The United Baseball Association: The New York Chronicle (1918) - Page 6

JetsIn06 · 06-20-2009, 05:36 PM

Brooklyn Re-Signs Mcgovern to Extension

BROOKLYN, NY. November 17, 1917 - The Brooklyn Titans have finalized a deal with All Star-caliber right fielder Dick McGovern that will extend his stay in Brooklyn at least 4 years and will pay out $150,312.

McGovern has a career .286 average with 695 hits, including 121 doubles, 74 triples and 19 homers, collected 310 RBIs, scored 375 runs and compiled a .367 OBP.

JetsIn06 · 06-20-2009, 05:38 PM

Star SP Signs Pact with Orphans

CHICAGO, IL. November 21, 1917 - Chicago fans celebrated as word of a signing became reality. Earl Ebert won't be pulling up stakes anytime soon, as he has signed a 4-year extension at a pay rate of $25,674 per annum.

Since he is widely seen as an integral part of the club, Chicago officials had to keep Ebert from jumping ship.

In his career the 30-year-old Ebert has put up a 2.45 ERA and a 110-79 mark and is widely considered to be one of the best pitchers in the game.

JetsIn06 · 06-20-2009, 09:27 PM

Squire Willey Becomes First UBA Player to be Sent to Europe

PHILADELPHIA, PA. December 3, 1917 - The first UBA player was sent to Europe yesterday to fight in the war.

Squire Willey, the first baseman of the Centennials, enlisted in the Navy and was called into service yesterday. More players are expected to be called into service soon.

JetsIn06 · 06-20-2009, 09:29 PM

Star SP Signs Extension with Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS, IN. December 10, 1917 - Carlos Burrell might be greedy, but there's no disputing his talent. The hotshot starting pitcher will pocket $52,416 after re-signing with the Blues earlier today, and will hang around another 4 years.

Some more financially prudent fans worried that the signing would burden the club down the road and might prevent it from being competitive, though many others were simply thankful that Burrell didn't bolt.

A look at his career stats shows Burrell has a record of 78 wins and 62 losses and a 2.70 ERA.

JetsIn06 · 06-20-2009, 09:36 PM

Emil Herr of Indiana Joins Military

INDIANAPOLIS, IN. December 9, 1917 - Emil Herr, right-fielder for the Indiana Blues, has left the team and will be heading to war for the U.S. Military.

He is the second player to leave his team to join the service.

JetsIn06 · 06-21-2009, 04:25 PM

Snooks McKay Still Available

NEW YORK, NY. December 11, 1917 - Apparently, Snooks McKay isn't happy with the offers he is getting from UBA teams this off-season.

He's the only high profile free agent still available, but he did struggle a bit last season, hitting .244, and perhaps that is worrying ballclubs.

BYU 14 · 06-21-2009, 06:27 PM

Nice touch adding the war angle, is it possible we could lose some of our heroes in battle?

JetsIn06 · 06-21-2009, 07:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BYU 14

Nice touch adding the war angle, is it possible we could lose some of our heroes in battle?

Sadly, Yes.

JetsIn06 · 06-21-2009, 08:05 PM

Peppers Sign Kephart to Four-Year Extension

NEWARK, NJ. December 20, 1917 - Happy times in Newark as the Peppers and star third baseman Warley Kephart put the finishing touches on a $131,016 contract extension that will keep the 32-year-old in town 4 years longer.

The signing is great news for Newark because players of this caliber are hard to come by.

In 729 games, Kephart has a career .277 batting average and a .420 on-base percentage. He has hit 12 home runs with 258 RBIs and 311 runs scored in his six UBA seasons. He spent two years with Chicago Orphans, three with St. Louis, and now he'll finally be able to call a place home for a good amount of time in New Jersey.

JetsIn06 · 06-21-2009, 09:27 PM

Truman Hashes out 4-Year Contract

BALTIMORE, MD. January 30, 1918 - Team officials triumphantly announced that the Terrapins and superstar catcher Reuben Truman have closed a deal that keeps the 32-year-old in a Baltimore uniform for another 4 years.

Truman will earn $120,816 as part of the settlement.

