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RDL Sporting Gazette

EVENING EDITION
Vol. IX — No. 2
The Official Sporting Journal of the Random Debut League — Base Ball, Athletics and All Outdoor Sports
Vol. IX, No. 2FRIDAY EVENING, MAY 24, 1907Price ONE CENT
SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

RED SOX CRUSH BLUE JAYS

Bodie Powers Boston's Offensive ExplosionTwo Homers and Four RBI in RoutScore, 14 to 3
Reginald Hogtowne, Our Toronto Correspondent

TORONTO, May 24.— There was no holding the Bostons yesterday at the Rogers Centre, as Collins's men unleashed a torrent of hits and runs to trounce the Blue Jays by the overwhelming tally of fourteen to three. From the outset, the visitors set the tone with a furious first inning that sent the home crowd into a subdued silence; the Red Sox bashed out four runs before the local players could find their footing, with Bodie leading the charge in spectacular fashion.

The first inning alone saw Enrique Hernández’s deft single followed by a costly error in the outer garden that allowed Bodie to scamper home unmolested. Kenney followed with a ground out that sent another run across, and then Snider and Furcal each added safeties that brought the tally to four before the Blue Jays could mount any resistance. Bodie, who would go on to finish an astonishing four-for-five at the plate, continued to torment the Toronto sluggers, clouting two mighty homers—one in the second and another in the seventh inning—to complement a triple and a double, accumulating four tallies and driving in as many more.

The visitors’ bats refused to rest, adding a single tally in the second, two more in the fourth—highlighted by Bodie’s triple followed by Hernández’s sacrifice fly—and an explosive five-run outburst in the sixth that featured Duke Snider’s three-run homer, his second circuit clout of the campaign. The Red Sox poured on two additional runs in the seventh, sealing the rout with a commanding lead as the Blue Jays struggled to stem the tide.

The pitching contest was tilted decisively by the early departure of the Blue Jays’ starting boxman, Jim Archer, who yielded seven runs in just over three innings. His relief, Hudson, fared scarcely better, surrendering five runs in a similar span before the final baton was passed to Nunez, whose steadier hand held the Bostons scoreless in the last frames. Louis Coleman of Boston came to the rescue after Camp to take up the mound duties, allowing but one run on a lone hit over three and a third innings, complementing his five strikeouts with keen control. This marked Coleman’s second victory against one defeat.

The crowd, spirited at the outset, wilted under the relentless assault, with a single error marring the Blue Jays’ otherwise vigorous fielding effort. The weather was fair and the umpires conducted themselves with the usual impartiality, though the visitors’ superior hitting and baserunning proved decisive.

The outcome of this contest leaves the Red Sox firmly perched atop the American League, their record now an imposing twenty-seven victories against seven defeats, extending their lead to six and a half games over the Minnesota Twins. For the Blue Jays, the defeat adds another to their tally, and Toronto’s manager, ruefully summing up the day’s toil, admitted, "We got our butts kicked."

“Bodie Powers Boston's Offensive Explosion with Two Homers and Four Runs Batted In”

CARDINALS WIN IN FIFTEEN INNINGS

Sanderson Fans Seventeen in MarathonCubs Stopped at One RunLast Half-Inning Decides Game
Budd Wiser, Our St. Louis Correspondent

ST. LOUIS, May 23.— In a contest that stretched the patience of even the most ardent patrons of the national pastime, the St. Louis Cardinals emerged triumphant over the Chicago Cubs by a narrow margin, 2 to 1, at the local grounds, the game demanding no fewer than fifteen innings before the deciding tally was recorded in the final half-frame.

The Cardinals made their mark early when first baseman Ted Kluszewski sent a lone circuit clout over the garden fence in the second inning, providing the home nine with an initial lead. The visitors retaliated in the fifth inning, capitalising on a wild pitch to bring in their sole tally via Thairo Estrada. Thereafter, the game settled into a tense stalemate, each side fiercely contesting every inch of the diamond with steadfast determination and scrupulous fielding.

Scott Sanderson, the Cubs' stalwart slabman, was a spectacle of endurance and skill; he toiled for eight innings, striking out seventeen batters, a feat that left the spectators astonished, while allowing but one run and five safeties. His counterpart, Scott Elarton of the Cardinals, laboured admirably for nearly nine innings, yielding a solitary run on six blows, though five passes to bases on balls somewhat threatened his control. Relief came in the form of Mike Jeffcoat, who, over the last two and two-thirds innings, fanned six without surrendering a run, sealing the victory for the Redbirds.

The denouement arrived in the bottom of the fifteenth inning when shortstop Stephen Drew slammed a single that scored Tom Prince from second base, breaking the deadlock and sending the home crowd into raptures. The fielding throughout was impeccable, with neither side committing an error to mar the spectacle. The game’s duration tested the mettle of players and spectators alike, yet it was the steadfast persistence of the Cardinals that bore fruit in the end.

