have my eye on is 1B Eddie Gaedel. I know I already have a first baseman, but he’s got a pretty good eye for a high-schooler. My scouts tell me he’s “a little undersized”, but I’m sure he’s got the heart and determination to make up for it.

Hm. Frick's request for an owner's meeting sounds....troubling. At least it isn't the Judge this time!

CatKnight: I think it will be an interesting meeting, and it will have a lot to do with the future of the game ;)

As for the Judge, he's still recovering in the hospital, although I hear that he's getting worse by the day. It looks like that emergency plan will be put to good use sooner than expected...

BACK TO BASEBALL

May 29-June 1: Chicago Cubs (31-23, 3rd, 3 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (21-33, 7th, 13 GB)

29 – In a close game, Bill Lee and Jesse Flores are just good enough to beat Johnny Podgajny and Joe Page, giving the Cubs the win.
Cubs 5, Phillies 3
W: Bill Lee (6-2) L: Johnny Podgajny (2-8) SV: Jesse Flores (1)
HR: Chuck Klein (6)

30 – It’s good to have Tommy Hughes back. He reverted to last year’s form, tossing a 5-hit shutout for the easy win.
Phillies 9, Cubs 0
W: Tommy Hughes (3-3) L: Joey Lothian (2-5)
HR: Danny Litwhiler (7), Cecil Tyson (3)

31 – An extra-inning thriller gets decided when the Cubs push a run across in the 10th, as old friend Rube Melton gets the victory.
Cubs 3, Phillies 2 (10)
W: Rube Melton (5-0) L: Hugh Casey (1-2)

1 – We outhit the Cubbies, but Bill Nicholson’s 2-run home run (his 17th) is all the Cubs would need today, as Shaun Hale goes the distance.
Cubs 4, Phillies 1
W: Shaun Hale (8-4) L: Dick Mauney (4-4)

Danny Litwhiler pulled up lame after grounding into a double play. He has been diagnosed with a hip pointer, and will be out for a few days.

June 2-5: Cincinnati Reds (20-38, 8th, 16 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (22-36, 7th, 14 GB)

2 – I wish there was a way to quantify how many good outings that Johnny Podgajny has had this year. Wait! There is! Wins (6-hit shutout for Johnny Pod)!
Phillies 3, Reds 0
W: Johnny Podgajny (3-8) L: Ewell Blackwell (1-2)

3 – It makes me sick when we outhit our opponents and still find a way to lose. Today, we just can’t seem to string those hits together.
Reds 3, Phillies 1
W: Frank Dasso (4-7) L: Tommy Hughes (3-4) SV: Earl Harrist (2)

4 – The offense explodes on Bucky Walters scoring 5 runs in the first two innings, as Jack Kraus dominates the Reds on the way to a complete game victory.
Phillies 6, Reds 1
W: Jack Kraus (8-6) L: Bucky Walters (5-3)
HR: Chuck Klein (7)

5 – This was a tough game. Andy Seminick’s 9th-inning home run tied the game and forced extra innings. In the 13th, the Reds are able to push across the eventual winning run.
Reds 2, Phillies 1 (13)
W: Junior Thompson (4-2) L: Joe Page (2-1) SV: Earl Harrist (3)
HR: Andy Seminick (8)

STANDINGS

Code:

---

NATIONAL LEAGUE
Brooklyn        39-23        -
New York        36-26        3
Chicago                34-28        5
St. Louis        34-28        5
Boston                30-32        9
Pittsburgh        29-33        10
Philadelphia        24-38        15
Cincinnati        22-40        17
                       
AMERICAN LEAGUE
New York        41-21        -
Boston                37-25        4
Cleveland        36-26        5
Detroit                31-31        10
Washington        31-31        10
Chicago                26-36        15
St. Louis        24-38        17
Philadelphia        22-40        19

---

Interesting, don't tell me somebody sold out to that Zimmerman punk! :eek:

it's a tremendous dynasty.

I'm going to do a quick sim with it--my only difference is starting in 41, before the war. That way I have a slightly different world--where the players all were exempt, but I have full rosters.

--adam

Overbay: I guess you'll have to wait and see... ;)

adam: Thanks for reading! I would suggest, however, that you start in 1940. I know in 1941 that several players had already enlisted for service, most noticeably Hank Greenberg. It has been a drag without a lot of these talented players, but I'm just going to have to make do.

1943 AMATEUR DRAFT

The owners and their staffs gathered in New York City for the 2nd Amateur Draft. With last year’s #1 pick, Gil Hodges, already finding success at the Major League level, most people expected similar things from this year’s class. However, this class isn’t quite as deep as last years, so it will probably be quite a while before anyone makes an impact.

The Detroit Tigers were “awarded” the first overall pick, and used it to draft RP Clarence “Cuddles” Marshall. I don’t know if I would spend a first-round pick on someone nicknamed Cuddles, but the Tigers got a future relief ace with an incredible screwball.

The Cincinnati Reds were next and selected SP Sam Jones. Jones is a strikeout artist with a great curveball. The only question seems to be if he can keep it in the strike zone.

The Chicago White Sox selected SP Bob Rush. Rush is a Major-League-ready pitcher with terrific endurance. His setback? The movement on his pitches could use improvement.

The St. Louis Browns selected SP Harry Byrd. Byrd has an electric fastball that could blow away a lot of Major League hitters. Control and movement are issues with him, however.

As our pick rolled around, I was overjoyed that our top 4 were still on the board, so after a brief discussion with my scouts, I practically ran up to the podium:

“With the 5th pick in the 1943 MLB Amateur Draft, the Philadelphia Phillies select SP Harvey Haddix.”

The first round, as well as a few notable picks:

Code:

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#  TEAM                          PLAYER (PEAK)
1. Detroit Tigers          RP Clarence Marshall (91)
2. Cincinnati Reds          SP Sam Jones (90)
3. Chicago White Sox          SP Bob Rush (83)       
4. St. Louis Browns          SP Harry Byrd (89)
5. Philadelphia Phillies  SP Harvey Haddix (87)
6. Boston Braves          SP Rob Kelley (82)
7. Chicago Cubs                  SP Jason Rabbitt (82)
8. Philadelphia Athletics SP Ned Garver (85)
9. Washington Senators          SP Brian Beaty (85)
10. Pittsburgh Pirates          SP Bobby Shantz (85)
11. Brooklyn Dodgers          C Yogi Berra (84)
12. New York Giants          SP Reagan Calhoun (82)
13. Boston Red Sox          SP Joel Woodland (82)
14. Cleveland Indians          LF Minnie Minoso (90)
15. St. Louis Cardinals          LF Del Ennis (84)
16. New York Yankees          RP Peter Bagnall (84)

21. Philadelphia Phillies SP Kent Bickett (78)
37. Philadelphia Phillies SP Jeff Walker (76)
53. Philadelphia Phillies 1B Eddie Gaedel (77)
69. Philadelphia Phillies RF Joe Szekely (73)
85. Philadelphia Phillies C Ryan Scifo (65)

17. Detroit Tigers          3B Willie Jones (92)
18. Cincinnati Reds          RF Vic Wertz (85)
48. New York Yankees          CF Bill Bruton (82)
79. St. Louis Cardinals          RP Alton Brown (83)

---

Very interesting choices by both the Dodgers and the Cardinals. The Dodgers pick a catcher, when they have 21-year-old Roy Campanella already starting for them. The Cardinals have the reigning NL MVP, Stan Musial, patrolling left field, so they take a leftfielder. Interesting, but really, really dumb.

Harvey Haddix - great great choice.

I think I've heard of that Berra kid. Maybe he and Ennis will be trade opportunities in a couple seasons?

3RunHomer: Thanks. Even though I had my other targets fall to me as well, I always wanted Haddix. I felt that I needed starting pitching more than anything.

Come to think of it, I've heard of that Berra fellow too. I just can't remember where... :D

I was surprised with those two picks. I mean, Campanella's a young catcher not yet at his peak (which is greater than Berra's, BTW) and Musial's the reigining NL MVP, for crying out loud. Oh well, I guess we'll just have to see how it plays out...

JUNE 6

I walked from my hotel to the Commissioner’s Office. It was a beautiful morning in New York City, with the sun streaking between the skyscrapers. Maybe I’ll walk through Central Park after the meeting, if it gets out early enough. I’ve heard horror stories about these ownership meetings. This wasn’t an ordinary meeting, you see. This was to approve the sale of a team. The future of a Major League franchise was at stake. The decision of the 15 other owners would forever shape the fortunes of one city.

I took my seat next to Phil Wrigley and Bob Quinn. I asked them if they had heard who was selling, and they both gave me the same response: “I have no idea.”

All the other owners filed in, except for Donald Barnes of the Browns, and it soon became obvious: Barnes had finally found a buyer.

Donald Barnes had been threatening to move the St. Louis Browns ever since I took over as owner, and for a few years back even. He even had scheduled a meeting to approve a move to Los Angeles on December 8, 1941. Understandably, the league voted him down, as this was the day after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Barnes has been complaining that he wasn’t given a fair shake, but I think he should’ve coordinated with the Japanese before scheduling the meeting.

Now that he wasn’t going to be able to move the Browns in the near future, Barnes had apparently found someone to take the dreadful Browns. The Browns were just as bad as the Phillies, except we actually had a pennant to show for our efforts. The Browns had nothing. “First in shoes, first in booze, and last in the American League”, as many fans would say. The Cardinals had begun to draw fans away from the Browns as well, so attendance was lagging. Barnes may have been desperate, so he was willing to sell to any loser that walked into his office.

And right on cue, in walked Donald Barnes with Richard Zimmerman smiling like a kid in a candy store.

Ford Frick and Will Harridge followed the two men in the room, and the doors closed behind them.

“Seeing as we are all here, I suppose we can begin.” Will Harridge was taking charge of the meeting. The AL president was the longer-serving of the two league presidents, and was to serve as interim commissioner for these types of meetings. However, when it came to league matters, the presidents had jurisdiction over their respective leagues.

“Gentlemen, last week, it was brought to Ford’s and my attention that Mr. Zimmerman’s offer to buy the Browns had been accepted by Donald Barnes. Donald, if you would like to back out, now is your chance to do so.”

“Mr. Harridge, I am comfortable in my decision. I will allow the sale.”

“Very well. We will now commence the voting. Please respond with a yes or no answer. The League Presidents DO NOT have a vote.”

We all got a nervous laugh over that.

“Alright, the measure needs 10 votes in the affirmative to pass. Is that understood?”

We all nodded our heads in agreement. Zimmerman was still smiling like he couldn’t move his face.

“Let’s start with the National League. Powel, how do you vote.”
Crosley stood: “No.” Crosley had been approached by Zimmerman as well, and was very wary of him.
“Andrew Walsh?”
I stood: “No.” The smile was starting to fade on Zimmerman’s face.
“Will Benswanger?”
The Pirates GM stood: “Yes.” His owner, Florence Dreyfuss hadn’t been approached, and he was banking on an improved Browns knocking the Cardinals off the top of the NL food chain.
“Bob Quinn?”
The Braves owner stood: “Yes.”
“Sam Breadon?”
The Cardinals owner had made a ton of money with Barnes as the owner, and he didn’t want things to change. “No.”
“Phil Wrigley?”
“Yes.” Phil was also interested in seeing the Cardinals hurting.
“Horace Stoneham?”
“Yes.”
“Branch Rickey?”
“Yes.”
The Dodgers and the Giants were in the same boat as the Cubs and Pirates: they didn’t want a strong Cardinals team, so they wanted a strong Browns team to keep them in check.
“Connie Mack?”
The Grand Old Man stood: “Yes.”
“Harry Grabiner?”
The White Sox GM had been approached by Zimmerman, but he liked the man. “Yes.”
“Clark Griffith?”
“Yes.”
“Walter Briggs?”
“Yes.”
“Alva Bradley?”
The Indians owner was approached by Zimmerman, and simply couldn’t stand the man. “No.”
“Tom Yawkey?”
“Yes, a million times over.”
“Ed Barrow?”
The longtime Yankees GM stood: “It doesn’t make a lick of difference, but no.”

Harridge and Frick tallied up the votes. “With a total of 10 to 5, this measure passes. Donald, thank you for your service, and Richard, welcome aboard.”

I could tell that the AL teams thought that a new owner in St. Louis would help fight the Yankees’ dominance. I just wish that Zimmerman had gone to every owner just so they could’ve seen his dreadful personality.

“Now gentlemen, I believe that Mr. Zimmerman has a statement prepared.”

“Fellow owners,” he began with that toothy grin, “it really is a dream come true to be working with all you. I know that I may be a little green, but I’ll do my darndest to get the Browns back to competitiveness.”

There was the obligatory courtesy applause, and the meeting was adjourned.

***

After the meeting, Richard Zimmerman came up to me.

“Hey there Andy! How have you been? Well, I just came here to talk business with you. You had this great centerfielder last season. Ed Freed, was it? Well, I just wanted to know the asking price of acquiring a player like that.”

Was he serious? He wanted to trade for someone who would be out for the rest of the season? Now the moral dilemma came: do I take advantage of him, or do I try and do the right thing? Before I could decide what to do, I had a gut reaction.

“Vern Stephens.”

“Well, I think I might have to pry another player away from you before I just go giving my starting shortstop to you. How about Freed, Billy Johnson and some cash for Stephens?”

My conscience caught up with me. “Look, Richard, I’ve got to level with you: Ed Freed’s out for the season with a busted knee. He might not be the same player when he returns. I just can’t execute this trade without letting you know that.”

“Oh I know about the injury. Thing is, I’m not going to be able to afford Wally Judnich come the end of the season, and I wanted a capable reserve outfielder. Have we got ourselves a deal?”

“We sure do. I’m sorry I was so short with you Richard when we met last month. You just caught me at a bad time.”

“You? Geez, you should’ve seen the reactions I was getting from the other owners! I know I’m not the most likable guy, but hey, I like to think I know what I’m doing.”

“Nice dealing with you, Richard, and good luck in St. Louis.”

