Orth’s odd play helps the Senators beat Indians

July 7, 1903.

In the 5th inningSenators’ pitcher Al Orth was at third base after a triple to center field. Washington’s Charlie Moran hit a line drive that was caught by Cleveland first baseman Charlie “Piano Legs” Hickman. Unfortunately, Orth was halfway toward home and Hickman threw behind the runner. Unfortunately for Hickman, his throw eluded third baseman Bill Bradley. Given a reprieve, Orth headed for home. Unfortunately, for Orth, he had forgotten to tag up at third after Hickman had caught Moran’s line drive. Orth touched home plate, thinking that he had scored. At the urging of his teammates, Orth returned to tag up at third and took off for home again. Bradley finally ran down the ball in foul territory and heaved it in the direction of home plate. Somehow, Bradley’s throw eluded several Cleveland players who had gathered around home plate. The ball bounced into the seats, and Orth touched home plate for a second time. The unusual play broke a 1-1 tie and the Senators pleased the home crowd of 1,103 with a 5-2 victory. Orth scattered eleven hits and earned his 6th victory of the season