With this hard-fought victory, the Cardinals maintain their pursuit of the league leaders, the Giants, now trailing by a mere three games in the tightly contested National League pennant race. The struggling Cubs, though showing flashes of brilliance upon the slab, find themselves eight games behind, battling to regain their footing in the season’s crucial stretch.

ASTROS EDGE PIRATES IN THRILLER

Arlett Homers Twice but Falls ShortRowe Fans Fourteen in Losing CauseThree Lead Changes Thrill Crowd
Tex Spindletop, Our Houston Correspondent

HOUSTON, May 24.— The Houston Astros emerged triumphant in a heart-stopping contest yesterday, besting the Pittsburgh Pirates by the narrow margin of 5 to 4 before a rapt crowd at the Houston grounds. Right fielder Buzz Arlett was the chief architect of the home victory, sending two immense circuit clouts over the fences to propel his club to a thrilling final frame triumph.

The visitors struck first in the top of the initial inning as Bobby Thomson crossed the plate following Hank Leiber's deft double, placing Pittsburgh ahead, 1 to 0. Houston answered in the bottom of the fourth with a pair of solo homers from Arlett and Mandy Brooks, the latter his second of the campaign, thereby wresting the lead 2 to 1. The Pirates rallied fiercely in the fifth, sending three to the plate through doubles and a well-executed grounder for a double play that scored the winning run, placing Pittsburgh once more on top, 4 to 2.

Yet the Astros refused to yield. Doc Crandall blasted a two-run homer in the sixth to knot the score at four apiece, and the contest remained deadlocked until the ninth. With the bases empty and no one out, Arlett stepped once more to the plate and hammered a towering solo clout off the formidable Schoolboy Rowe, who had dominated the strike zone with fourteen strikeouts. This blow sealed a dramatic, last-moment success for the home aggregation.

Pitcher Bob Blaylock was summoned in relief in the final stanza and despite yielding two hits and one run, he struck out two to earn his fourth victory of the season, while the hard-luck Rowe took the loss, his record now at two wins against six defeats. The game was distinguished by three lead changes and spirited play that held the spectators in thrall until the very end.

The Astros’ triumph allows them to raise their tally to fourteen victories against twenty-one defeats, while the Pirates fall four games behind the league leaders. The contest bore witness to sparkling fielding, including a well-timed double play by the visitors, as well as three towering homers from the Astros, two of which came from Arlett. Pittsburgh’s manager Nick Bateman, rueful of the late reversal, declared that he would "probably toss and turn tonight" in reflection of the narrow defeat.

Pages of this number: 5. Entered as second-class matter at the post-office.
The RDL Sporting GazetteTHE GAMES IN DETAILFRIDAY, MAY 24, 1907 — Page 2

CARDINALS BLANK BRAVES IN ATLANTA

Hughes Fans Sixteen to Silence BravesAnother Shutout Amid Losing StreakCardinals Extend Winning Ways
Cole Peachtree, Our Atlanta Correspondent

ATLANTA, May 21.— The St. Louis Cardinals made no mistake in their journey to the Atlanta grounds yesterday, blanking the Braves with a decisive 3 to 0 victory that further darkens the fortunes of the home aggregation. Tom Hughes, the Cardinals' stalwart slabman, bore down with astonishing vigour to strike out sixteen Braves and allow but four safeties in a masterpiece of pitching craft.

The Cardinals struck early in the first inning when Dan Driessen, the far corner, sent a towering two-run circuit clout over the fence, setting the tone for the contest. The scoring was sealed in the seventh frame as Ken Berry delivered a sacrifice fly to right field, bringing home Eric Hinske, whose three-bagger had earlier placed him in scoring position. The Braves were never able to mount a threat, held scoreless and limited to four hits by Hughes's unyielding panmanship.

Hughes’s performance was a marvel, tossing nine full innings with only four passes issued and twice doubling up the Braves in quick double plays that quashed their advances. Despite the Braves’ stout fielding, including a pair of caught stealings by Bostock and Nelson, the relentless Cardinals held control throughout. Manager Bjorn Ironside remarked that "we barely made him work at all," referring to the visiting ace's command.

The result leaves the Braves with a disheartening eleven-game losing streak and firmly entrenched at the bottom of the league ladder, while the Cardinals extend their winning ways and remain well within striking distance of the league leaders. The Braves’ hardships continue to demand urgent remedy if the club is to recover from this woeful spell.

PHILLIES TOP BRAVES IN ELEVEN INNINGS

Henriksen Goes Four for FiveBraves Drop Eleventh StraightLate Rally Falls Short
Liberty Bellweather, Our Philadelphia Correspondent

PHILADELPHIA, May 23.— The Philadelphia Phillies triumphed over the Atlanta Braves by the narrow margin of four runs to three in a contest that stretched into the eleventh inning, the home fans erupting as Tommy Edman’s double sent Jerry Browne scampering home with the winning tally. Tony Menendez, who came to the rescue in the final frame, claimed the victory and now boasts a perfect record of two wins without defeat. The Braves, already beleaguered by a dismal string, saw their losing streak mounted to eleven consecutive defeats with this latest setback.