“Thanks Andy. You too!”

Maybe I was wrong about Zimmerman. Perhaps he is an OK guy. He certainly knows how to make good trades.

Philadelphia Phillies receive:
SS/3B Vern Stephens (86/94)

St. Louis Browns receive:
CF Ed Freed (71/89)
3B Billy Johnson (73/84)
$10,000

Vern Stephens will play 3B for us, as Pinky May is relegated to the bench. I’ll be shopping him come the trading deadline.

After an eventful few days in New York City, I drove back to Philadelphia, where Connie Mack had begun preparations for this year's All-Star Game, which was now only 3 weeks away.

JUNE 1943

I know that the draft had just passed, but one of my scouts passed me along the report on one of the top prospects in next year’s draft: Robin Roberts. From everything I’ve read, this kid looks like the next Grover Alexander. I mean, he won’t turn 18 until after the season, and he’s Major League ready! This looks like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. As much as I hate to lose, I seriously have to consider it in order to get a talent like Roberts.

June 7-10: Philadelphia Phillies (24-38, 7th, 15 GB) at Chicago Cubs (34-28, T-3rd, 5 GB)

7 – Chuck Klein gets 3 hits, but Bill Lee and Whitey Miller are able to hold the rest of the lineup to only 4 as the Cubs pick up a game on the Dodgers.
Cubs 2, Phillies 0
W: Bill Lee (7-3) L: Johnny Podgajny (3-9) SV: Whitey Miller (10)

Harvey Haddix made his professional debut for the A Memphis Chickasaws, going 6.2 innings, allowing only 1 unearned run on 3 hits as he picked up the win.

8 – Bill Nicholson’s pinch-hit grand-slam chases Tommy Hughes from the game, and eliminates any hope that the Phillies have for winning today’s game.
Cubs 8, Phillies 3
W: Joey Lothian (3-6) L: Tommy Hughes (3-5)

9 – Claude Passeau tosses the shutout, giving up 10 hits, as Andy Pakfo and Bill Nicholson add home runs in the Cubs’ rout.
Cubs 6, Phillies 0
W: Claude Passeau (5-4) L: Jack Kraus (8-7)

10 – The Phillies rally to tie the game in the top of the 8th inning, but Joe Page allows the go-ahead run in the bottom half as the Cubs sweep the Phillies, and pick up another game on the Dodgers.
Cubs 4, Phillies 3
W: Shaun Hale (9-4) L: Joe Page (2-2) SV: Whitey Miller (11)

It is a sad day for Philadelphia, as both the cities’ baseball teams occupy the bottom spot of the standings with identical 24-42 records.

June 11-13: Philadelphia Phillies (24-42, 8th, 17 GB) at Cincinnati Reds (25-41, 7th, 16 GB)

11 – Gene Lambert started today in an effort to shake things up. Despite striking out 7, Lambert gives up 4 runs in a losing effort, extending the losing streak to 6 games.
Reds 5, Phillies 3
W: Elmer Riddle (5-5) L: Gene Lambert (1-4) SV: Walker Cress (5)

12 – Tommy Hughes and Ed Hanyzewski combine for a six-hit shutout, snapping the losing streak and putting the Phillies back in the right column.
Phillies 6, Reds 0
W: Tommy Hughes (4-5) L: Ewell Blackwell (1-4)

13 – Jack Kraus pitches 8 innings, allowing only 1 run on 6 hits, and Hugh Casey slams the door in the 9th inning to record the save and notch back-to-back Phillies wins for the first time since May 20-21.
Phillies 2, Reds 1
W: Jack Kraus (9-7) L: Bucky Walters (5-4) SV: Hugh Casey (5)

June 14-17: Philadelphia Phillies (26-43, T-7th, 16 GB) at Boston Braves (31-38, 5th, 11 GB)

14 – Andy Seminick goes 3-5 with 2 RBI and Cecil Tyson adds a home run as Dick Mauney allows 2 runs over 8 innings in the third consecutive Phillies victory.
Phillies 6, Braves 2
W: Dick Mauney (5-4) L: Manny Salvo (2-7)
HR: Cecil Tyson (4)

Meanwhile, the Dodgers have allowed both the Giants and the Cubs pull even with them, creating a 3-WAY TIE FOR FIRST PLACE in the National League. In the AL, the Red Sox can’t seem to get close enough to the Yankees, who remain 4 games ahead.

15 – Johnny Podgajny pitches well, but gets absolutely no run support, as Al Javery 2-hits the Phillies, ending their modest winning streak.
Braves 2, Phillies 0
W: Al Javery (7-7) L: Johnny Podgajny (3-10)

16 – Tommy Hughes is the beneficiary of a 7-run 9th inning, as the Phillies pour on the offense on the way to a laugher of a win.
Phillies 13, Braves 4
W: Tommy Hughes (5-5) L: Jim Tobin (7-7)
HR: Chuck Klein (8), Ron Northey (3)

17 – Warren Spahn twirls a beauty, allowing an unearned run on four hits as the Braves win and split the four-game series.
Braves 5, Phillies 1
W: Warren Spahn (8-6) L: Jack Kraus (9-8)

June 18-21: Philadelphia Phillies (28-45, 7th, 16 GB) at St. Louis Cardinals (41-32, 4th, 3 GB)

18 – The offense exploded for 6 early runs, then added 3 late as the bullpen tossed 3 scoreless innings in a Phillies win.
Phillies 9, Cardinals 6
W: Joe Page (3-2) L: Murry Dickson (1-1) SV: Hugh Casey (6)
HR: Gil Hodges (6), Vern Stephens (6), Dom Dallessandro (2)

19 – We keep trotting out Johnny Podgajny every fourth game. We keep getting the same result. We really are kind of stupid, huh?
Cardinals 7, Phillies 5
W: Murry Dickson (2-1) L: Johnny Podgajny (3-11) SV: Art Lopatka (11)

20 – Andy Seminick records 2 hits. That was it. However, this game was decided on a rare bullpen implosion by Emil Kush.
Cardinals 3, Phillies 0
W: Max Lanier (3-0) L: Emil Kush (1-4) SV: Art Lopatka (12)

21 – A contest between two of the NL’s top 5 in ERA turns into a battle of the bullpens won on an Andy Seminick home run in the 12th inning.
Phillies 5, Cardinals 4 (12)
W: Hugh Casey (2-2) L: Murry Dickson (2-2)
HR: Andy Seminick (9)

June 22-24: Brooklyn Dodgers (46-31, T-1st, 1 GA) at Philadelphia Phillies (30-47, 7th, 16 GB)

22 – A Phillies rally falls one run short as the Dodger bullpen manages to hang on the win and a share of first place.
Dodgers 5, Phillies 4
W: Johnny Vander Meer (5-7) L: Dick Mauney (5-5) SV: Jim Hughes (13)

23 – Dolph Camilli homers twice off of Gene Lambert as Kirby Higbe holds the Phillies to 3 hits on his way to a complete game victory.
Dodgers 8, Phillies 1
W: Kirby Higbe (3-2) L: Gene Lambert (1-5)

24 – Another late Phillies rally is unable to dig the team out of the hole its starter (Al Gerheauser) dug for it, and the Dodgers sweep the Phillies.
Dodgers 6, Phillies 4
W: Larry French (8-5) L: Al Gerheauser (1-5) SV: Les Webber (3)

FIRST HALF RECAP COMING SOON

FIRST HALF RECAP

STANDINGS

Code:

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NATIONAL LEAGUE
Brooklyn        49-31        -
New York        47-33        2
Chicago                46-34        3
St. Louis        46-34        3
Boston                38-42        11
Pittsburgh        36-44        13
Philadelphia        30-50        19
Cincinnati        28-52        21
                       
AMERICAN LEAGUE
New York        55-25        -
Boston                50-30        5
Cleveland        44-36        11
Washington        43-47        12
Detroit                39-41        16
Chicago                31-49        24
St. Louis        31-49        24
Philadelphia        27-53        28

RACE TO THE 1944 #1 PICK
Phila. Athletics  -
Cincinnati Reds          1
Phila. Phillies          3
St. Louis Browns  4
Chicago White Sox 4

RACE FOR CITY SUPREMACY
Phillies        30-50        -
Athletics        27-53        3

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SEASON STATISTICS
Red denotes League Leader

BATTING STATS

Code:

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1943 Batting            Team    G  AVG    AB    H  2B  3B  HR  BB    K  SB  CS    R  RBI  SLG  OBP
Klein, Chuck              PHI  79  .328  262  86  17  2  8  17  31    6  3  34  36  .500  .371
Rizzuto, Phil            PHI  78  .311  296  92  13  3  0  29  32    8  12  33  27  .375  .372
Tyson, Cecil              PHI  62  .300  120  36  7  0  4  13  19    0  0  15  22  .458  .368
May, Pinky                PHI  68  .291  247  72  14  2  0  26  22    2  0  19  16  .364  .364
Dallessandro, Dom        PHI  57  .280  107  30  9  1  2  11  13    1  0  15  17  .439  .347
Stephens, Vern            PHI  78  .274  317  87  15  3  6  20  35    1  2  34  37  .397  .318
Litwhiler, Danny          PHI  75  .267  258  69  13  5  7  17  29    1  4  31  40  .438  .312
Livingston, Mickey        PHI  14  .250    32    8  1  0  0    2    3    1  0    3    2  .281  .294
Seminick, Andy            PHI  77  .245  265  65  6  0  9  28  29    0  0  34  34  .370  .324
Northey, Ron              PHI  71  .244  234  57  11  3  3  17  20    1  0  26  19  .355  .294
Mauney, Dick              PHI  16  .229    35    8  1  0  0    0  10    0  0    1    3  .257  .229
Podgajny, Johnny          PHI  16  .212    33    7  2  0  0    0  11    0  0    3    3  .273  .212
Hodges, Gil              PHI  69  .211  213  45  6  1  6  32  29    3  2  32  27  .333  .315
Marnie, Harry            PHI  54  .206  126  26  3  1  0    3  18    1  0  12    6  .246  .225
Murtaugh, Danny          PHI  65  .174  178  31  6  1  0  26  25    7  1  16  10  .219  .279
Naylor, Earl              PHI  46  .168  131  22  6  0  0  10  19    2  0  12  13  .214  .238
Gerheauser, Al            PHI    9  .167    18    3  0  0  0    0    2    0  0    2    1  .167  .167
Lambert, Gene            PHI    9  .111    18    2  2  0  0    1    6    0  0    2    2  .222  .158
Kraus, Jack              PHI  20  .071    42    3  1  0  0    4  12    0  0    2    1  .095  .149
Hughes, Tommy            PHI  13  .031    32    1  0  0  0    0  12    0  0    0    2  .031  .031
Murphy, Ed                PHI    2  .000    2    0  0  0  0    0    0    0  0    1    0  .000  .000
Page, Joe                PHI  24  .000    2    0  0  0  0    0    1    0  0    0    0  .000  .000
Masterson, Paul          PHI    9  .000    1    0  0  0  0    0    0    0  0    0    0  .000  .000

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PITCHING STATS

Code:

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1943 Pitching            Team    IP  ERA    G  GS  W  L  SV    K  BB  R/9
Casey, Hugh              PHI  20.2  1.74  14  0  2  2  6    9    8  8.71
Kush, Emil                PHI  38.0  2.13  28  0  1  4  2  17  16 11.61
Kraus, Jack              PHI  141.0  2.87  20  20  9  8  0  52  39 10.66
Mauney, Dick              PHI  111.1  3.72  16  16  5  5  0  47  33 11.56
Hughes, Tommy            PHI  93.0  3.97  13  13  5  5  0  45  34 12.29
Page, Joe                PHI  42.2  4.22  24  0  3  2  1  22  30 14.98
Podgajny, Johnny          PHI  112.0  4.42  16  16  3  11  0  34  51 13.74
Masterson, Paul          PHI  17.0  5.29    9  0  0  1  1    9  11 16.41
Hanyzewski, Ed            PHI  24.0  5.63  18  0  0  1  0  11  13 13.88
Lambert, Gene            PHI  58.1  6.94    9  9  1  5  0  38  32 14.66
Gerheauser, Al            PHI  48.1  7.26    9  6  1  5  0  19  30 17.88
Matthewson, Dale          PHI    6.1  9.95    4  0  0  1  0    5    5 24.16

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LEAGUE LEADERS

Code:

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NATIONAL LEAGUE LEADERS               
AVG - Phil Cavarretta (CHC)        .344
HR - Dolph Camilli (BRO)        22
RBI - Bill Nicholson (CHC)        82
SB - Sam Jethroe (BSN)                23
W - Whit Wyatt (BRO)                14
ERA - Lon Warneke (STL)                2.43
K - Warren Spahn (BSN)                89
SV - Jim Hughes (BRO)                13
    Art Lopatka (STL)                13
                               
AMERICAN LEAGUE LEADERS               
AVG - Luke Appling (CHW)        .356
HR - Ted Williams (BOS)                23
RBI - Jimmie Foxx (BOS)                76
SB - Walt Chipple (WSH)                13
W - Jim Bagby (CLE)                13
ERA - Lefty Gomez (NYY)                2.40
K - Hal Newhouser (DET)                111
SV - Tom Ferrick (CLE)                12

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MILESTONES

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SS Luke Appling (CHW): 1000th Run (5/13)
CF Lloyd Waner (DET): 2500th Hit (5/26)
RF Bill Nicholson (CHC): 4 HR in 1 Game (5/26)
SP Mel Harder (CLE): 200th Win (5/31)
CF Doc Cramer (DET): 2000th Hit (6/1)
SP Larry French (BRO): 200th Win (6/2)
SP Lon Warneke (STL): 200th Win (6/4)
SP Paul Derringer (BRO): 200th Win (6/9)
3B Harlond Clift (NYY): 1000th Run (6/16)
SS Luke Appling (CHW): 2000th Hit (6/19)
LF Ned Harris (DET): 22-Game Hitting Streak (6/20)
CF Joe DiMaggio (NYY): 1000th RBI (6/22)

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MAJOR INJURIES

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5/1: SP Larry French (BRO) out 2 weeks with a hairline fracture.
5/13: SP Lon Warneke (STL) out 2 weeks with a pulled groin.
5/20: C Bill Dickey (NYY) out 3 weeks with a ruptured knee ligament.
5/23: CF Barney McCosky (DET) out 3 weeks with a stress fracture.
5/30: LF Charlie Keller (NYY) out 3 weeks with a sprained thumb.
6/14: SP Whit Wyatt (BRO) out 2 weeks with a dislocated shoulder.
6/23: 3B Bill Hart (BRO) out for the season with a broken wrist (Final Stats: .252, 0 HR, 12 RBI).