Over his career Truman is batting .256 with 99 doubles, 36 triples, 30 home runs, 332 RBIs and scored 343 runs in 693 games. He started his career with New York, but left for Baltimore last season and will now be there for a good while.

JetsIn06 · 06-21-2009, 09:31 PM

New York Signs Kutz...No McKay for Gothams?

NEW YORK, NY. February 1, 1918 - In a very shocking move, the Gothams have signed injured right fielder Baptist Kutz, a 32-year-old who spent his last four seasons with the Chicago Whales.

Kutz has put together a solid career thus far, but has been injured often. Many teams were scared to sign him this off-season because of an injured finger. He should be ready by opening day, but his history shows that he won't be the same because of it.

The bigger story, however, is the fact that the Gothams were favorites to land Snooks McKay, the best free agent available, who is also a right-fielder. Has New York given up on him? Perhaps Kutz is insurance and they still want McKay?

It has been a back and forth battle between New York and Brooklyn to land McKay, but the last we've heard was that the Gothams were in the lead.

JetsIn06 · 06-21-2009, 09:54 PM

Commissioner Eagan Reveals New Minor League Structure

NEW YORK, NY. February 2, 1917 - At the player-owner meetings back in November, it was revealed that a vast re-organization of the minor leagues would take place as a way to increase revenue and also give UBA fans around the country a chance to watch the league.

For the past six seasons, each club's minor league affiliate was places in the home city. So, Boston's three teams were each in Boston. While it certainly made it convenient for the players, fans had no interest in watching those games because they had the big league team right there.

The new structure will place eight teams in two leagues for each class of minor league ball.

Class A will feature the Northern League and the Atlantic League. Because this is the class closest to the big leagues, the cities will be placed relatively close to the parent club. A train ride from the mid-west to New York takes time and money, and with injuries, parent clubs want to get the youngsters to the team as fast as possible. Therefore, each Class A team will be located very close to the parent squad.

Class B will host the Pacific League and the Mesa League. The Pacific League, as you may have guessed, will feature teams on the west coast along the coast. The Mesa League will mainly feature teams in Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, and Utah.

Finally, Class C will host the Texas State League and the Carolina League.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 04:49 AM

Chicago Orphans Sold by O'Connor Family to Popcorn Magnate

CHICAGO, IL. February 2, 1917 - Apparently the O'Connor family is scared off by the uncertainty of the upcoming season. When the Orphans won the series in 1917, many believed Mr. O'Connor would officially hand the team over to his son.

However, it has been reported that the family has sold the team to the owner of Whittington Popping Corn, Mr. Pinch Whittington. The 52-year-old is known to be a rather eccentric fellow, and may be just what the league needs during these tough times.

Chicago fans need not worry, however, as Whittington is from Ridgway, IL and is a big fan of the Orphans. There is virtually no chance that he will move the team away from Chicago.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 04:57 AM

RF Mckay Settles on New York

NEW YORK, NY. February 4, 1917 - New York fans are justifiably excited today as the team unveiled their latest acquisition in Snooks Mckay. The 33-year-old is a big money player and will certainly have an immediate impact on the organization.

Some estimates have him making $46,626 over 3 years, though media representatives haven't been able to confirm the exact figure.

In his career Mckay has gotten 792 hits with a .292 batting average, scored 381 runs, hit 12 home runs and driven in 329. The veteran spent his first five seasons in Reading, then spent last year in Detroit.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 05:29 AM

Minor League Teams and Locations Announced

NEW YORK, NY. February 11, 1918 - The league office issued a press release yesterday with the locations of each new minor league team:

Class A (AAA)

Northern League	Aff.
Columbus Dukes	CLE
Rockford Rockfords	CHO
Allentown Rubes	REA
Kalamazoo Kazoos	DET
Fort Wayne White Sox	IND
O'Fallon Celery Pickers	STL
Topeka Kings	KC
Milwaukee Lookouts	CHW

Atlantic League	Aff.
Hartford Americans	NYG
White Plains Boosters	BRK
Edison Ponies	NEW
Reston Grays	BAL
Trenton Sailors	PHI
Lowell Browns	BOS
Albany Bisons	YNK
Richmond Blue Sox	WAS