The game’s first run came in the bottom of the third when Milton Bradley doubled, bringing in George Van Haltren to put the Phillies ahead. Atlanta fought back with single tallies in the fourth, fifth and sixth innings, the last two driven in by sacrifice flies from Cole Tucker. The visitors appeared to hold the advantage at three to one until Bradley strode to the plate in the eighth and sent a two-run home run sailing over the fence to tie the score and ignite the home crowd.

Pitching was a trial for both sides; Mike Cuellar went six and two-thirds innings, yielding ten hits and three runs, while the Braves employed a quartet of boxmen in relief. Carl Bouldin took the loss, giving up the decisive double to Edman after a stout effort by his predecessors. Fielding was generally sound, though the Phillies were charged with a solitary error. The Braves showed grit but could not overcome their fortunes, as their skipper, Bjorn Ironside, sombrely declared that “the tide will turn.”

This hard-fought victory brings the Phillies to thirteen wins against twenty-two losses, keeping them from the cellar, while the Braves languish in last place with nine wins to twenty-six defeats, their position precarious indeed. The Phillies’ triumph offers hope for the home nine, though the pennant chase remains firmly in the grasp of the Giants and Cardinals.

DODGERS BEAT GIANTS IN SAN FRANCISCO

Martinez Fans Fifteen in Hard-Fought VictoryGiants Held to Three RunsDodgers Continue Chase
Cable Carlisle, Our San Francisco Correspondent
Pedro Martinez, whose brilliant pitching lifted the Dodgers to victory in San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO, May 24.— Pedro Martinez brought his formidable arm to the hill yesterday at Oracle Park and steered the Los Angeles Dodgers to a hard-fought victory over the home-standing Giants by the score of 5 to 3. The youthful slabman baffled the Giants' batsmen with a barrage of strikes, fanning fifteen in a masterful eight innings that left the Giants chasing shadows more often than not.

The Dodgers seized command in the third inning, when Sandy Amoros opened with a single and promptly scored on Doug Rader's triple, which in turn brought home John Flynn, sending the visitors ahead, 3 to 0. The Giants rallied in the fourth, as Larry Doby doubled in two runs to narrow the gap, but the Dodgers answered in the sixth with Ben Paulsen's towering solo circuit clout, his seventh of the season. Doby struck back in the bottom half with his own home run, but the Dodgers sealed the contest with an insurance run in the eighth, courtesy of Jarred Kelenic's infield single that sent Amoros home once again.

Martinez's pitching was nothing short of superb, yielding only three hits and three runs, while issuing three free passes and fanning a remarkable fifteen batters. Jon Lieber toiled gallantly for the Giants, striking out thirteen over seven innings but was undone by untimely hits and long balls. The game was played cleanly in the field, with neither side committing an error, much to the delight of the gathered crowd.

The Giants manager, Jake Giants, acknowledged the visitors' fine work, remarking that "he made a lot of good pitches out there," referring to Martinez's masterful performance.

With this victory the Dodgers close the gap in the National League race, trailing the Giants by six games and showing that their pursuit of the pennant remains earnest and spirited.

How the Clubs Fared

THE WEEK'S PLAY, CLUB BY CLUB

Every Game of the Round, Filed Under Both Nines — Touch a Score for the Full Box
American League
Boston Red Sox9–2
  • at ChicagoMay 14–16
  • v. Kansas CityMay 17–19
  • v. MinnesotaMay 20–22
  • at TorontoMay 23–24
Minnesota Twins6–5
  • at New YorkMay 14–16
  • v. ChicagoMay 17–19
  • at BostonMay 20–22
  • v. Kansas CityMay 23–24
New York Yankees6–5
  • v. MinnesotaMay 14–16
  • v. TorontoMay 17–19
  • at MilwaukeeMay 20–22
  • v. ClevelandMay 23–24
Milwaukee Brewers6–5
  • at Kansas CityMay 14–16
  • at ClevelandMay 17–19
  • v. New YorkMay 20–22
  • at ChicagoMay 23–24
Cleveland Indians5–6
  • at TorontoMay 14–16
  • v. MilwaukeeMay 17–19
  • at Kansas CityMay 20–22
  • at New YorkMay 23–24
Kansas City Royals4–7
  • v. MilwaukeeMay 14–16
  • at BostonMay 17–19
  • v. ClevelandMay 20–22
  • at MinnesotaMay 23–24
Toronto Blue Jays6–5
  • v. ClevelandMay 14–16
  • at New YorkMay 17–19
  • at ChicagoMay 20–22
  • v. BostonMay 23–24
Chicago White Sox2–9
  • v. BostonMay 14–16
  • at MinnesotaMay 17–19
  • v. TorontoMay 20–22
  • v. MilwaukeeMay 23–24
National League
San Francisco Giants9–2
  • at AtlantaMay 14–16
  • v. St. LouisMay 17–19
  • at ChicagoMay 20–22
  • v. Los AngelesMay 23–24
St. Louis Cardinals8–3
  • v. HoustonMay 14–16
  • at San FranciscoMay 17–19
  • at AtlantaMay 20–22
  • v. ChicagoMay 23–24
Pittsburgh Pirates7–4
  • v. Los AngelesMay 14–16
  • v. AtlantaMay 17–19
  • at PhiladelphiaMay 20–22
  • at HoustonMay 23–24
Los Angeles Dodgers8–3
  • at PittsburghMay 14–16
  • v. PhiladelphiaMay 17–19
  • at HoustonMay 20–22
  • at San FranciscoMay 23–24
Chicago Cubs5–6
  • at PhiladelphiaMay 14–16
  • at HoustonMay 17–19
  • v. San FranciscoMay 20–22
  • at St. LouisMay 23–24
Houston Astros4–7
  • at St. LouisMay 14–16
  • v. ChicagoMay 17–19
  • v. Los AngelesMay 20–22
  • v. PittsburghMay 23–24
Philadelphia Phillies3–8
  • v. ChicagoMay 14–16
  • at Los AngelesMay 17–19
  • v. PittsburghMay 20–22
  • v. AtlantaMay 23–24
Atlanta Braves0–11
  • v. San FranciscoMay 14–16
  • at PittsburghMay 17–19
  • v. St. LouisMay 20–22
  • at PhiladelphiaMay 23–24