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NOTABLE RETIREMENTS

SP Curt Davis retired. Davis pitched in 9 seasons for the Phillies (1934-36), the Cubs (1936-37), the Cardinals (1938-40), and the Dodgers (1940-42). He appeared in the 1936 and 1939 All-Star Games. His career line: 121-100, 3.55 ERA, 559 K in 1766.1 IP.

Rough first half, that was. At least you've got some young players on your squad, and maybe you can be the best team in Philly.

Donny: That's the moral dillemma I was facing: do I try and do the best I can, or try and lose games so I can get Robin Roberts? Although, if the Reds and the Athletics keep losing like they are, it really won't matter.

I have played up to the trade deadline (lots of fun trades still to come!), but I'll get the All-Star break posted sometime overnight.

I'd like to take this opportunity to ask for some feedback: how do you think I'm doing so far? I'll take any comments and questions, ranging from layout of the posts to personnel moves. Just shoot me a PM, or post it here. I wouldn't be this far if it wasn't for you reading, and I like to let you call the shots sometimes.

HOW do you know about Roberts?

What I mean, is that if you started a fresh game to look at the next draft, fair enough...but since you're still in mid season, if the game generated the next draft something is wrong.

The next draft shouldn't come up on screen until April 1.
*****

That said...God, you have a really tough choice. I hate tanking....but Roberts is SO **** good. And you really can't go anywhere this year as far as making a pennant run.

Then again, if Landis (or Frick) find out you're manipulating the standings there will be h*** to pay. (and if Landis doesn't, he'll be laughing at your ineptitude all the way to the grave.)

CatKnight: I started new games for 1944-1946 just to see what was upcoming in terms of talent. As a matter of fact, here are the best available draftees for those seasons.

Code:

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1944
SP Robin Roberts
CF Duke Snider
SP Lew Burdette
SP James Hein
SP Don Newcombe
SP Mike Watson
1B Roy Sievers
SP Paul Ross

1945
RP Dick Weik
CF Richie Ashburn
SP Jack Harshman
SP Jim McDonald
SP Ariel Dove
RF Jackie Jensen
2B Nellie Fox
1B Joe Adcock

1946
SP Whitey Ford
SP Bob Buhl
CF Gus Bell
RP Ray Nerleski
RP Hersh Freeman
LF Rip Repulski
SP Jay Klehm
RP Ken Lehman

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As for this whole "tanking" issue, the other teams are making it awfully hard for me to pick up ground, and the team is actually starting to show signs of coming around.

HOME RUN SHOWDOWN

Ted Williams was obviously miffed about not getting out of the first round last season, so he exploded for 15 HR, just to ensure that he'd see another round of pitches. Joining him in the semifinals were Charlie Keller, Luke Easter, and Ralph Kiner.

The Splendid Splinter slugged another 7 HR in the second round to advance to the final against Luke Easter, the Indians first baseman, who outlasted Kiner and Keller to advance.

Easter, however, was no match for Terrible Ted today. Williams jacked another 5 HR in the final to easily win his first Home Run Showdown.

Code:

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1943 Home Run Showdown

FIRST ROUND (10 Outs)

PLAYER                          HOMERS
Ted Williams (BOS)                  15
Charlie Keller (NYY)                9
Luke Easter (CLE)                    6
Ralph Kiner (PIT)                    6
Bob Johnson (NYG)                    5
Bill Nicholson (CHC)                4
Rudy York (DET)                      3
Roy Campanella (BRO)                3
Jimmie Foxx (BOS)                    2
Dolph Camilli (BRO)                  2

SECOND ROUND (5 Outs)

PLAYER                          HOMERS
Ted Williams (BOS)                  7
Luke Easter (CLE)                    5
Ralph Kiner (PIT)                    4
Charlie Keller (NYY)                3

FINAL ROUND (5 Outs)

PLAYER                          HOMERS
TED WILLIAMS (BOS)                  5
Luke Easter (CLE)                    3

    WINNER: Ted Williams

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1943 ALL-STAR GAME

The Philadelphia Athletics are the official host team, but I’ve had to shoulder a lot of responsibility as the game is being played in our home ballpark. A sellout crowd of 33,000 is expected, probably the only time all season that Shibe Park will be sold out. It’ll be a matchup of Early Wynn for the Americans and Jim Tobin for the Nationals.

AL ALL-STARS

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STARTERS                # ALL STAR GAMES
C  Ernie Lombardi (CLE)        6
1B Jimmie Foxx (BOS)        11 (consecutive)
2B Bobby Doerr (BOS)        2
3B Harlond Clift (NYY)        2
SS Pee Wee Reese (NYY)        1
LF Ted Williams (BOS)        4 (consecutive)
CF Joe DiMaggio (NYY)        8 (consecutive)
RF Jeff Heath (CLE)        2
SP Early Wynn (WSH)        2 (consecutive)
                       
C  Rick Ferrell (SLB)        8 (2 consecutive)
1B Rudy York (DET)        4 (3 consecutive)
SS Luke Appling (CHW)        6 (5 consecutive)
LF Gee Walker (PHA)        2
LF Roy Cullenbine (SLB)        3 (consecutive)
C Birdie Tebbetts (DET)        2
CF Dom DiMaggio (BOS)        2
LF Charlie Keller (NYY)        4 (consecutive)
RF Wally Moses (BOS)        2
1B Luke Easter (CLE)*        1
SS Joe Cronin (BOS)        8
                       
P  Lefty Gomez (NYY)        8
P  Red Ruffing (NYY)        7 (6 consecutive)
P  Tex Hughson (BOS)        1
P  Jim Bagby (CLE)        1
P  Atley Donald (NYY)        1
P  Bill Butland (BOS)        1
P  Bill Kennedy (WSH)        1
P  Mace Brown (BOS)        2
P  Tom Ferrick (CLE)        1
P  Norm Branch (NYY)        1

First-Timers: 9
Team Breakdown:
9 - Red Sox
8 - Yankees
5 - Indians
2 - Senators, Browns
1 - White Sox, Athletics, Tigers

* - INJURED, WILL NOT PLAY

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NL ALL-STARS

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STARTERS                # ALL-STAR GAMES
C  Roy Campanella (BRO)        1
1B Dolph Camilli (BRO)        3
2B Jack. Robinson (BRO)        1
3B Stan Hack (CHC)        5 (3 consecutive)
SS Arky Vaughan (BRO)        10 (consecutive)
LF Bob Johnson (NYG)        5
CF Stan Musial (STL)        2 (consecutive)
RF Bill Nicholson (CHC)        3
SP Jim Tobin (BSN)        1
                       
LF Ralph Kiner (PIT)        1
LF Ernie Koy (CIN)        1
C Walker Cooper (STL)        2 (consecutive)
C Phil Masi (BSN)        1
2B Frank Gustine (PIT)        1
3B Vern Stephens (PHI)        1
RF Mel Ott (NYG)        10 (consecutive)
CF P. Cavarretta (CHC)        2 (consecutive)
RF Bob Elliott (PIT)        2
RF Enos Slaughter (STL)        2
                       
P  Jack Kraus (PHI)        1
P  Whit Wyatt (BRO)        5 (consecutive)
P  Hal Schumacher (NYG)        3
P  Mort Cooper (STL)        1
P  Lon Warneke (STL)        7 (3 consecutive)
P  Paul Derringer (BRO)        6
P  Art Lopatka (STL)        1
P  Whitey Miller (CHC)        1
P  Jim Hughes (BRO)        1
P  Carl Hubbell (NYG)        10 (4 consecutive)

First-Timers:
Team Breakdown:

* - INJURED, WILL NOT PLAY

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Both teams went quietly in the first, but the AL struck with back-to-back walks and a Harlond Clift RBI single. AL 1, NL 0.

The National League would answer in the 4th, when they loaded the bases with only 1 out. They could only push one run across, however, but they did tie the game. AL 1, NL 1.

The AL would regain the lead on an RBI groundout by Joe DiMaggio in the 6th inning. AL 2, NL 1.

The NL would take its first lead of the game in the 8th inning, when it scored twice, but left the bases loaded. NL 3, AL 2.

Whitey Miller came in to try and shut the door on another exciting All-Star Game. He allowed the first two men to reach, then surrendered a one-out RBI double by Luke Appling that tied the game. NL 3, AL 3. The American’s weren’t finished, however, as the next 5 batters all reached base and scored, culminating in a Jimmie Foxx home run. When the dust had cleared, it was AL 10, NL 3. Needless to say, the NL’s balloon had been deflated, and they went quietly in the 9th.

AMERICAN LEAGUE 10, NATIONAL LEAGUE 3

Mace Brown threw 7 pitches in the bottom of the 8th inning and picked up the win.
Whitey Miller gave up 6 runs in 1/3 of an inning, and was charged with the loss.
Jimmie Foxx (BOS) was awarded the MVP award, although there were many deserving candidates. “Double X” went 1-5 with the 3-run home run that sealed the game for the AL.

The Phillies were well represented. Although Vern Stephens struck out in his pinch-hitting situation, Jack Kraus pitched a perfect 4th inning, that allowed the NL to tie the game.

JUNE 27

After the All-Star Game, the Cardinals and the White Sox hammered out a trade.

St. Louis Cardinals receive:
SP Johnny Rigney (84)
Chicago White Sox receive:
SP Glenn Gardner (73/81)
SP George Dockins (68/78)
RP Bill Reeder (66/79)

I think the White Sox win this: three solid prospects for a starter only signed through this season.

With the first half of the season in the books, it’s time to look back, and see what was good and what needs work.

ROTATION
“Young and inexperienced” is about as accurate a description you’re going to find. This group overcame a slew of injuries in the first half to manage respectable numbers, especially from All-Star Jack Kraus (9-8, 2.87 ERA). With Tommy Hughes and Dick Mauney back at full strength, this unit should be better in the second half.

BULLPEN
I would go so far as to say that this is the best unit on my team. The bullpen has improved drastically over last season: the group sports a 3.67 ERA, just a hair over the league average. Key additions Hugh Casey and Emil Kush have kept their ERA’s around 2, and Ed Hanyzewski has really improved after a jittery start. Ike Pearson is fully healed, so that means this unit can only get stronger.

LINEUP
Chuck Klein has starting hitting like a 25-year-old, which is good because Danny Murtaugh has started hitting like a 38-year-old. The transition to big-league pitching has been hard on all my youngster, especially Andy Seminick and Gil Hodges. Danny Litwhiler and Vern Stephens provide Klein with protection and add some pop to the middle of the order.

BENCH
A solid unit. Not too much to brag about, but very capable as backups.

MINOR LEAGUES
Expect to see the following before the season ends:
LF Johnny Blatnik
2B Ray Hamrick
SP Charlie Ripple

These three have been tearing apart AAA Utica. They’ll make a bigger impact next season, but they’ll lay that foundation this season.

SP Harvey Haddix?

My first round pick of this season has been outstanding at A Memphis, and has warranted a promotion to AA Trenton. If he keeps this up, he’ll be in the Majors before you know it.

Now, on with the second half!

LATE JUNE – JULY
PART I

June 28-July 1: Boston Braves (38-42, 5th, 11 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (30-50, 7th, 19 GB)

28 – Warren Spahn welcomes the Phillies back from their break with a complete-game victory, striking out 5 while allowing only 6 hits.
Braves 5, Phillies 2
W: Warren Spahn (10-6) L: Tommy Hughes (5-6)

29 – Trailing 7-2 entering the bottom of the eighth, the Phillies explode for 10 runs and win the game going away.
Phillies 12, Braves 7
W: Emil Kush (2-4) L: Jim Hickey (3-5)

30 – Cecil Tyson’s bases-clearing pinch-hit double gives the Phillies a lead they will not relinquish, and Ike Pearson pitches a perfect ninth for his first save of the year.
Phillies 5, Braves 3
W: Dick Mauney (6-5) L: Manny Salvo (2-10) SV: Ike Pearson (1)

1 – Jim Tobin outduels Gene Lambert in the series finale, and the Braves manage to leave Philly with a split.
Braves 3, Phillies 2
W: Jim Tobin (10-7) L: Gene Lambert (1-6) SV: Jim Hickey (2)

I made one more trade today.
Philadelphia Phillies receive:
SP Marius Russo (79)
$3,000
Cincinnati Reds receive:
3B Pinky May (79)

Yes, this was the best deal I could get for May. I’m disappointed in myself. Ray Hamrick gets the call from AAA Utica to make his Major League debut tomorrow in Brooklyn.

July 2-4: Philadelphia Phillies (32-52, 7th, 20 GB) at Brooklyn Dodgers (52-32, 1st, 3 GA)

2 – The Phillies rally to tie in the top of the 9th inning, but the Dodgers win the game on a walk-off walk by Billy Herman.
Dodgers 6, Phillies 5
W: Les Webber (6-1) L: Joe Page (3-3)
HR: Andy Seminick (10), Chuck Klein (9), Vern Stephens (7)

3 – The Phillies only manage 4 hits. However, Tommy Hughes and Hugh Casey hold the Dodgers to only 1 hit, giving the Phils the road win.
Phillies 2, Dodgers 0
W: Tommy Hughes (6-6) L: Whit Wyatt (14-3) SV: Hugh Casey (7)

Izzy Leon retired. Izzy pitched in 4 games for us in his only season last year, going 0-2 with a 4.91 ERA.