Class B (AA)

Pacific League	Aff.
San Diego A's	CLE
Los Angeles Angels	CHO
San Francisco Seals	REA
Fresno Tigers	DET
Riverside Oaks	IND
Portland Reliance	STL
Seattle Seals	KC
Eugene Beavers	CHW

Mesa League	Aff.
Albuquerque Bisons	NYG
Phoenix Devils	BRK
Flagstaff Canyons	NEW
Prescott Coyotes	BAL
Santa Fe Packers	PHI
Las Vegas Foxes	BOS
Salt Lake City Sox	YNK
St. George Braves	WAS

Class C (A)

Texas State League	Aff.
Wichita Falls Giants	CLE
Midland Indians	CHO
Corpus Christi Bronchos	REA
Houston Buffaloes	DET
San Antonio Bears	IND
Waco Navigators	STL
Austin Hams	KC
Amarillo Exporters	CHW

Carolina League	Aff.
Greensboro Cardinals	NYG
Raleigh Bees	BRK
Jacksonville Bulls	NEW
Concord Tobs	BAL
High Point Rangers	PHI
Rocky Mount Pirates	BOS
Fayetteville Eagles	YNK
Asheville Leafs	WAS

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 06:41 AM

Opening Day Schedule Announced

NEW YORK, NY. March 15, 1917 - The 1918 schedule has been released, and while no one knows if the entirety of it will actually be played, opening day should encounter no problems. The two games slated to take place on April the 1st are:

Washington at Reading
Yonkers at Boston

The two match-ups should do a fantastic job of kicking off the new season.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 11:21 AM

President Wilson Opens Up 1918 Season

BOSTON, MA. April 2, 1918 - President Woodrow Wilson officially opened up the 1918 season yesterday by throwing out the first pitch in the game between the Yonkers Knights and the Boston Shipbuilders.

"Good afternoon, baseball fans. As we are about to begin this magnificent game, please remember the young men fighting over in Europe. Thank you."

It was short, but it got the message across to players and fans. This was just a game, and more important things were going on around the world.

Graveyard Cherry opened up the season for Boston with a six-hit shutout. He struck out ten, walked one, and kicked off his 1918 season with a bang.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 11:27 AM

Chicago Re-Signs Peel to Extension

CHICAGO, IL. April 13, 1918 - Chicago fans celebrated as word of a signing became reality. Ezekiel Peel won't be pulling up stakes anytime soon, as he has signed a 5-year extension at a pay rate of $34,275 per annum.

Since he is widely seen as an integral part of the club, Chicago officials had to keep Peel from jumping ship.

Peel, who is the career home run leader with 52, has been with Chicago since the league's inaugural season.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 11:38 AM

Titans Lose SS Dell

BROOKLYN, NY. April 18, 1918 - Brooklyn fans held their breath as Dummy Dell left yesterday's Terriers-Titans contest with an injury. After the game, the team's medical staff said that the 24-year-old shortstop had suffered a sports hernia while running the bases. It's estimated that he will be out 8 weeks.

Thus far this year Dell has hit .346 with no home runs and 7 RBIs.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 11:50 AM

Grays Gamble, Newark's Roy April's Top Players

NEW YORK, NY. May 1, 1918 - The United League Player of the Month honor has been given to Emile Gamble of Washington for a superlative month.

"I actually never wanted to be a pitcher," Gamble told reporters when asked who he credits for his pitching ability. "I was an outfielder until high school and on the third day of tryouts my coach came up and said, 'Son you couldn't hit a lick even if we put it on a tee for ya.' Well, that ticked me off, so I decided if I couldn't hit I wanted to make sure no one else could either and so here I am."

It all turned out for the best as the Washington starter notched a 5-1 record with a 1.57 ERA last month. He made 7 starts and struck out 22 in 63 innings.

When Michal Roy stepped up to the plate in April, he did it with confidence and today he was honored with the Columbia League Player of the Month award.