DIAMOND DUST

Brief Mention of the Week's Other Doings

Wicker whitewashed Milwaukee at home, 7 to 0.

Carpenter whitewashed Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh, 7 to 0.

Sale allowed Chicago but two hits at Chicago, winning 2 to 0.

Baumgartner allowed Philadelphia but one hit at home, winning 4 to 0.

Camp allowed Kansas City but two hits at home, winning 3 to 0.

Dravecky whitewashed Philadelphia at home, 4 to 0.

Trucks whitewashed Atlanta at home, 3 to 0.

Strider whitewashed New York at home, 4 to 0.

Hardin whitewashed Atlanta at Atlanta, 4 to 0.

Pomeranz whitewashed Pittsburgh at home, 4 to 0.

New York beat Minnesota at home with the winning run in the last half-inning, 3 to 2.

St. Louis outlasted Houston at home in thirteen innings, 2 to 1.

Touch an item for the box score of that game.

YANKEES BLANK BLUE JAYS

Lincecum Shuts Out Toronto with One HitTwelve Strikeouts Recorded
Manny Hattan, Our New York Correspondent

NEW YORK, May 19.— Tim Lincecum was masterful at Yankee Stadium, shutting out the Toronto Blue Jays with a single hit allowed over five and two-thirds innings, while striking out a dozen men and issuing two passes. Rip Russell's towering two-run homer in the first inning set the tone, and New York's slabman never looked back in the 2 to 0 victory.

TWINS NARROWLY BEAT ROYALS

Johnson Fans Thirteen in Close ContestMinnesota Holds Off Kansas City
Ole Millstone, Our Minneapolis Correspondent

MINNEAPOLIS, May 24.— Walter Johnson was masterful on the slab, fanning thirteen Royals as the Twins eked out a narrow 2 to 1 victory over Kansas City before a keen home crowd. The game was settled in the fifth when Bob Meusel lifted a sacrifice fly to right field, scoring Sean Burroughs and securing the winning tally for Minnesota.

The RDL Sporting GazetteFEATURES AND OPINIONFRIDAY, MAY 24, 1907 — Page 3
THE GAZETTE'S OPINION

BRAVES' LOSING STREAK DEMANDS SWIFT REJUVENATION

A Decade of Defeats Is No Mere MisfortuneThe Club Requires Firm Direction and Fresh ResolveFans Deserve a Team Worthy of Their Support
The Gazette

The abject plight of the Braves, now deep in the throes of an eleven-game losing streak, cannot be dismissed as a passing misfortune; it is a pressing calamity that lays bare the utter lack of leadership guiding the club through these turbulent times. Such a protracted descent into defeat bespeaks more than merely faltering fortunes; it cries out for a thorough re-examination of the forces at the helm, the wisdom of those entrusted with the care of the nine.

In truth, the Braves have ceased to be a fighting aggregation and have become, regrettably, the league’s easy prey. The eleven consecutive reverses speak not only to the failings on the field but also to the absence of a steady hand to inspire, to rally, and to restore the fighting spirit that once may have been present. The players, no doubt, toil with earnestness, but earnestness alone cannot revive a team soured by repeated disaster and the weight of growing despair.

It is the Gazette's unwavering conviction that no club can scale the heights of success without the vital spark of sound guidance and the injection of new blood to kindle hope anew. The Braves’ predicament demands an immediate and decisive course of action; hesitation only serves to deepen the abyss into which the team has fallen. The loyal patrons of the Atlanta grounds deserve a club that reflects their steadfast support, not a tale of endless failure that saps the soul of the faithful.