4 – Vern Stephens and Gil Hodges drove in 3 runs apiece, and Hugh Casey nailed down the 6-out save as the Phillies take 2 of 3 from the league-leading Dodgers.
Phillies 6, Dodgers 4
W: Jack Kraus (10-8) L: Johnny Vander Meer (5-8) SV: Hugh Casey (7)
HR: Vern Stephens (8), Gil Hodges (7)

Marius Russo ruptured a knee ligament, and will miss 5 weeks. Johnny Podgajny will be recalled from AAA Utica to take his place.

July 5-8: Pittsburgh Pirates (38-49, 6th, 15 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (34-53, 7th, 19 GB)

5 – Dick Mauney holds the Pirates at bay for 7 innings, as the offense systematically attacks Dick Conger for 7 runs in 4.2 IP.
Phillies 7, Pirates 4
W: Dick Mauney (7-5) L: Dick Conger (0-3)

6 – Another late attempt at a comeback falls short for the Phillies, as their 3-game win streak is ended by Max Butcher’s strong outing.
Pirates 6, Phillies 5
W: Max Butcher (9-8) L: Johnny Podgajny (3-12) SV: Harry Shuman (6)

The Browns shift into rebuilding mode, with Richard Zimmerman at the helm.

St. Louis Browns receive:
SS Merl Combs (66/76)
Boston Red Sox receive:
3B Bob Dillinger (71/76)

Let’s call this a draw, because there isn’t a clear winner with this trade.

7 – A solo home run is all the damage that the Pirates pin on Tommy Hughes, as last season’s wunderkind rolls to a complete game victory.
Phillies 4, Pirates 1
W: Tommy Hughes (7-6) L: Ken Heintzelman (5-8)
HR: Danny Litwhiler (8), Gil Hodges (8)

Our last trade before we hit the deadline.

Philadelphia Phillies receive:
RF Jimmy Wasdell (77)
SP Bil McCahan (70/82)
RP Mike Budnick (66/80)
Philadelphia Athletics receive:
LF Danny Litwhiler (87)

A cross-town trade? Absolutely, especially if I get two promising pitching prospects for someone who’s only hit better than .280 once in his career that’s eligible for arbitration. Plus, this makes the A’s better immediately, so I have more hope of getting that #1 pick.

8 – Jack Kraus pitches 8 innings, allowing only 2 runs on 7 hits, and picks up his team-leading 11th victory of the season as the Phillies win again.
Phillies 8, Pirates 2
W: Jack Kraus (11-8) L: Bob Chesnes (1-2)

July 9 – Day Off

July 10-12: Chicago Cubs (51-40, 4th, 5 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (37-54, 7th, 19 GB)

10 – Andy Seminick’s 9th-inning home run tied the game, but the Cubs would prevail in 12 thanks to Eddie Stanky’s RBI double.
Cubs 6, Phillies 5 (12)
W: Whitey Miller (4-4) L: Joe Page (3-4) SV: Vern Olsen (1)
HR: Andy Seminick (11)

Ray Hamrick will miss 2 weeks with a sprained knee. Al Glossop will return to the big club from AAA Utica.

I mention this now, because it could have a profound effect on the AL pennant race. Red Sox LF Ted Williams will be out for the season with a broken leg. With his .333, 25 HR, 69 RBI line, it is unlikely that Terrible Ted will make it consecutive MVP awards. The Red Sox will use Tom McBride, with all 21 of his career hits, as Williams' replacement.

11 – The Phillies score 4 runs in the 8th inning to force extras, but their 11th inning rally falls one run short as the Cubbies take another one in extra-innings.
Cubs 7, Phillies 6 (11)
W: Whitey Miller (5-4) L: Ike Pearson (0-1)

Another trade from Richard Zimmerman.

St. Louis Browns receive:
CF Jess Pike (80/90)
New York Giants receive:
CF Wally Judnich (92/93)

Trading a backup for one of the best centerfielders in the game today? I think the Giants won this trade hands down.

12 – A terrific pitcher’s duel is won by Shaun Hale, who tosses a complete game four-hitter as the Cubs sweep the Phillies in Philadelphia.
Cubs 2, Phillies 1
W: Shaun Hale (12-7) L: Emil Kush (2-5)

July 13-15: Philadelphia Phillies (37-57, 7th, 20 GB) at Pittsburgh Pirates (39-55, 6th, 18 GB)

13 – Bob Chesnes hurls a shutout, as the Phillies throw the game away on the defensive end (3 errors leading to 5 unearned runs).
Pirates 6, Phillies 0
W: Bob Chesnes (2-2) L: Jack Kraus (11-9)

14 – Another game thrown away by the Phillies defense, as the Pirates push the winning run across home in the 10th inning. The Phillies have lost 5 straight.
Pirates 3, Phillies 2 (10)
W: Diomedes Olivo (3-5) L: Hugh Casey (2-3)

15 – The Phillies bullpen throws 5 scoreless innings, allowing the offense to come back from an early 4-1 hole and win the game in extra-innings.
Phillies 5, Pirates 4 (10)
W: Hugh Casey (3-3) L: Harry Shuman (3-4) SV: Ike Pearson (2)

July 16: Day Off

STANDINGS

Code:

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NATIONAL LEAGUE
New York        60-37        -
Brooklyn        58-39        2
Chicago                56-41        4
St. Louis        56-41        4
Boston                46-51        14
Pittsburgh        41-56        19
Philadelphia        38-59        22
Cincinnati        33-64        27
                       
AMERICAN LEAGUE
New York        66-31        -
Boston                62-35        4
Cleveland        53-44        13
Washington        50-47        16
Detroit                45-52        21
Chicago                39-58        27
St. Louis        37-60        29
Philadelphia        36-61        30

RACE TO THE 1944 #1 PICK
Cincin. Reds        33-64        -
Phila. A's        36-61        3
St. L. Browns        37-60        4
Phila. Phillies        38-59        5
Chi. White Sox        39-58        6

RACE FOR CITY SUPREMACY
Phillies        38-59        -
Athletics        36-61        2

---

I noticed from the all-star rosters that Harlond Clift is playing for the Yankees. The poor Browns -- Clift should be the foundation of their team along with catcher Ferrell.

About next season's draft -- Roberts may fall to you without tanking. He's "supposed" to play for the Phillies and that may be enough to make the AI choose other players for the earlier drafting teams.

But if the Browns make an early jump to Baltimore, they'd be a natural team for Roberts too.

3RunHomer: Well, Ferrell is still there! Clift was traded last season to the Yankees for SP Bill Bevens. He got himself a shiny championship ring, and looks to get another this season. The Browns are in decent shape, for all their losing. Although they traded Wally Judnich to the Giants, they still have Roy Cullenbine and a young talent in Milt Byrnes to patrol their outfield. Their problem is pitching. They don't have nearly enough talent in their rotation to be competitive.

My new strategy in the Roberts sweepstakes is to finish with the second-worst record. There is almost no chance I'm going to catch the Reds (they are awful), so I'll just try and edge out the Browns, White Sox, and Athletics for that second pick, and hope Powel Crosley "overthinks" and takes Duke Snider (or another pitcher) instead.

LATE JUNE-JULY
PART II

July 17-19: New York Giants (60-37, 1st, 2 GA) at Philadelphia Phillies (38-59, 7th, 22 GB)

17 – Vince DiMaggio’s pinch-hit 3-run home run opens the floodgates for the Giants offense as they extend their winning streak to 9 games with a shutout victory.
Giants 6, Phillies 0
W: Freddie Fitzsimmons (8-8) L: Al Gerheauser (1-6)

18 – Vern Stephens falls a single shy of the cycle, as the Phillies put up 5 runs in the second inning and coast to an easy win behind Jack Kraus.
Phillies 8, Giants 3
W: Jack Kraus (12-9) L: Cliff Melton (2-1)
HR: Vern Stephens (9)

19 – A Chuck Klein error erased a 7-1 lead, but the bullpen went 5.1 IP of scoreless baseball, setting up Gil Hodges for a walk-off single in the 13th inning.
Phillies 8, Giants 7 (13)
W: Ed Hanyzewski (1-1) L: Ken Trinkle (4-2)
HR: Ron Northey (4)

July 20-23: Philadelphia Phillies (40-60, 7th, 21 GB) at Boston Braves (47-53, 5th, 47-53)

20 – Warren Spahn only allows a Ron Northey home run, as the Boston lefty dominates the rest of the Phillies order.
Braves 4, Phillies 2
W: Warren Spahn (12-7) L: Johnny Podgajny 3-13)
HR: Ron Northey (5)

21 – Tommy Hughes and Hugh Casey combine for a one-hitter, shutting down the Braves offense as the Phillies rally late to take the win.
Phillies 3, Braves 1
W: Tommy Hughes (8-6) L: Al Javery (10-10) SV: Hugh Casey (9)

22 – Ron Northey smashes his third home run in four games and falls a triple shy of the cycle, as the Phillies rally late to record the win. Emil Kush and Hugh Casey combine for 4 innings of 2-hit relief.
Phillies 6, Braves 3
W: Emil Kush (3-5) L: Elmer Singleton (1-2) SV: Hugh Casey (10)
HR: Gil Hodges (9), Ron Northey (6)

As the deadline approaches, the Yankees and White Sox make a deal.

New York Yankees receive:
SP Eddie Smith (81)
Chicago White Sox receive:
SP David Utley (62/76)
RP Rugger Ardizoia (61/75)
SS Joe Buzas (63/73)

The Yankees have won 8 straight. Someone needs to let the White Sox know about quality over quantity.

23 – The offense tallies 3 runs before Dick Mauney even touches the pitching rubber, and he wouldn’t need anymore, as Mauney tosses a four-hit shutout.
Phillies 6, Braves 0
W: Dick Mauney (8-5) L: Jim Tobin (12-10)

July 24-27: Brooklyn Dodgers (63-41, 1st, 1 GA) at Philadelphia Phillies (43-61, 7th, 20 GB)

24 – Despite outhitting the Dodgers 13-9, the Phillies commit two costly errors and allow the Dodgers to steal a victory in the top of the 9th inning.
Dodgers 4, Phillies 3
W: Les Webber (8-1) L: Hugh Casey (3-4) SV: Jim Hughes (18)

25 - In one of the best pitcher’s duels I’ve seen in a long time, Tommy Hughes and Paul Derringer battle to a 0-0 tie after 8 innings. Dolph Camilli’s RBI double in the top of the ninth is the game’s only run.
Dodgers 1, Phillies 0
W: Les Webber (9-1) L: Hugh Casey (3-5)

26 – Jack Kraus pitches 8 strong innings and Ike Pearson survives a wild 9th inning to nail down the save as the Phillies get back in the win column.
Phillies 4, Dodgers 3
W: Jack Kraus (13-9) L: Larry French (11-7) SV: Ike Pearson (3)

Ray Hamrick is healthy, so Al Glossop goes back to AAA Utica.

2 trades today.

New York Yankees receive:
C Frankie Hayes (84)
Pittsburgh Pirates receive:
SP Stew Hinds (66/76)
RP Karl Drews (66/78)

New York Giants receive:
SP Joe Haynes (81)
Chicago White Sox receive:
RP Jack Bruner (68/78)

The Yankees and Giants win their trades. The other teams just don’t get enough in return.

27 – Dick Mauney just doesn’t have his stuff today, as the Dodgers jump all over him and keep pace with the red hot Cardinals, who have won 8 straight and are now tied for the NL lead.
Dodgers 11, Phillies 3
W: Whit Wyatt (17-5) L: Dick Mauney (8-6)

July 28-31: Chicago Cubs (63-45, 3rd, 3 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (44-64, 7th, 22 GB)

28 – After a first-inning run, Gene Lambert settles down and goes 7 strong inning, as Ron Northey powers the offense to victory.
Phillies 3, Cubs 1
W: Gene Lambert (2-6) L: Joey Lothian (6-11) SV: Hugh Casey (11)

The White Sox unload more talent in a rebuilding effort.

Washington Senators receive:
RF Chet Laabs (86)
Chicago White Sox receive:
1B Roy Valdes (70/86)

The White Sox win, only because the Senators think they can contend from 21 GB.

29 – The Cubbies jump all over spot starter Al Gerheauser, as Claude Passeau pitches a complete game 6-hitter for the win.
Cubs 4, Phillies 2
W: Claude Passeau (9-6) L: Al Gerheauser (2-7)
HR: Vern Stephens (10)

30 – Nearly an exact replay of yesterday’s game, except Shaun Hale allows 7 hits in his complete game victory.
Cubs 4, Phillies 2
W: Shaun Hale (15-8) L: Johnny Podgajny (3-14)

31 – A great pitcher’s duel, the two starters both pitch complete games, but Dick Mauney allows one fewer run than his counterpart Bill Lee.
Phillies 2, Cubs 1
W: Dick Mauney (9-6) L: Bill Lee (12-8)

4 trades made at the deadline this season:

St. Louis Cardinals receive:
RP Gordon Maltzberger (80/82)
Chicago White Sox receive:
SS Solly Hemus (71/82)

The Cardinals get a solid reliever for solid prospect. We'll reevlauate after 5 years.

Boston Red Sox receive:
LF Gee Walker (84)
Philadelphia Athletics receive:
C Eddie McGah (63/78)
C Leslie Aulds (63/78)

The Sox get a replacement for Ted Williams.

Boston Red Sox receive:
C Tom Turner (74)
Chicago White Sox receive:
SP Bobby Smale (60/71)

Someone want to explain this one to me?

And one more involving the Phillies...

TO BE CONTINUED...

JULY 31

I suppose that this story actually begins last night. The thunder kept me awake, although it wasn’t just the thunder.

I like to dream about baseball. I know a lot of you might give me the hairy eyeball, but hear me out. I like to dream about the Phillies, specifically, playing in the World Series.