The young Newark second baseman posted a .406 batting average with no home runs, 17 RBIs and scored 19 runs. Roy also worked pitchers for 13 walks to post a .463 on-base percentage.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 11:55 AM

St. Louis Signs RF Mahoney to 2-Year Extension

ST. LOUIS, MO. May 3, 918 - Happy times in St. Louis as the Terriers and star right fielder Nelson Mahoney put the finishing touches on a $35,406 contract extension that will keep the 27-year-old in town 2 years longer.

The signing is great news for St. Louis because players of this caliber are hard to come by.

This year Mahoney has hit at a .279 pace and produced 11 RBIs, no home runs and scored 16 runs.

He broke into the league in 1914 with the Terriers after playing in five games with the old Washington franchise.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 12:01 PM

Kidder Twirls No-Hitter Against Wolverines!

YONKERS, NY. May 5, 1918 - In a seldom seen sight, Twig Kidder threw a no-hitter as the Yonkers Knights beat the Detroit Wolverines 4-0. In a dominating performance at Amark Field he struck out 6 and walked 1 while facing only 29 batters.

"He had great stuff out there," the Knights manager told BNN reporters. "Twig was a real gamer, a real competitor. He didn't give in to anybody out there."

This year Kidder has a 4-4 mark in 8 starts with a 1.41 ERA. He has given up 51 hits in 70 innings, struck out 21 and issued 13 walks. Opposing clubs have compiled a .203 batting average against him.

This is the third no-hitter that has taken place in UBA history.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 12:05 PM

Bennett, New York Sign 3-Year Pact

NEW YORK, NY. May 9, 1918 - Gothams fans were divided today as New York confirmed that the front office has signed Floyd Bennett to a 3-year extension at a rate of $25,662 per year.

While many were enthusiastically behind the signing, others worried about Bennett's age. He'll turn 35 at the end of the season.

In 1918 Bennett has compiled a 7-2 mark with a 2.22 ERA.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 12:52 PM

Three Players Called Into Service

NEW YORK, NY. May 16, 1918 - Three more UBA players got called into service yesterday. Pitcher Irwin Dunbar of Reading, catcher Tug Edward of New York, and center-fielder Adelbert Howland of Detroit have all gotten the assignment of heading to Europe to fight for their country.

Our thoughts and prayers will be with them, as well as the rest of our boys in Europe.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 01:12 PM

Cherry Hurt, out 3 Weeks

BOSTON, MA. May 21, 1918 - Clay Cherry and the Boston Shipbuilders got a bad break in today's game against the Orphans as the team confirmed he will miss 3 weeks with a sprained ankle. The Shipbuilders starting pitcher suffered the injury throwing the ball. The team doctor is confident he'll make a full recovery.

Season-to-date Cherry has rung up 8 wins and 2 losses in 12 appearances. He has an ERA of 2.24 and has fanned 63 batters in 88.1 innings.

JetsIn06 · 06-22-2009, 09:27 PM

New York, Newark Top Standings

NEW YORK, NY. May 24, 1918 -

United League Standings

	W	L	GB	G
New York	30	18	-	48
Washington	28	20	2	48
Detroit	27	22	3.5	49
Cleveland	23	24	6.5	47
Chicago	22	25	7.5	47
Yonkers	20	26	9	46
Reading	20	27	9.5	47
Boston	20	28	10	48


Columbia League Standings

	W	L	GB	G
Newark	28	18	-	46
Brooklyn	28	21	1.5	49
Indiana	24	22	4	46
Philadelphia	24	22	4	46
Baltimore	22	24	6	46
St. Louis	24	26	6	50
Kansas City	21	24	6.5	45
Chicago	17	31	12	48

JetsIn06 · 06-24-2009, 06:46 AM

Whittington Names Chicago Ballpark

CHICAGO, IL. May 25, 1918 - The ballpark formerly known as O'Connor Park officially received a new name today.

The Orphans, now owned by popping corn magnate Pinch Whittington, will now play at the Windy City Grounds. Whittington stated that he wasn't looking to advertise his name or his popping corn business with the stadium moniker, but wanted to honor his "favorite city in the world."