Let this serve as a clarion call: the Braves must seek fresh leadership and rejuvenation without delay, lest they remain entrenched at the foot of the standings, a shadow of a once proud aggregation. The season is young, yet the time to act is now, for in baseball as in life, fortunes favor the bold and the resolute.

BRAVES LOSING STREAK HITS ELEVEN

Morale Sinks as Defeats MountManagerial Pressure GrowsClub Looks for Swift Remedy
Cole Peachtree, Our Atlanta Correspondent

ATLANTA, May 24.— The Braves find themselves mired in a quagmire of defeat as their losing streak has now reached the lamentable figure of eleven consecutive games. With a woeful record of nine victories against twenty-six setbacks, the locals sit rooted at the foot of the American League standings, trailing the leaders by a full sixteen games and yet to claim a single triumph in their last ten outings. Such a series of misfortunes has cast a shadow over the club's morale, where once there was hope, now there is a heavy pall of dispiritedness.

From the batter's box to the pitcher's mound, the Braves have struggled to assert themselves. Notwithstanding the efforts of L. Bostock, who boasts the highest batting average in the league at a sterling .355, and G. Hamner, who leads the club with four home runs and twenty-one runs driven in, the aggregation’s runs scored tally stands at a modest 114, while the runs they have conceded reach the alarming sum of 171. The pitching corps, burdened by exhaustion, has yielded, with starters such as the right-handed Danny Salazar, who despite a valiant effort carries a poor won-and-lost ledger of two victories against five defeats, and Zack Godley, who has yet to secure a single win in twelve starts, despite his regular appearances on the hill.

The club's management and supporters alike are voicing growing concerns as the losing streak stretches on. The team's chief manipulators are undoubtedly under increasing duress, with calls from the local faithful for swift and decisive measures to arrest the decline. The once confident Braves, possessing a princely sum invested in their personnel, are now confronted with the stark reality that talent alone cannot secure triumph without the cohesion and spirit that kindle victory.

Fielding lapses have compounded the predicament, with some of the outer garden and infield failing to stem the tide of opposing safeties. The weather at the Atlanta grounds has been fair of late, permitting full attendance of spectators, whose ardent voices nevertheless fall silent as their club struggles to break the shackles of misfortune.

In sum, the Braves find themselves at a crossroads. The present sequence of eleven defeats serves as a clarion call to action, lest the good ship Atlanta founder further upon the shoals of despair. The outcome of this trying spell will likely determine the tenor of their season, and whether the club can rally to once again challenge for honours in the American League pennant race.

TWINS LOSE CATCHER GRAHAM TO INJURY

Partially Torn Labrum Sidelines Star ReceiverSeven Weeks Away from DiamondMinnesota's Defense Weakened
Ole Millstone, Our Minneapolis Correspondent

MINNEAPOLIS, May 23.— A heavy blow has fallen upon the Minnesota aggregation with the untimely injury to Charlie Graham, the club's stalwart backstop, who has been found to suffer from a partially torn labrum in his shoulder. This grievous affliction will impose a lengthy absence, with the medical gentleman pronouncing a layoff of approximately seven weeks. Such a misfortune cannot but impact the Twins' fortunes in the weeks to come, as the catcher has been a pillar of the team's efforts at the initial sack and a vigilant guardian of the plate.

Graham's condition was discovered following a series of tests conducted by the club physician, whose careful scrutiny revealed the nature of the injury that has so unkindly beset the veteran receiver. His absence means that the Twins must look to less experienced men to don the mask and handle the pitching staff, a burden not lightly borne given the rigors of the position and the importance of steady, wise work behind the bat.

The loss of Graham's sure glove and keen eye is felt not only in the club's fielding but also in the manner he commands the mound-men, calling the game with a sagacity that has served Minnesota well thus far this season. The recruits who now step into the breach will be tested sorely; it falls to them to uphold the standard set by their injured comrade, that the Twins might remain stout in their contests as the campaign progresses.

This journal judges the setback to be a most serious matter for the Minnesotans, whose aspirations for the flag are well known but now imperiled. The gap left by Graham's enforced retirement must be closed with great effort if the club is to maintain its standing among the contenders. The weeks ahead will show whether the Twins possess the depth and resolve to surmount this adversity and keep their quest for the pennant in vigorous motion.

AROUND THE CIRCUIT

News of All Sixteen Clubs by Telegraph
By Telegraph to the Gazette

MINNESOTA—The Twins battled through a hectic week, splitting their series with the Yankees and White Sox and eking out a pair of victories against the Royals. Walter Johnson's recent form has been a beacon, though the veteran slabman shows signs of wear. Gus Bell's bat blazed hot, while first sacker Frank Howard has chilled noticeably at the plate. Bob Grim also bears the marks of toil on the mound.