Last night I dreamt that it was Game 7, and the Phillies had a lead. The Yankees were up in the top of the 9th inning, and had loaded the bases for Joe DiMaggio. Ike Pearson was on to close the door, and worked a full count on DiMaggio. The payoff pitch was true, but DiMaggio tore through the ball, sending it on a line to centerfield. Earl Naylor took off after the ball. However, his shadow was moving faster than he was. Naylor’s shadow caught up to the projectile, but Naylor didn’t. The ball went for a bases-clearing triple, and we lost the Series.

I woke up in a cold sweat. Every time I was able to fall back asleep, Naylor’s shadow was doing something spectacular, while Earl was not. Every time I woke up, I grew more and more confused. The shadow was an outstanding player, while Earl was an ordinary one. Something was missing. I don’t know what exactly, but I know that Earl Naylor is not the answer in centerfield.

This morning, I woke up at around 9 AM (it’s good to be the owner) and grabbed the Philadelphia Inquirer. Today they had their minor league statistics, and I was always interested in seeing how my youngsters were doing down on the farm. However, when I was looking at the A-ball statistics, one name stood out from the rest: Larry Doby.

Doby was a 19-year-old centerfielder in the Indians organization. He was the first African-American to play in an American League game, and the second ever (after Jackie Robinson). He was tearing apart A ball, hitting .401 with 12 HR and 75 RBI. Last season, he hit .411 in rookie ball. He has the potential to be an outstanding hitter, and an outstanding player.

I called up Roger Peckinpaugh, the General Manager of the Indians. Peckinpaugh, in an example of how small the baseball world really is, was the shortstop of the 1924 World Champion Washington Senators, a team managed by player-manager Bucky Harris, who was the second baseman on that team, and is the current manager of the Phillies!

“Roger, what is the asking price for Larry Doby?”

I could sense that I caught his attention. Doby had been languishing in the depths of the Indians’ system, so Peckinpaugh obviously wasn’t a fan.

“Well, we’d need an outfielder of comparable skill, and a solid young first baseman.”

“How about Nick Goulish and Cecil Tyson?”

“Let me check.”

He did an awfully poor job covering the receiver. I could hear every word he said to his scouts that had assembled in his office.

He returned to the line. “We want Naylor instead of Goulish.”

“Well, I suppose that’ll be alright. Can I call you back? I want to run through this once more with my staff.”

“I’ll be waiting,” Roger said as I hung up.

I didn’t have any staff present. I just wanted to think about this in my head. I just had a few questions about how he would adapt, and how the city would welcome him, and how the team would welcome him. If only there was someone with the experience and the knowledge that I could talk to!

As luck would have it, baseball’s Grand Old Man strode by the office.

“Mr. Mack! Can I speak with you for a moment?”

“Why certainly, Andrew. What is it that’s on your mind?”

Connie Mack had certainly earned the respect of every Major Leaguer ever. He had been a part of this game for almost 60 years, as a player, manager, and owner. The 80-year-old Mack showed no signs of slowing down, and was so very helpful to a certain young owner trying to get acclimated.

“Well, Mr. Mack, I guess I have some qualms about this trade possibility I’m thinking about. I mean, I’d really like to get this outstanding centerfielder, Doby, from Cleveland, but I’m worried that Philadelphia may not be ready for a black ballplayer.”

“Andrew, I fully understand your situation. The problem is, the city of Philadelphia doesn’t make decisions, you do. It doesn’t matter if they’re not ready for a black man to play baseball in this town. If you’re ready, then they’ll have to be ready. You will certainly lose some fans, but you will gain the respect and endearment of the blacks in this city, which will more than make up for it. If I was in your shoes, Andrew, I would do it.”

I sat and thought about what Connie had to say, before I dismissed myself.

“Excuse me, Mr. Mack, but I have a trade to approve.”

Connie smiled at me, and went on his way.

Philadelphia Phillies receive:
CF Larry Doby (80/90)
$9,000
Cleveland Indians receive:
CF Earl Naylor (77/94)
1B Cecil Tyson (77/79)

TRADE DEADLINE RECAP

STANDINGS
42 GAMES REMAINING

Code:

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NATIONAL LEAGUE
Brooklyn        68-44        -
St. Louis        68-44        -
Chicago                65-47        3
New York        63-49        5
Boston                55-57        13
Pittsburgh        48-64        20
Philadelphia        46-66        22
Cincinnati        35-77        33
                       
AMERICAN LEAGUE
New York        79-33        -
Boston                72-40        7
Cleveland        60-52        19
Washington        58-54        21
Detroit                47-65        32
Chicago                46-66        33
St. Louis        44-68        35
Philadelphia        42-70        37

RACE TO THE 1944 #1 PICK
Cincin. Reds        35-77        -
Phila. A's        42-70        7
St. L. Browns        44-68        9
Phila. Phillies        46-66        11
Chi. White Sox        46-66        11

RACE FOR CITY SUPREMACY
Phillies        46-66        -
Athletics        42-70        4

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SEASON STATISTICS
Red denotes League Leader

Batting Statistics

Code:

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1943 Batting            Team    G  AVG    AB    H  2B  3B  HR  BB    K  SB  CS    R  RBI  SLG  OBP
Kush, Emil                PHI  37 1.000    1    1  0  0  0    0    0    0  0    0    0 1.000 1.000
Klein, Chuck              PHI  109  .311  376  117  23  2  9  25  41    7  5  47  52  .455  .356
Rizzuto, Phil            PHI  106  .309  395  122  20  4  0  40  40  10  14  54  33  .380  .374
Dallessandro, Dom        PHI  84  .307  166  51  13  2  2  17  19    2  1  20  28  .446  .374
Northey, Ron              PHI  98  .277  336  93  19  4  6  26  26    2  1  41  35  .411  .332
Stephens, Vern            PHI  108  .269  443  119  25  4  10  29  49    2  2  51  57  .411  .314
Livingston, Mickey        PHI  27  .254    59  15  2  0  0    7    6    1  0    7    7  .288  .333
Hamrick, Ray              PHI  13  .244    41  10  0  0  0    5    5    1  0    3    2  .244  .326
Seminick, Andy            PHI  104  .225  351  79  8  0  11  46  39    0  0  42  40  .342  .325
Hodges, Gil              PHI  101  .218  326  71  10  1  9  56  40    5  2  47  41  .337  .332
Mauney, Dick              PHI  24  .218    55  12  2  0  0    0  18    0  0    3    3  .255  .218
Marnie, Harry            PHI  75  .213  164  35  3  1  0    4  23    2  0  18  11  .244  .232
Murtaugh, Danny          PHI  88  .207  241  50  9  1  0  29  29    7  3  21  14  .253  .298
Wasdell, Jimmy            PHI  24  .195    41    8  0  0  0    4    7    0  1    2    4  .195  .267
Podgajny, Johnny          PHI  21  .186    43    8  2  0  0    0  13    0  0    3    3  .233  .186
Lambert, Gene            PHI  12  .174    23    4  2  0  0    1    8    0  0    3    2  .261  .208
Russo, Marius            PHI  18  .143    28    4  1  0  0    0    9    0  0    2    1  .179  .143
Gerheauser, Al            PHI  11  .136    22    3  0  0  0    0    3    0  0    2    1  .136  .136
Kraus, Jack              PHI  27  .083    60    5  1  0  0    4  18    0  0    4    3  .100  .138
Hughes, Tommy            PHI  18  .047    43    2  0  0  0    0  16    0  0    1    2  .047  .047
Murphy, Ed                PHI    2  .000    2    0  0  0  0    0    0    0  0    1    0  .000  .000
Glossop, Al              PHI    5  .000    3    0  0  0  0    0    0    0  0    0    0  .000  .000
Casey, Hugh              PHI  35  .000    1    0  0  0  0    0    1    0  0    0    0  .000  .000
Page, Joe                PHI  27  .000    3    0  0  0  0    0    1    0  0    0    0  .000  .000
Masterson, Paul          PHI  10  .000    2    0  0  0  0    0    1    0  0    0    0  .000  .000

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Pitching Statistics

Code:

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1943 Pitching            Team    IP  ERA    G  GS  W  L  SV    K  BB  R/9
Kush, Emil                PHI  55.1  1.95  37  0  3  5  2  26  25 11.39
Casey, Hugh              PHI  52.1  2.06  35  0  3  5  11  23  18  9.29
Kraus, Jack              PHI  189.2  2.99  27  27  13  9  0  60  63 11.77
Hughes, Tommy            PHI  132.0  3.27  18  18  8  6  0  63  45 10.98
Mauney, Dick              PHI  170.0  3.49  24  24  9  6  0  72  63 11.65
Page, Joe                PHI  46.1  4.27  27  0  3  4  1  24  34 15.54
Masterson, Paul          PHI  22.0  4.50  10  1  0  1  1  11  13 14.73
Podgajny, Johnny          PHI  145.0  4.66  21  21  3  14  0  45  67 13.84
Hanyzewski, Ed            PHI  28.2  5.02  23  0  1  1  0  12  14 13.50
Lambert, Gene            PHI  81.2  5.40  12  12  2  6  0  54  40 13.56
Pearson, Ike              PHI    8.0  5.63    6  0  0  1  3    1    2  9.00
Russo, Marius            PHI  101.0  5.70  18  18  2  8  0  45  56 15.59
Gerheauser, Al            PHI  64.2  6.82  11  8  1  7  0  27  41 17.12
Matthewson, Dale          PHI    6.1  9.95    4  0  0  1  0    5    5 24.16

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LEAGUE LEADERS

Code:

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NATIONAL LEAGUE LEADERS               
AVG - Pete Reiser (BRO)                .329
HR - Bill Nicholson (CHC)        29
RBI - Bill Nicholson (CHC)        109
SB - Sam Jethroe (BSN)                28
                               
W - Whit Wyatt (BRO)                17
ERA - Jim Tobin (BSN)                2.73
K - Warren Spahn (BSN)                124
SV - Jim Hughes (BRO)                20
                               
AMERICAN LEAGUE LEADERS               
AVG - Jeff Heath (CLE)                .338
      Roy Weatherly (CLE)       
HR - Jimmie Foxx (BOS)                27
RBI - Jimmie Foxx (BOS)                99
SB - Walt Chipple (WSH)                21
                               
W - Tex Hughson (BOS)                15
    Jim Bagby (CLE)               
    Lefty Gomez (NYY)               
    Red Ruffing (NYY)               
    Early Wynn (WSH)               
ERA - Bill Butland (BOS)        2.41
K - Hal Newhouser (DET)                140
SV - Tom Ferrick (CLE)                15

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MILESTONES

Code:

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LF Charlie Keller (NYY): Hit for the Cycle (6/30)
2B Charlie Gehringer (CHW): 3000th Hit (7/5)
1B Jimmie Foxx (BOS): 2000th RBI (7/21)
SS Arky Vaughan (BRO): 2000th Hit (7/23)

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MAJOR INJURIES

Code:

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7/10: LF Ted Williams (BOS) out for the season with a broken fibula (Final Stats: .333, 25 HR, 69 RBI).
7/14: LF Bob Johnson (NYG) out 5 weeks with a broken foot.
7/17: CF Sam Jethroe (BSN) out 2 weeks with a chipped knee cap.
7/21: SP Red Ruffing (NYY) out for the season with a broken wrist (Final Stats: 15-4, 2.73 ERA, 91 K, 4 SO).
7/22: C Bill Dickey (NYY) out 1 month with a stress fracture.

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NOTABLE RETIREMENTS

C Gus Mancuso retired. Mancuso played 14 seasons in the Majors for 5 different teams: the Cardinals (1928, 1930-32, 1941-42), the Giants (1933-38), the Cubs (1939), the Dodgers (1940), and the Red Sox (1943). He played in 2 All-Star Games: 1935 and 1937. His career line: .275, 50 HR, 478 RBI.

I see what you mean about Cincy: They want that number one pick BAD.

Regarding Doby....well, the scouting numbers don't agree with you, but that doesn't mean anything. He should be able to start helping Philly almost immediately!

*Sniff sniff* And to think that PotatoOfCouch was once a new user that nobody knew. Now he's writing a dynasty that ranks up near Cat's. I'm so proud of him! Luckily I taught him everything I know.

CatKnight: I said it at the beginning of the year, and you'll hear it again before the end: the Reds are awful.

Coach Owens: Thanks for the high praise! And for all the pointers! Thank goodness I took such detailed notes!

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/6...ribblesma9.jpg

AUGUST 1

Well, we certainly got top billing.

“PHILLIES DEAL FOR DOBY”, screamed the Philadelphia Inquirer.
“WALSH PULLS DOBY OUT OF HAT AT DEADLINE”, proclaimed the Philadelphia Record.
“DOBY JOINS PHILLIES, TEAM INTEGRATES”, shouted the Philadelphia Tribune, the primarily black paper.
“PHILS GIVE UP ON SEASON”, lamented the Philadelphia Bulletin. I never liked them. They may be the biggest game in town, but they’re always so negative.

No reporting about our big win, though.

The fervor was so huge, that I decided to hold a press conference at Shibe Park this afternoon, introducing Larry to the Philadelphia media.

I got to speak with our new centerfielder before the presser. For someone who’s only 19, he’s a very self-motivated, very charismatic young man. I have no doubts now that he’ll be able to withstand the pressure of carrying a whole race of people on his back.

The biggest problem we had was with uniform numbers. Larry wanted to wear #14, but that belonged to Gil Hodges. Larry just switched to Cecil Tyson’s old #23.

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 1943
PART I

August 2-5: Philadelphia Phillies (46-66, 7th, 22 GB) at St. Louis Cardinals (68-44, T-1st, 3 GA)

2 – Andy Seminick’s 2nd-inning grand slam is enough to propel Jack Kraus to his 14th win of the season. Ike Pearson pitches a perfect ninth for the save.
Phillies 6, Cardinals 3
W: Jack Kraus (14-9) L: Mort Cooper (16-6) SV: Ike Pearson (4)
HR: Andy Seminick (12)

The Dodgers beat the Reds 3-1, giving them a 1 game lead over the Cardinals in the National League. Meanwhile, the Reds have now lost 12 straight games.

