The rivalry between Washington and Baltimore goes back many years, of course. Here is the first part of the 1885 version. Baltimore, managed by Billy Barnie played in the American Association while Washington found itself in the Eastern Association. In April Mark “Wud” Wood of the Sporting Life writes, “Billy Barnie of Baltimore has not …
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Nov 18
Anson Declines to Score
Washington is in its second year in the National League. It is 13 July and Anson’s nine is in town to play the Grays. The result a 4 to 0 whitewash of Washington. The visitors were completely shut out for the first time this season. The Chicago’s made desperate efforts to score throughout the contest, …
Nov 15
Washington Walks Away
Wednesday, 3 May 1899. Brooklyn is in Washington playing the final game of their series. Under the competent hands of Ned Hanlon the Brooklyn Superbas are off to a fast start. Thanks in part to the influx of talent from Washington they will go on to win the pennant. Good pitching, timely hitting, sharp fielding …
Nov 14
Foul Balls and Diamond Rings
It was customary during this period to return the ball to the club so it would continue to be used in the game. First two tales about foul balls in Washington from 1899. A little humorous by-play occurred in the grand stand in the eighth inning. An old ball was fouled into the seats, and …
Nov 13
Tom “Fido” Daly
Originally a catcher, Daly reached the majors with the Philadelphia Keystones of the Union Association in 1884, playing in two games (which for many years were erroneously attributed to Con Daily). After two years with the Chicago White Stockings, he played for the Washington Nationals in 1889 and hit .300. Daly stayed in the National …
Nov 12
Mercer Unbound
9 October 1899, Washington splits a doubleheader with the visiting Orioles, but Win Mercer is the story today. The second game lasted only six innings, and the sensational episode between Win Mercer and umpire Al Mannassau took all the life out of the local players, an easy victory going to the visitors. Dan McFarlan began …
Nov 08
Hoy The Gunslinger
This little tale was printed in 1899. Dummy Hoy had been feuding with Tommy Tucker. Tucker was boisterous and known for his antics. Tommy Tucker and Billy Hoy of the Louisville’s are not on the best of terms, though the enmity that existed a year ago is no longer as bitter. One night last year …