NEW YORK—The Yankees mixed wins and losses in a see-saw week against the Twins and Blue Jays. Tim Lincecum's arm has been a shining light, though the lad has begun to tire from his exertions. Left fielder Frank Doljack has been all but invisible with the willow, and Ad Liska's recent outings have disappointed the patrons. The team continues to seek steady footing.

KANSAS CITY—The Royals struggled mightily, dropping seven of their last ten despite flashes of fight, including a shutout over the Brewers. The club's bats faltered, with second sacker Michael Young and right fielder Byron Browne notably silent. On the mound, Randy Tomlin's arm is flagging, leaving the locals in need of fresh vigor to arrest their slide.

BOSTON—Collins's men remain the cream of the crop, rolling over foes with the steady hands of Ruth and Bodie, both slicing through rival offerings with marked success. Yet the club's mound staff shows signs of fatigue, with Carroll, Camp, and Coleman bearing the brunt. Howard Ehmke's recent struggles have been a rare blip in an otherwise splendid campaign.

TORONTO—The Blue Jays have shown sparks, balancing victories and defeats this past week with spirited contests against the Indians, Yankees, and White Sox. Alas, the pitching corps has been a source of concern; Archer and Hahn have faltered, and Archer's arm is notably weary. The batting displays have been uneven, leaving the locals yearning for greater consistency.

CLEVELAND—The Indians tread a middle path, winning just as often as losing in recent engagements. Buzz Murphy's fleet work in centre has been a pleasant beacon, yet the slabmen have faltered, with Jake Arrieta suffering from a prolonged slump. Dock Ellis's arm is flagging after repeated duty, calling for respite to restore his vigor.

MILWAUKEE—The Brewers inch forward, winning six of their last ten with stout efforts from their contingent. The batters continue to show merit, led by the steady Matusz, though his arm has been taxed of late. The club's success owes much to unyielding determination more than brilliance at bat or box, yet the Brewers remain in the thick of the chase.

CHICAGO—The White Sox have been beset by woes, losing eight of their last ten contests despite spirited play. The slabmen Warren Hacker and others have laboured in vain, with arms growing weary. Elijah Dukes of left field has been unable to find his stroke, compounding the club's plight. The locals must rally swiftly to avert further decline.

PHILADELPHIA—The Phillies have endured a grim stretch, winning but three of ten contests amid a spate of disheartening losses. Bright spots include Milton Bradley's stout work in centre and the steady arm of Todd Worrell, though the latter's recent toil has dulled his effectiveness. Pitchers Cuellar and Chen have struggled mightily, further stretching the pitching staff.

PITTSBURGH—The Pirates showed mettle, securing six wins in ten, highlighted by Cristian Javier's sterling mound craft. However, shortstop Johnny Pesky has been terribly cold with the willow, dampening the aggregation's spark. The arms of Trucks and Rowe have borne heavy burdens, with signs of fatigue apparent as the campaign advances.

ST. LOUIS—The Cardinals have been commanding, winning seven of their last ten, powered by Johnny Antonelli's remarkable proficiency in relief. The batting crew remains steady, though the arms of Martinez and Schott show signs of strain. The locals continue pressing toward the summit, needing only to sustain their admirable form.

SAN FRANCISCO—The Giants remain atop the league through a string of eight wins in ten, bolstered by the steady arms of Lieber and Miller. Joe Tinker's bat has ignited the squad, as has first sacker Chris Davis's power. Yet Lieber's arm bears evidence of overuse, and the locals must guard against exhaustion as their lengthy campaign unfolds.

LOS ANGELES—The Dodgers' recent surge, winning eight of ten, has been a wonder to behold. Carpenter's steady pitching and the bats of Rader, Barfield, Flynn, Outen, and Hays have combined to great effect. Still, the labours of Pedro Martinez on the mound have not gone unnoticed, his arm showing the marks of heavy demand.

HOUSTON—The Astros have stumbled recently, losing six of their last ten despite valiant efforts. Drew Pomeranz has been a rare bright spot amid the pitching staff, while Albert Belle struggles mightily with the willow. The arms of Warthen and Brown bear the weight of these trials, and the locals seek respite to revive their cause.

ATLANTA—The Braves' woes deepen with a calamitous string of ten straight losses. Though Danny Salazar's recent work on the mound has been commendable, his arm shows signs of wear, as does that of Zack Godley. The bats of Dave Nelson and Rajai Davis have been sadly ineffective. The club faces dark days unless swift change intervenes.

CHICAGO—The Cubs have fought stoutly, winning four of ten, with the bats of Chuck Klein and Mike Pagliarulo shining brightly amidst the fray. Yet Freddie Lindstrom's bat has gone cold, and the arm of Hooks Wiltse appears spent from frequent toil. The locals must find renewed strength to climb the standings as the season unfolds.