3 – Ike Pearson faced one batter: Frank McCormick. McCormick took Pearson deep for a walk-off home run in the 11th inning, giving the Cardinals the win.
Cardinals 4, Phillies 3
W: Clyde Shoun (5-3) L: Ike Pearson (0-2)

The Reds’ ineptitude continues, as they lose their 13th straight game.

4 – Larry Doby’s first home run as a Phillie is not enough to propel the visitors to victory, as Harry Gumbert spins a dandy (8.1 IP, 7 H, 2 ER).
Cardinals 4, Phillies 2
W: Harry Gumbert (9-12) L: Dick Mauney (9-7) SV: Gordon Maltzberger (13)
HR: Larry Doby (1)

Guess who lost again? The Reds! That’s now 14 straight for the Cincinnati nine.

5 – Of all the Cardinals pitchers, Johnny Beazley is the one that shuts us out. Go figure. Gene Lambert just doesn’t have the stuff to match the Beazer.
Cardinals 4, Phillies 0
W: Johnny Beazley (2-0) L: Gene Lambert (2-7)

The Yankees shut out the Indians today, 7-0. This win officially eliminates the Philadelphia Athletics from pennant contention in the AL. On the NL side, the Reds finally won a game. The loss drops the Dodgers back into a tie with the Cardinals with 38 games to play. The Cubs sit 3 games back, and the Giants are 7 games off the pace.

August 6-9: Philadelphia Phillies (47-69, 7th, 24 GB) at Brooklyn Dodgers (71-45, T-1st, 3 GA)

6 – Jackie Robinson goes 4-4 with 2 doubles and home run for 5 RBI, as Johnny Vander Meer goes the distance, and the Dodgers dominate the Phillies from the start.
Dodgers 8, Phillies 2
W: Johnny Vander Meer (9-9) L: Jack Kraus (14-10)
HR: Andy Seminick (13)

The Indians beat the Browns 3-0, mathematically eliminating the St. Louis Browns from pennant contention.

7 – Dom Dallessandro’s pinch-hit single plates Andy Seminick with the go-ahead run in the top of the 9th inning, as the Phillies manage to steal one from the Dodgers.
Phillies 6, Dodgers 5
W: Tommy Hughes (9-6) L: Les Webber (10-2) SV: Ike Pearson (5)
HR: Chuck Klein (10), Ron Northey (7)

The Cardinals beat the Reds 7-4. This moves the Cards into sole possession of first place in the NL, while it eliminates the Cincinnati Reds from pennant contention.

8 – The Dodgers rally for 2 runs in the bottom of the eighth inning against Dick Mauney, who takes the hard-luck loss.
Dodgers 4, Phillies 3
W: Les Webber (11-2) L: Dick Mauney (9-8)
HR: Larry Doby (2)

9 – Wow. That’s all that can be used to describe this game. An 18-inning classic, where the Dodgers push the winning run across after the team’s play 2 for the price of 1. A reward is deserving for Joe Page, who despite the loss, went 4.1 innings of relief. The bullpen as a whole was fantastic, allowing only the one (winning) run in 12 innings of work. Bravo.
Dodgers 4, Phillies 3 (18)
W: Max Macon (1-3) L: Joe Page (3-5)

The Athletics beat the White Sox 12-3, eliminating the Chicago White Sox from pennant contention.

What had the makings of a four-team race has quickly turned into a showdown between the Dodgers and the Cardinals. The Redbirds have a 1 game lead, but have to play the 4th-place Giants, while the Dodgers play the Pirates.

August 10-12: Boston Braves (57-63, 5th, 18 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (48-72, 7th, 27 GB)

10 – Another close game, but Jim Tobin goes the distance, allowing only 1 run on 7 hits, outdueling Jack Kraus for the victory.
Braves 2, Phillies 1
W: Jim Tobin (15-11) L: Jack Kraus (14-11)

An 8-7 Indians win officially eliminates the Detroit Tigers from the pennant chase.

11 – Tommy Hughes pitches a complete game, but the Phillies can’t seem to catch a break as Warren Spahn dominates the lineup from top to bottom.
Braves 4, Phillies 2
W: Warren Spahn (15-9) L: Tommy Hughes (9-7) SV: George Diehl (12)
HR: Gil Hodges (10)

12 – The Phillies ride the coattails of a big inning on the way to victory, Dick Mauney’s 10th of the season.
Phillies 5, Braves 4
W: Dick Mauney (10-8) L: Al Javery (13-12) SV: Ike Pearson (6)

Andy Seminick will miss 2 weeks with a sprained thumb. Bill Peterman will replace him as he serves his stint on the DL.

August 13: Day Off

August 14-17: Cincinnati Reds (37-86, 8th, 40 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (49-74, 7th, 28 GB)

14 – The Phillies can’t seem to buy a win. A loss to the hapless Reds hurts more emotionally, but Bucky Walters doesn’t seem to care (CG, 7 H, 1 ER).
Reds 5, Phillies 1
W: Bucky Walters (9-11) L: Gene Lambert (2-8)

15 – Jack Kraus notches his 15th win of the season, and the offense wakes up from its recent slumber to provide enough support.
Phillies 4, Reds 1
W: Jack Kraus (15-11) L: Elmer Riddle (10-14) SV: Hugh Casey (12)

I sat down today with Phil Rizzuto and hammered out a nice fat contract extension. I signed Phil through the 1948 season for $16,000 per year. This avoids at least 1 arbitration hearing...

16 – You know what’s sad? Losing to a 2-15 pitcher.
Reds 4, Phillies 1
W: Ewell Blackwell (3-15) L: Tommy Hughes (9-8) SV: Walker Cress (7)

Tommy Hughes will be out 2 weeks with a stress fracture. We’ll find a replacement somewhere.

17 – Dick Mauney throws a 4-hit shutout, as the Phillies salvage a split with the Reds.
Phillies 1, Reds 0
W: Dick Mauney (11-8) L: Frank Dasso (5-14)
HR: Ron Northey (8)

The Cardinals won today, so the Philadelphia Phillies are officially eliminated from pennant contention. Maybe next year...

August 18-21: St. Louis Cardinals (79-48, 1st, 2 GA) at Philadelphia Phillies (51-76, 7th, 28 GB)

18 – I don’t know how we did it, but we left the tying run stranded at third base. So very frustrating.
Cardinals 5, Phillies 4 (12)
W: Gordon Maltzberger (2-7) L: Ike Pearson (0-3)
HR: Ron Northey (9)

19 – Why does Jack Kraus have to be so good? He needs to spread that to his teammates. Talent hog.
Phillies 4, Cardinals 1
W: Jack Kraus (16-11) L: Howie Pollet (10-9) SV: Ike Pearson (7)

20 – Johnny Podgajny throws a complete-game 8-hitter, and the offense explodes for 9 runs in an easy victory.
Phillies 9, Cardinals 3
W: Johnny Podgajny (4-14) L: Mort Cooper (17-8)
HR: Vern Stephens (11)

Both the Washington Senators and the Cleveland Indians lost, eliminating both from pennant contention. This leaves only the Red Sox (9 GB) to challenge the Yankees this season.

21 – Stan Musial’s 2 home runs and Harry Gumbert’s complete game are just too much for the Phillies offense to overcome.
Cardinals 6, Phillies 1
W: Harry Gumbert (12-12) L: Dick Mauney (11-9)

August 22: Day Off


23 GAMES REMAINING

Code:

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NATIONAL LEAGUE               
St. Louis        81-50        -
Brooklyn        79-52        2
New York        73-58        8
Chicago                73-58        8
Boston                63-68        18
Pittsburgh        61-70        20
Philadelphia        53-78        28
Cincinnati        41-90        40
                       
AMERICAN LEAGUE               
New York        93-38        -
Boston                84-47        9
Cleveland        69-62        24
Washington        69-62        24
Detroit                56-75        37
Chicago                53-78        40
St. Louis        50-81        43
Philadelphia        50-81        43
                       
RACE TO THE 1944 #1 PICK
Cincin. Reds        41-90        -
Phila. A's        50-81        9
St. L. Browns        50-81        9
Phila. Phillies        53-78        12
Chi. White Sox        53-78        12
                       
RACE FOR CITY SUPREMACY       
Phillies        53-78        -
Athletics        50-81        3

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AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 1943
PART II

Well, here we go. The stretch run of another long, arduous season. Can the Red Sox make up a 9-game deficit in 23 games? Who will emerge with the NL pennant? And, most importantly for Phillies fans, where will we pick next season in the draft? The answers to these questions and more start right now!

August 23-26: Philadelphia Phillies (53-78, 7th, 28 GB) at Cincinnati Reds (41-90, 8th, 40 GB)

23 – Bucky Walters pitches a complete game, and the Phillies offense just can’t seem to find their bearings.
Reds 5, Phillies 3
W: Bucky Walters (11-11) L: Marius Russo (2-9)

Ron Northey took a Walters fastball of his forearm, breaking the arm. He’ll be out for the season. RF Nick Goulish will get the call-up from AAA Utica.

Northey’s rookie season: .280, 9 HR, 45 RBI

24 – Jack Kraus tosses a complete game on the way to his 17th victory of the season, thanks in large part to Nick Goulish, who rapped a 2-run single to solidify the Phillies win.
Phillies 7, Reds 3
W: Jack Kraus (17-11) L: Elmer Riddle (10-16)
HR: Vern Stephens (12)

A Pirates loss and a Cardinals win officially eliminates the Pittsburgh Pirates from pennant contention.

25 – Gil Hodges had the game of his life, knocking in 5 runs, as Johnny Podgajny beats Ewell Blackwell in a match-up between two of the season’s losingest pitchers.
Phillies 6, Reds 3
W: Johnny Podgajny (5-14) L: Ewell Blackwell (3-16)
HR: Gil Hodges (11)

26 – Gil Hodges goes deep again, and Dom Dallessandro drives in 4, as Ed Hanyzewski survives a wild 9th inning to shut the door on the Reds.
Phillies 8, Reds 6
W: Dick Mauney (12-9) L: Joe Krakauskas (0-10)
HR: Gil Hodges (12)

The Redbirds have been red-hot lately, winning 5 straight, and extending their lead over the Dodgers to 5 games. The Yankees keep winning, and their lead over the Red Sox has grown to 11 games with 19 to play.

August 27-30: Philadelphia Phillies (56-79, 7th, 29 GB) at Chicago Cubs (74-61, 4th, 11 GB)

27 – The Phillies’ 7-0 5th inning lead seemed safe. However, the Cubs came storming back, scoring 9 unanswered runs in an improbable victory.
Cubs 9, Phillies 7
W: Paul Erickson (3-0) L: Marius Russo (2-10)
HR: Gil Hodges (13), Larry Doby (3)

It seems like we can’t go 3 days without another injury. This time, Dick Mauney will miss the end of the season again. His final stats: 12-9, 3.53 ERA, 100 K, 2 SO.

The Dodgers beat the Cardinals, pulling them to within 4 games of the Redbirds. The Red Sox manage to take a game out of the Yankees lead as well.

28 – We had this game won on three separate occasions. First, Ike Pearson can’t hold a ninth inning lead. Second, we leave the bases loaded in the 10th inning. Third, we score in the top of the 11th, only to have the Cubbies tie us in the bottom half. The Cubs win in 12.
Cubs 4, Phillies 3 (12)
W: Vern Olsen (3-3) L: Hugh Casey (3-6)

A Braves loss spells the end for the hopes of a cross-Boston Series, as the Boston Braves are eliminated from pennant contention. Meanwhile, the Dodgers take another game out of the Cardinal lead, cutting it to 3 games with another win against the league leaders.

29 – Phil Cavarretta knocked home 6 RBIs, including a grand slam, as the Cubs offense awakens and mauls Johnny Podgajny.
Cubs 11, Phillies 1
W: Paul Troughton (3-3) L: Johnny Podgajny (5-15)

The Dodgers take another game from the Cardinals trimming the lead to 2 games. The Bums look for the sweep tomorrow.

30 – Gil Hodges’ 9th-inning home run off of Dale Alderson proves to be the difference-maker, as the Phillies salvage their last game against the Cubs this season.
Phillies 2, Cubs 1
W: Gene Lambert (3-8) L: Dale Alderson (3-4)
HR: Gil Hodges (14)

The Dodgers may have just resurrected their season, as they complete the sweep of the Cardinals, pulling themselves to within 1 game of the lead. They might’ve unwittingly just brought the Giants and the Cubs back into play, who both picked up 3 games on the league-leading Redbirds. With the Yankees comfortably ahead of the BoSox, here’s how the NL stacks up with their remaining schedules:

St. Louis Cardinals: Leader (4 at Boston, 3 vs. Boston, 4 at Phillies, 4 at Chicago)
Brooklyn Dodgers: 1 GB (4 at Chicago, 3 vs. Chicago, 4 vs. Cincinnati, 4 vs. Boston)
New York Giants: 6 GB (4 vs. Cincinnati, 3 at Cincinnati, 4 at Chicago, 4 vs. Phillies)
Chicago Cubs: 8 GB (4 vs. Brooklyn, 3 at Brooklyn, 4 vs. NY Giants, 4 vs. Cardinals)

The Cubs have the toughest road, by far. The Giants have the easiest, although they can’t count on the Phillies for easy wins should it come down to the wire. They’re going to have to earn their pennant!

PENNANT FEVER! CATCH IT!*

*not contagious in Philadelphia, Detroit, Washington, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and some parts of Boston, Chicago, and St. Louis.

CONTINUED...

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 1943
PART III

August 31-September 3: Philadelphia Phillies (57-82, 7th, 28 GB) at Pittsburgh Pirates (62-77, 6th, 23 GB)

31 – Gil Hodges has been red-hot lately. In his last 7 games, he’s hitting .360 with 5 HR and 11 RBI. This time he victimizes the Pirates’ starter Bob Chesnes.
Phillies 3, Pirates 1
W: Marius Russo (3-10) L: Bob Chesnes (6-8) SV: Ike Pearson (8)
HR: Gil Hodges (15)

The Cardinals win, but so do the Dodgers and Giants. The Cubs lost to the Dodgers, so they fall off the pace.

Time for the September call-ups!
SP Dick Mauney (75/87) [85]
SP Charlie Ripple (74/91)
SP Al Gerheauser (80/88)
SP Jocko Thompson (77/86)
SP Andy Lapihuska (67/80)
RP Dale Matthewson (71/81)
C Bill Peterman (73/83)
C Bob Finley (75/81)
2B Al Glossop (72)
3B Ty LaForest (65/78)
3B Bert Hodge (66/73)
SS Jack Albright (62/82)
LF Johnny Blatnik (75/95)
LF Ed Sanicki (70/82)
RF Ron Northey (84/93) [47]

1 – Jack Kraus cruises to his 18th victory of the season, thanks in large part to Larry Doby’s 5 RBI day and (another) home run Gil Hodges.
Phillies 11, Pirates 5
W: Jack Kraus (18-11) L: Stew Hinds (0-1)
HR: Gil Hodges (16)

(THIS IS WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT! Gil Hodges is showing his true potential! Now I just need a ballpark that is more conducive towards hitting home runs... (Shibe Park has an 80 rating – 100 is average))

2 – Tommy Hughes gives up 8 runs in 7 innings in his return from injury, and not even ANOTHER Gil Hodges home run can prevent a Phillies loss.
Pirates 8, Phillies 4
W: Ken Heintzelman (10-12) L: Tommy Hughes (9-9)
HR: Gil Hodges (17)

3 – No home run from Gil Hodges today, but he did score ahead of Andy Seminick on the catcher’s go-ahead 2-run home run in the top of the ninth inning, giving the Phillies the win.
Phillies 7, Pirates 4
W: Hugh Casey (4-6) L: Harry Shuman (8-5)
HR: Andy Seminick (14)

The Giants are smoking! They’ve won seven straight and are now within 5 games of the league-leading Cardinals, who managed to pull 1 game ahead of the Dodgers with a big win. With 11 to play, here’s how the NL shakes out:

St. Louis Cardinals – 88-55
Brooklyn Dodgers – 87-56 (1 GB)
New York Giants – 83-60 (5 GB)

Remember that the Cubs play their remaining 11 games against these clubs. The Northsiders may be 10 games out of first, but you certainly can’t count them out yet.

The Yankees, meanwhile, have lowered their magic number to 2 games. They’ve also topped the 100-win plateau for the 3rd consecutive year, and the 6th time in the last 8 seasons. They’re also the first team in history to top 100 wins 3 consecutive seasons.

September 4: Day Off

September 5-7: Pittsburgh Pirates (63-80, 6th, 25 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (60-83, 7th, 28 GB)

5 – I forgot why I acquired Marius Russo in the first place. Was it to take up a roster space?
Pirates 2, Phillies 0
W: Rip Sewell (7-3) L: Marius Russo (3-11) SV: Diomedes Olivo (17)

The top 3 NL teams win, which means that the Chicago Cubs are eliminated from pennant contention. They’ll still play a large role in deciding the eventual champion, though.

The Red Sox lost, moving the inevitable Yankees pennant one day closer.

6 – Every starter gets a hit, and the Phillies explode for a 9-run 4th inning in support of Jack Kraus’ lead-tying 19th victory on the season.
Phillies 11, Pirates 2
W: Jack Kraus (19-11) L: Stew Hinds (0-2)

The Yankees won, so...

THE NEW YORK YANKEES ARE AMERICAN LEAGUE CHAMPIONS, AGAIN!

Updating the numbers from last season:
This is the Yankees’ 3rd consecutive pennant, their 7th in eight years, and their 14th in 22 years.

The NL’s top 3 all win again, so nothing changes there.

7 – A 14-inning thriller that the Pirates will win, thanks to a couple of crucial errors committed by Phillies call-ups.
Pirates 7, Phillies 5 (14)
W: Ken Gables (1-0) L: Emil Kush (3-6)

The Cincinnati Reds lost today, officially clinching the #1 pick in next June’s amateur draft.

The Cardinals capitalize on both the Dodgers and Giants losses, winning their game. This leaves Brooklyn 2 back and New York 6 back.

Now the Giants travel to Chicago to face the Cubs, the Dodgers host the hapless Reds, and the Cardinals travel to the world’s toughest place to play, Shibe Park! BRING IT, REDBIRDS!

September 8-11: St. Louis Cardinals (91-55, 1st, 2 GA) at Philadelphia Phillies (61-85, 7th, 30 GB)

8 – Gene Lambert holds the Cardinals to only 3 hits in 7 innings of work, but Augie Bergamo’s 2-run home run is one of them.
Cardinals 2, Phillies 1
W: Mort Cooper (20-9) L: Gene Lambert (3-9) SV: Murry Dickson (3)

The Giants lost, but the Dodgers won, keeping pace with the Cards.

9 – I decide to let Charlie Ripple have shot, and the kid didn’t disappoint, allowing only 1 run over 8 innings of work. However, this game would go long, and the Cards would push the eventual winning run across in the 13th.
Cardinals 2, Phillies 1 (13)
W: Gordon Maltzberger (3-7) L: Emil Kush (3-7) SV: Freddy Schmidt (1)

The Cardinals win kills another team’s hopes, as the New York Giants are officially eliminated. The Dodgers won again, keeping themselves 2 games back with 6 to play.

10 – Jack Kraus doesn’t disappoint in his quest for a 20th win, but a pinch-hit home run by Walker Cooper spells doom for the home team.
Cardinals 3, Phillies 2
W: Howie Pollet (12-11) L: Jack Kraus (19-12) SV: Gordon Maltzberger (16)
HR: Gil Hodges (18)

The St. Louis Browns, by virtue of their loss today (their 8th straight), have clinched the #2 selection in next June’s draft.

The Dodgers won again, but still can’t gain any ground on the Cardinals.

11 – Gil Hodges went 3-4, but the real star of the home finale was Andy Seminick. Our young catcher smashed two home runs and drove in 5, ending the Phillies’ home slate on a high note.
Phillies 8, Cardinals 3
W: Marius Russo (4-11) L: Harry Gumbert (14-14)
HR: Andy Seminick 2 (16)

With 4 games to play, the #3 pick in next June’s draft is still up in the air. Three teams are vying for it, and all 3 have identical 62-88 records. The Athletics finish the season at the Yankees, and are the betting favorite. The White Sox finish at home against the Red Sox, and come in a close second. The Phillies finish at the Polo Grounds against the Giants, and are the “dark horse” in this sweepstakes.

The Dodgers won their 4th straight capitalizing on the Cardinals loss. With 4 games to play, the Cardinals lead the Dodgers by 1 GAME! The Cardinals finish with four games in Chicago against the Cubs, while the Dodgers host the Boston Braves.

CONTINUED...

September 13-16: Philadelphia Phillies (62-88, 7th, 32 GB) at New York Giants (85-65, 3rd, 9 GB)

13 – Ray Hamrick’s first ML home run was not enough to stop Mel Ott and the rest of the Giants lineup.
Giants 4, Phillies 3
W: Hal Schumacher (14-12) L: Emil Kush (3-8) SV: Hoyt Wilhelm (18)
HR: Ray Hamrick (1)

A Cardinals win coupled with a Dodger loss increases the Redbirds’ lead by 1 game. It is now a 2 game lead with 3 to play.

Both the Athletics and the White Sox lost as well, leaving things deadlocked at the bottom of the heap.

14 – Charlie Ripple tried his best. In his third career start, he goes the distance, but gives up 5 runs to the Giants offense. The lone bright spot: he may be able to say that he started opposite Carl Hubbell in the Meal Ticket’s final game (should King Carl retire, of course).
Giants 5, Phillies 3
W: Ace Adams (10-8) L: Charlie Ripple (0-1)

Both the Cardinals and the Dodgers lost. Therefore:

St. Louis clinches the pennant with 1 win OR 1 Dodger loss.
Brooklyn forces a playoff with 2 wins AND 2 Cardinal losses.

It’s as simple as that.

The White Sox and Athletics also lost today.

15 – Jack Kraus is denied the opportunity at a 20-win season by Johnny Mize and the rest of the Giants lineup.
Giants 6, Phillies 1
W: Freddie Fitzsimmons (13-12) L: Jack Kraus (19-13)

The pennant will be decided on the last day of the season! The Dodgers won, and the Cardinals lost, bringing the Dodgers to within 1 game of a share of the lead. The possible scenarios:

CARDINALS:
Win – and they clinch the pennant
Lose – and hope the Braves beat the Dodgers

DODGERS:
Win – and hope the Cubs beat the Cardinals to force a playoff
Lose – and they finish a close second

The A’s and Sox continue to lose! All three teams are deadlocked at 62-91 with 1 game to decide who will be picking 3rd next season.

16 – Well, we got shut out, but there is good news...
Giants 3, Phillies 0
W: Van Mungo (15-12) L: Marius Russo (4-12)

...the Athletics and the White Sox both won! That means that we get the #3 pick next June!

The Dodgers, however, crumbled under the pressure, losing to the Braves. For an extra measure, the Cardinals beat the Cubs, meaning...

THE ST. LOUIS CARDINALS ARE NATIONAL LEAGUE CHAMPIONS, AGAIN!

This is the 2nd consecutive pennant for the Cardinals, and their 6th all-time.

So this year’s World Series is a rematch of last season’s. It will begin on September 20, although the Cardinals have the home-field advantage this time. Will it make a difference? Find out after the season recap!

THE END OF YEAR RECAP

STANDINGS

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NATIONAL LEAGUE               
St. Louis        96-58        -
Brooklyn        94-60        2
New York        89-65        7
Chicago                85-69        11
Boston                75-79        21
Pittsburgh        68-86        28
Philadelphia        62-92        34
Cincinnati        47-107        49
                       
AMERICAN LEAGUE               
New York        107-47        -
Boston                98-56        9
Cleveland        84-70        23
Washington        77-77        30
Detroit                68-86        39
Chicago                63-91        44
Philadelphia        63-91        44
St. Louis        56-98        51
                       
1944 DRAFT ORDER
Cincinnati Reds (47-107)
St. Louis Browns (56-98)
Philadelphia Phillies (62-92)
*Philadelphia Athletics (63-91)
*Chicago White Sox (63-91)

*order to be determined
                       
RACE FOR CITY SUPREMACY       
Athletics        63-91        -
Phillies        62-90        1

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SEASON STATISTICS
Red denotes League Leader

BATTING

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1943 Batting            Team    G  AVG    AB    H  2B  3B  HR  BB    K  SB  CS    R  RBI  SLG  OBP
Kush, Emil                PHI  48 1.000    2    2  0  0  0    0    0    0  0    0    0 1.000 1.000
Klein, Chuck              PHI  146  .293  498  146  27  2  10  34  58    7  5  59  59  .416  .341
Dallessandro, Dom        PHI  122  .292  298  87  21  4  2  32  30    4  2  36  44  .409  .364
Rizzuto, Phil            PHI  146  .285  530  151  27  5  0  58  55  13  17  65  36  .355  .358
Northey, Ron              PHI  117  .280  411  115  25  6  9  37  32    3  1  52  45  .436  .343
Doby, Larry              PHI  42  .275  160  44  5  4  3  20  13    3  2  20  24  .413  .363
Stephens, Vern            PHI  144  .274  584  160  31  6  12  47  71    3  2  69  72  .409  .329
Livingston, Mickey        PHI  44  .270  115  31  4  0  0  11  15    1  0  13  13  .304  .333
Hamrick, Ray              PHI  49  .261  157  41  1  1  1  18  16    5  1  10    9  .299  .337
Hodges, Gil              PHI  143  .246  483  119  18  3  18  78  56    9  2  69  74  .408  .352
Mauney, Dick              PHI  30  .232    69  16  2  0  0    0  18    0  1    4    3  .261  .232
Goulish, Nick            PHI  17  .227    22    5  1  0  0    1    2    0  0    2    3  .273  .261
Seminick, Andy            PHI  132  .223  449  100  10  3  16  57  56    0  0  53  58  .365  .318
Murtaugh, Danny          PHI  101  .217  267  58  11  1  0  33  32    8  3  24  15  .266  .308
Wasdell, Jimmy            PHI  45  .206    63  13  1  0  0    7    9    0  1    2    4  .222  .286
Marnie, Harry            PHI  99  .205  239  49  5  1  0  11  37    3  0  27  16  .234  .249
Page, Joe                PHI  34  .200    5    1  0  0  0    0    1    0  0    0    0  .200  .200
Podgajny, Johnny          PHI  24  .192    52  10  2  0  0    1  14    0  0    5    3  .231  .208
Lambert, Gene            PHI  19  .175    40    7  2  0  0    1    9    0  0    3    2  .225  .195
Ripple, Charlie          PHI    2  .167    6    1  1  0  0    0    2    0  0    0    0  .333  .167
Blatnik, Johnny          PHI    6  .143    14    2  2  0  0    1    2    0  0    0    1  .286  .200
Gerheauser, Al            PHI  11  .136    22    3  0  0  0    0    3    0  0    2    1  .136  .136
Murphy, Ed                PHI  16  .125    16    2  0  0  0    0    2    0  0    2    0  .125  .125
Russo, Marius            PHI  25  .109    46    5  1  0  0    1  13    0  0    3    2  .130  .128
Kraus, Jack              PHI  38  .101    89    9  2  0  0    4  26    0  0    6    8  .124  .138
Hughes, Tommy            PHI  24  .071    56    4  0  0  0    0  19    0  0    1    2  .071  .071
Peterman, Bill            PHI    4  .000    4    0  0  0  0    0    1    0  0    0    0  .000  .000
Hodge, Bert              PHI    1  .000    1    0  0  0  0    0    0    0  0    0    0  .000  .000
Glossop, Al              PHI    5  .000    3    0  0  0  0    0    0    0  0    0    0  .000  .000
Sanicki, Ed              PHI    1  .000    0    0  0  0  0    1    0    0  0    0    0  .000 1.000
Albright, Jack            PHI    1  .000    1    0  0  0  0    0    0    0  0    0    0  .000  .000
Casey, Hugh              PHI  51  .000    2    0  0  0  0    1    2    0  0    0    0  .000  .333
Masterson, Paul          PHI  10  .000    2    0  0  0  0    0    1    0  0    0    0  .000  .000