THE HOT STOVE

HOT STOVE HEATS UP THE LEAGUE

Braves' Woes Prompt Change TalkTwins Battle Without GrahamRed Sox Forge Ahead RelentlesslyDodgers and Giants Duel Intensifies
The Man in the Grand Stand

The Braves’ prolonged losing skid remains a matter for urgent concern, with murmurs that the managerial helm may soon see fresh hands; yet this journal reserves fuller comment for the leading editorial and turns its gaze elsewhere for this edition's dispatches. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Twins grapple valiantly with the absence of their stalwart receiver, Charlie Graham, sidelined by a grievous labrum injury expected to keep him away for the better part of two months. The club’s depth is now summoned to fill the breach, and it is whispered among the faithful that youngsters and seasoned benchmen alike are rising to the occasion, striving to keep the Twins firmly in the chase.

The Red Sox continue to blaze a trail through the American League, their vigorous willow-wielders pounding the sphere with relentless zeal. Even as one of their first sackers, Enrique Hernández, is held day-to-day with blurred vision following a recent plunking, the Bostons’ offensive engine shows no signs of ebbing. The aggregation’s batsmen parade a formidable array of fours and threes, making them the team to beat as the pennant race tightens.

In the rivalry simmering in the National League, the Dodgers and Giants offer a spectacle that stirs the passions of the local crowds. The Giants, perched near the summit with a mark of twenty-five victories against ten defeats, see the Dodgers steadily closing the gap after recent spirited showings. It is a well-placed person in Los Angeles who confides to the Gazette that the Dodgers’ slabman Pedro Martinez is displaying renewed vigour, and it bodes well for a stirring contest between these two worthy foes.

Turning briefly to the Royals, the club secured the services of southpaw Randy Tomlin on a lengthy six-year term, a princely agreement said to be the richest in the league’s history. Tomlin’s steadfast arm is deemed the cornerstone for the Royals as they seek to rise from their current station in the standings. Meanwhile, the Astros dispatch pitcher Matt Lindstrom to Lexington for injury rehabilitation, a move that invites interest regarding the club’s pitching future.

LETTERS TO THE SPORTING EDITOR

The Sporting Editor

To the Sporting Editor: The Red Sox’s recent triumphs seem partly due to the indulgence shown by umpires, especially in calling strikes. Has there been any official word on tightening the strike zone to prevent such laxity? — VERITAS, South Boston.

[The Sporting Editor notes that the umpires have maintained their customary impartiality this season. No changes to the calling of balls and strikes have been issued, and no favour is shown to any club, including the Red Sox.]

To the Sporting Editor: With Charlie Graham sidelined, the Twins seem destined to flounder this campaign. Are there any measures to shore up their catching corps during this crucial juncture? — AN OLD CRANK, Minneapolis.

[It is well understood that the Twins face a tough stretch without their chief receiver. However, the club’s pitching remains strong, and no official report indicates plans to reinforce the catching position at this time.]

To the Sporting Editor: The Braves’ prolonged losing streak surely must prompt league action. When shall we expect a change in their managerial or player ranks to halt this misfortune? — FAIR PLAY, Chicago.

[While the Braves endure a most trying sequence of defeats, the Gazette is unaware of any decisions impending from the club’s management. Patience and perseverance may yet turn their fortunes around.]

To the Sporting Editor: There seems some confusion in the calling of infield fly rules in recent Philadelphia games. Might the league clarify this ruling to avoid disputes on the diamond? — A LADY READER, Philadelphia.

[The Sporting Editor affirms that the infield fly rule remains unchanged this season. Umpires apply it according to established law, and no new pronouncements have been made to alter its enforcement.]

The RDL Sporting GazetteRECORDS AND FIGURESFRIDAY, MAY 24, 1907 — Page 4
Leading Batsmen
PlayerClubPct.
1Joe PepitoneCLE.394
2Lyman BostockATL.355
3Olaf HenriksenATL.346
4Sherry MageeMIN.336
5Chuck KleinCHC.331
Circuit Clouts
PlayerClubNo.
1Chuck KleinCHC16
2Fred BeckCHC11
2Chris DavisSF11
2Mark McGwireCHC11
5Mike PagliaruloCHC10
Runs Driven Home
PlayerClubNo.
1Chuck KleinCHC32
2Babe RuthBOS31
3John TitusTOR27
4Chris DavisSF26
4Enrique HernándezBOS26
Winning Twirlers
PlayerClubNo.
1Chris SaleBOS7
2Jim HardinSTL6
2Walter JohnsonMIN6
2Hooks WiltseCHC6
Stingiest Twirlers
PlayerClubAv.
1Chris SaleBOS0.62
2Tom HughesSTL0.93
3Tim LincecumNYY1.78
4Dennis MartinezSTL1.86
5Bob GrimMIN1.96
Strike-Out Kings
PlayerClubNo.
1Tom HughesSTL117
2Walter JohnsonMIN107
3Schoolboy RowePIT104
4Danny SalazarATL99
5Virgil TrucksPIT93

THE TIPSTERS' LINE

What the Sporting Men Are Laying on the Flags
Old Doc Odds

American League pennant, as quoted by Old Doc Odds: Boston Red Sox, even money; Minnesota Twins, 16 to 1; New York Yankees, 16 to 1; Milwaukee Brewers, 16 to 1; Cleveland Indians, 16 to 1. The field, 40 to 1.

National League pennant, as quoted by Old Doc Odds: San Francisco Giants, 3 to 1; St. Louis Cardinals, 3 to 1; Pittsburgh Pirates, 13 to 1; Los Angeles Dodgers, 8 to 1; Chicago Cubs, 13 to 1. The field, 40 to 1.

Prices are those obtainable from the sporting men of the Gazette's acquaintance and are printed for information only; this journal neither makes nor takes wagers.

THE HOSPITAL LIST

Players Laid Up and the Nature of Their Hurts

MAY 25.—Chicago White Sox: second baseman Pancho Herrera is suffering from a bruised knee, will be out a week.

MAY 24.—Philadelphia Phillies: first baseman Jorge Cantu is suffering from a stiff back, will be out 4 days.

MAY 24.—Philadelphia Phillies: shortstop Alfonso Soriano is suffering from a strained oblique, will be out 2 days.

MAY 24.—Chicago White Sox: second baseman Pancho Herrera was hurt being hit by a pitch. The club's physician has not yet pronounced.

MAY 23.—Boston Red Sox: first baseman Enrique Hernández is suffering from blurred vision, will be out 2 weeks.

MAY 23.—Philadelphia Phillies: shortstop Alfonso Soriano was hurt while running the bases. The club's physician has not yet pronounced.

MAY 23.—Minnesota Twins: first baseman Justin Morneau was hurt while running the bases. The club's physician has not yet pronounced.

MAY 23.—Minnesota Twins: catcher Charlie Graham was hurt. The club's physician finds a partially torn labrum. he will be lost for some 7 weeks.

MAY 22.—Philadelphia Phillies: first baseman Jorge Cantu was hurt while running the bases. The club's physician has not yet pronounced.

MAY 22.—New York Yankees: outfielder Ollie Brown was hurt while throwing the ball. The club's physician finds a strained hamstring. he will be out 4 weeks.

MAY 22.—Boston Red Sox: first baseman Enrique Hernández was hurt being hit by a pitch. The club's physician has not yet pronounced.

MAY 20.—Minnesota Twins: pitcher Eric Lauer was hurt. The club's physician finds a flu-like symptoms. he will be out 4 days.

MAY 20.—Atlanta Braves: shortstop Granny Hamner was hurt being hit by a pitch. The club's physician finds a fractured wrist. he will be lost for some 6 weeks.

MAY 18.—Milwaukee Brewers: pitcher Daniel Ray Herrera is suffering from a partially torn ulnar collateral ligament, it's a career-ending injury.

MAY 17.—Toronto Blue Jays: pitcher Bob Purkey is suffering from elbow inflammation, will miss 4-5 weeks.

MAY 17.—Boston Red Sox: pitcher Howard Ehmke was hurt while pitching. The club's physician finds a hamstring soreness. This is a day-to-day injury expected to last one week.

MAY 16.—Minnesota Twins: outfielder Rick Monday was hurt while throwing the ball. The club's physician finds a shoulder inflammation. He's expected to miss about 3-4 weeks.

MAY 15.—San Francisco Giants: first baseman Chris Davis is suffering from a bruised wrist, but will not miss any additional time.

CHANGES IN THE CLUBS

MAY 19.—Kansas City Royals: Signed pitcher Randy Tomlin to a 6-year agreement for a sum the club declines to name.

MAY 16.—Houston Astros: Dispatched Matt Lindstrom to the Lexington club to regain his condition.

MAY 16.—Milwaukee Brewers: Placed third baseman Bill Melton on the hospital list for a fortnight.

MAY 16.—St. Louis Cardinals: Placed second baseman Jackie Hayes on the hospital list for a fortnight.

The RDL Sporting GazetteADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICESFRIDAY, MAY 24, 1907 — Page 5
Small Advertisements — One Cent a Word
NOTICE—The Gazette's Pennant Contest: name both flag winners and the dates on which the flags are clinched. First prize a season pass; second prize two season passes to the Braves. Coupons in every issue.
WANTED—A first-class shortstop for a fast semi-professional nine in the anthracite region. Must be a sure fielder and willing to work in the breaker. Address 'Diamond,' care of the Gazette.
SITUATION WANTED—Experienced manager, lately of a club it would be unkind to name, seeks position with a nine that can hit. References on application; none from his late employers.
FOUND—In the grand stand after Saturday's game, one umpire's indicator, apparently never used. Owner may claim it by describing a strike.

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The Gazette is published on the evening of the last day of play in each week's round and is sold at one cent the copy. Back numbers may be had of the publisher at the same price.

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