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PITCHING

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1943 Pitching            Team    IP  ERA    G  GS  W  L  SV    K  BB  R/9
Kush, Emil                PHI  75.0  2.04  48  0  3  8  2  37  32 10.80
Casey, Hugh              PHI  77.2  2.09  51  0  4  6  12  28  32 10.20
Kraus, Jack              PHI  272.1  3.17  38  38  19  13  0  79  84 11.70
Ripple, Charlie          PHI  16.0  3.38    2  2  0  1  0  10    5 10.69
Mauney, Dick              PHI  214.0  3.53  30  30  12  9  0  100  70 11.69
Hughes, Tommy            PHI  180.2  3.74  24  24  9  9  0  76  59 11.86
Pearson, Ike              PHI  22.0  4.09  17  0  0  3  8    5    5  8.59
Page, Joe                PHI  59.0  4.27  34  0  3  5  1  31  38 14.95
Masterson, Paul          PHI  22.0  4.50  10  1  0  1  1  11  13 14.73
Lambert, Gene            PHI  130.1  4.70  19  19  3  9  0  85  65 13.19
Podgajny, Johnny          PHI  168.0  4.71  24  24  5  15  0  52  81 14.09
Russo, Marius            PHI  151.2  5.04  25  25  4  12  0  72  79 14.84
Hanyzewski, Ed            PHI  33.0  5.45  28  0  1  1  0  14  15 13.64
Gerheauser, Al            PHI  64.2  6.82  11  8  1  7  0  27  41 17.12
Matthewson, Dale          PHI    6.1  9.95    4  0  0  1  0    5    5 24.16

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LEAGUE LEADERS

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NATIONAL LEAGUE LEADERS               
AVG - Joe Medwick (BRO)                .329
HR - Bill Nicholson (CHC)        36
    Ralph Kiner (PIT)               
RBI - Bill Nicholson (CHC)        131
SB - Sam Jethroe (BSN)                36
                               
W - Whit Wyatt (BRO)                20
    Mort Cooper (STL)               
ERA - Jim Tobin (BSN)                2.58
K - Warren Spahn (BSN)                175
SV - Jim Hughes (BRO)                23
                               
AMERICAN LEAGUE LEADERS               
AVG - Jeff Heath (CLE)                .335
      Mickey Vernon (WSH)       
HR - Jimmie Foxx (BOS)                31
RBI - Jimmie Foxx (BOS)                124
SB - Walt Chipple (WSH)                27
                               
W - Lefty Gomez (NYY)                22
ERA - Tiny Bonham (NYY)                2.13
K - Hal Newhouser (DET)                187
SV - Tom Ferrick (CLE)                21

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MILESTONES

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2B Charlie Gehringer (CHW): 1500th RBI (8/7)
C Bill Dickey (NYY): 2000th Hit (8/28)

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MAJOR INJURIES

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8/8: C Ernie Lombardi (CLE) out for the season with a broken leg (.295, 13 HR, 69 RBI).
8/15: LF Andy Pafko (CHC) out for the season with a separated shoulder (.281, 19 HR, 72 RBI).
8/20: SP Lon Warneke (STL) out 2 weeks with a strained knee.
8/27: CF Terry Moore (STL) out for the season with a broken foot (.268, 4 HR, 40 RBI).
9/7: CF Sam Jethroe (BSN) out for the season with a broken ankle (.210, 15 HR, 43 RBI).
9/10: SP Early Wynn (WSH) out for the season with a stress fracture (18-9, 2.77 ERA, 155 K).

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NOTABLE RETIREMENTS

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8/20: LF George Selkirk
        1934-1943: New York Yankees
        2-time All-Star (1936, 1939)
        6-time World Champion
        .289, 109 HR, 592 RBI in 9 seasons

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COMING UP NEXT: World Series Preview

1943 WORLD SERIES PREVIEW

1943 AL CHAMPION NEW YORK YANKEES
C Bill Dickey - .256, 8 HR, 31 RBI
1B Oscar Grimes - .235, 5 HR, 30 RBI
2B Joe Gordon - .244, 15 HR, 94 RBI
3B Harlond Clift - .302, 11 HR, 80 RBI
SS Pee Wee Reese - .287, 7 HR, 58 RBI
LF Charlie Keller - .310, 29 HR, 97 RBI
CF Joe DiMaggio - .307, 19 HR, 118 RBI
RF Tommy Henrich - .266, 8 HR, 75 RBI

SP1 Lefty Gomez – 22-5, 2.54 ERA, 180 K
SP2 Tiny Bonham – 11-2, 2.13 ERA, 50 K
SP3 Atley Donald – 15-3, 2.81 ERA, 86 K
CL Norm Branch – 3-6, 5.19 ERA, 20/25 SV/OPP
SU Johnny Murphy – 6-2, 1.69 ERA, 7/8 SV/OPP

KEY INJURIES
SP Red Ruffing
SP Spud Chandler

The Yankees are not bulletproof. You’ll need more than one gun to keep them down, though. Joe DiMaggio and Charlie Keller spearhead the offense, while Cy Young Award frontrunner Lefty Gomez anchors an airtight pitching staff.

How They Beat You:
Power, power, power.
How You Beat Them:
Pitching around the heart of the order, and getting runs off their bullpen.

1943 NL CHAMPION ST. LOUIS CARDINALS
C Walker Cooper - .295, 11 HR, 58 RBI
1B Frank McCormick - .315, 5 HR, 40 RBI
2B Lou Klein - .224, 1 HR, 21 RBI
3B Whitey Kurowski - .285, 10 HR, 65 RBI
SS Jeff Cross - .205, 0 HR, 2 RBI
LF Stan Musial - .323, 31 HR, 130 RBI
CF Johnny Hopp - .299, 7 HR, 44 RBI
RF Enos Slaughter - .291, 11 HR, 90 RBI

SP1 Mort Cooper – 20-9, 3.09 ERA, 146 K
SP2 Johnny Rigney – 13-10, 2.86 ERA, 108 K
SP3 Lon Warneke – 13-4, 2.90 ERA, 70 K
CL Gordon Maltzberger – 3-7, 3.16 ERA, 16/20 SV/OPP
SU Clyde Shoun – 7-4, 2.55 ERA, 8/9 SV/OPP

KEY INJURIES
CF Terry Moore
RP Art Lopatka

The Cardinals are back and hungry to avenge last year’s World Series loss. Stan Musial put up another MVP-caliber season, and the pitching staff was the best in the National League from top to bottom.

How They Beat You:
Great starting pitching and solid offense from everyone.
How You Beat Them:
Frustrate Stan Musial. Without him, they’re nothing.

MY PREDICTION:
Yankees in 7 – their numbers seem to be down this year. Call it a hunch, but I say this goes the distance. Don't be surprised if the injury to Red Ruffing comes back to bite the Bronx Bombers, though.
MVP: Lefty Gomez – After his performance in last season’s World Series, don’t be surprised if Lefty does it again to the Cardinals. And if the series goes to Game 7 (like I predicted), look for him to win it.

1943 WORLD SERIES
GAME 1

The 1943 World Series would open with a match-up of two 20-game winners: Lefty Gomez (22-5, 2.54 ERA) would get the nod for the Yankees, while Mort Cooper (20-9, 3.09 ERA) would open for the Cardinals. If you’ll recall, these two squared off in Games 1 and 4 of last year’s World Series, with Gomez winning both times.

The Yankees tried to strike first. Pee Wee Reese singled, but was erased on a double play. Charlie Keller walked, and Joe DiMaggio followed with a single, but both were stranded when Joe Gordon flied out.

Lefty Gomez retired Jeff Cross, Johnny Hopp, and Enos Slaughter in order.

Cooper allowed a two-out single to Oscar Grimes, but got the next man to retire the side.

Gomez set down Stan Musial, Ray Sanders, and Walker Cooper in order.

Clift stroked a one-out single in the top of the third, but was stranded at first.

Gomez retired Whitey Kurowski, Lou Klein, and Mort Cooper in order.

Cooper retired the side in order in the top of the 4th.

Gomez set down Cross, Hopp, and Slaughter in order again.

Pee Wee Reese smacked a two-out single, but was gunned down by Slaughter when he tried to stretch his hit into a double.

Gomez got Musial, Sanders and Cooper in order in the 5th.

It was about this time that fans started to realize that Lefty Gomez was working on a Perfect Game. This is when a pitcher retires all 27 batters he faces in order, without a single one reaching base. There had never been one thrown in the World Series, and only been 3 thrown since the turn of the last century. Gomez was working on something special here.

Cooper got Clift to pop out, and sat Keller and DiMaggio down on strikes in the top of the 6th.

Whitey Kurowski walked to lead off the 6th. The perfect game was gone, but the no-hitter still had a possibility of happening. Gomez got through the inning without anymore damage, and the no-no was still intact.

Joe Gordon reached on an error and advanced to second, but was stranded there.

Gomez retired Hopp, Slaughter, and Musial in order.

Gomez was scheduled to lead off the top of the eighth inning. This led Yankee manager Joe McCarthy to an interesting quandary: does he leave Gomez in to try and finish history, or does he try and go for the win here?

I’ll wait to let you make your own decision...



[Whistles Jeopardy theme song]



In the end, McCarthy decided to pinch hit for Gomez. The pinch-hitter was loudly booed by the Cardinal fans, who wanted to see history. Russ Derry grounded out, but Pee Wee Reese singled and stole second. With one out, former Brown Harlond Clift doubled, scoring Reese with the game’s first run. Yankees 1, Cardinals 0. After a Keller strikeout, Joe DiMaggio plated Clift with an RBI single. Yankees 2, Cardinals 0. Cooper retired the side, but the damage was done.

Johnny Murphy came in to pitch for the Yankees. He gave up 1 hit in the 8th and another in the 9th, but that was all the Cardinals would get. They were simply dominated by Lefty Gomez and the New York Yankees.

Yankees 2, Cardinals 0
Yankees lead series, 1-0
W: Lefty Gomez L: Mort Cooper SV: Johnny Murphy

MVP: SP Lefty Gomez (NYY): 7 IP, 0 H, 1 BB. If only Joe McCarthy had left him in, we wouldn’t be wondering what might’ve been...
LVP: The Cardinals offense: 2-28 (.071) in Game 1

:sigh: It appears McCarthy made the right decision, but God that had to have hurt Gomez. I think Larsen's perfect game (which of course hasn't happened here) is the only no-no in post season play too.

CatKnight: I suppose it did pay off, but it was magical to watch. If only it had been a blowout...

You're right about Don Larsen, who's Perfect Game in Game 5 of the 1956 World Series is the only postseason no-hitter to date. However, that hasn't happened in this universe.

1943 WORLD SERIES
GAME 2

After getting embarrassed yesterday, the Cardinals were definitely out for revenge. They would send mid-season acquisition Johnny Rigney to the mound (13-10, 2.86 ERA), hoping to right the ship before they headed to New York. The Yankees would counter with AL ERA Leader Tiny Bonham (11-2, 2.13 ERA).

Rigney was jittery early. He went to 3-0 counts with the first three hitters. Fortunately for the Cards, only one reached base (on a single), and Rigney got through the first unscathed.

Bonham wasn’t as lucky. Jeff Cross led off with a single, and after another hit by Enos Slaughter, Stan Musial drove him home, giving the Redbirds their first lead of the Series. Cardinals 1, Yankees 0. Bonham bore down, though, and retired the side on the next pitch.

Both pitchers cruised along through the third inning, scattering hits and walks, but not getting into trouble.

Tommy Henrich led off the 4th inning for the Yankees. Henrich has a reputation for being one of the best clutch hitters in the game, so look for him should a big situation arrive. He smashed a triple to left field, and scored on a Bill Dickey RBI groundout. Cardinals 1, Yankees 1. Rigney allowed no further damage.

The Cards went down easy in their 4th. The Yanks were set down in the fifth.

The Cardinals fifth started much the same way the first did. Jeff Cross singled, and stole second. Slaughter singled again, but he plated the runner this time. Cardinals 2, Yankees 1. Musial singled, and Walker Cooper followed with an RBI double, plating Slaughter. Cardinals 3, Yankees 1. It should be noted the Yankee shortstop Pee Wee Reese appeared to hang on to the ball a little longer than usual, as though he was hesitant about throwing home. Slaughter beat the tag by inches, and scored a very important (as it would turn out) run. The Cards now had two runners in scoring position with 1 out, but were unable to capitalize as Bonham regained his composure and retired the side.

Both teams went down 1-2-3 in the 6th inning.

The Yankees tried mounting a comeback in the 7th. Russ Derry pinch hit for Bonham with one out and single. Reese followed with a single of his own, and Clift drove him in with another single. Cardinals 3, Yankees 2. They wouldn’t get any more, though, as Rigney rallied to strike out Keller, and got DiMaggio to fly out.

The Cardinals left an insurance run stranded on third base in the bottom of the 7th.

The Yankees left the tying run on third in the top of the 8th.

The Cardinals left the bases loaded in the bottom of the 8th.

Gordon Maltzberger was brought in to close out the game. “Maltzy” was another midseason acquisition from the White Sox and had done quite well as the closer since Art Lopatka’s injury. He set the Yankees down 1-2-3, and secured the Cardinals win.

Cardinals 3, Yankees 2
Series tied, 1-1
W: Johnny Rigney L: Tiny Bonham SV: Gordon Maltzberger

MVP: RF Enos Slaughter (STL): 2-4, R, RBI
LVP: SS Pee Wee Reese (NYY): the catalyst of their offense went 1-5 with 2 K, and he held the ball.

So close, Gomez was, so close. Boy, will there be a buzz when he takes the mound again.