JetsIn06 · 06-25-2009, 01:56 AM

May's Top Players

NEW YORK, NY. June 1, 1918 - Each league announced their monthly awards yesterday, and here are May's recipients:

In the United League, the award was given to Hermann Howland, the first baseman of the New York Gothams. He hit .336 with 37 hits, 4 home runs, 20 RBIs, and 15 runs. Unfortunately, the third-year player tore an ankle ligament and will be out for the next 5-6 weeks.

The defending champion Gothams lead the United League with a 35-22 record.

In the Columbia League, the award went to 22-year-old pitcher Juan Longstreet. The Chicago native went 6-1 in May with a 1.48 ERA. He held his opponents to a .236 batting average.

Longstreet is 9-4 with a 1.99 ERA so far this season. His club, the Newark Peppers, are 1.5 games up on last years pennant winners. Newark has never finished higher than 5th place and Peppers fans are hoping they can keep the lead in the standings.

JetsIn06 · 06-25-2009, 02:11 AM

Newark, Chicago Deal Made

NEWARK, NJ. June 3, 1918 - The Newark Peppers are in first place and want to stay there. Yesterday, they announced a deal that will upgrade their team significantly.

The Newark Peppers have sent 20-year old catcher Douglas Judd, 20-year old catcher Bruce Bridges, 21-year old closer Jerry Gass, 24-year old starting pitcher Soloman Eastman and 19-year old starting pitcher Tuck Hanks to the Chicago Whales for 26-year old catcher Orson Sanford.

So far this season Sanford is batting .213 with no home runs, but historically has been a much better player. The 26-year old is in his 5th UBA season. His first two were spent with the St. Louis club. After the 1915 season, he was traded to Chicago, and he broke out there.

In his first season with the Whales, he hit .295 with 40 doubles and 6 home runs. Last year, his power improved, hitting 10 home runs.

This season, however, he was hitting just .213 and his team was in dead last at 19-39. Newark took a chance and certainly hope he gets back on track. Maybe all he needs is a change of scenery.

JetsIn06 · 06-25-2009, 02:22 AM

Sanford Shines in Debut

NEWARK, NJ. June 5, 1918 - In his first game with the Peppers, Orson Sanford impressed Newark fans by going one-for-two with 4 RBI. His hit came in the 4th inning with two on and no outs. He ripped one into the gap for a triple.

His other two RBI came on sacrifice flies. The first-place Peppers beat the second-place Brooklyn club 7-5.

JetsIn06 · 06-25-2009, 02:50 AM

Cherry Pitches Complete Game Shutout in First Game Back

BOSTON, MA. June 12, 1918 - On the 19th of last month, Clay "Graveyard" Cherry sprained his ankle while on the mound and has been out since.

But yesterday, he pitched a complete game shutout in his first game back.

Facing Washington, Cherry threw a 4-hit, 1-walk, 7-K game and led the Shipbuilders to a 3-0 victory. Unfortunately, the team is 25-40 and sitting in last place.

JetsIn06 · 06-25-2009, 03:26 AM

Philadelphia Have Lost Last 15 Games

PHILADELPHIA, PA. June 21, 1918 - In a stunning display of ineptitude, the Philadelphia Centennials have gone 2-22 in the last 24 games, and have lost their last 15 straight.

Before their last 24 games, the Centennials were in great shape with a 26-21 record. Now, they are 28-43.

JetsIn06 · 06-25-2009, 04:31 AM

Kidder Hurls 2nd No-Hitter of Season

YONKERS, NY. June 22, 1918 - Twig Kidder has pitched his second no-hitter, just one and a half months after his first.

On his historic day at Amark Field, Twig Kidder of Yonkers made good pitches the entire game, fanned 5 and had 1 walk. When the Shipbuilders hit the ball hard, they hit it right at someone for an out.

But that's how you get a no-hitter -- a lot of skill mixed with a little luck.

So far through the seven UBA seasons, there have been four no-hitters. But this is the first time two have occured in this same season, and it could be a long while before we see two in the same season from the same pitcher!

This year Kidder has made 19 starts, thrown 153.2 innings, fanned 47 batters and walked 33. His won-lost record is 9-10 with a 2.05 ERA.

JetsIn06 · 06-25-2009, 05:38 AM

Washington, Detroit, and New York Battle for UL Title; Brooklyn, Newark in CL

NEW YORK, NY. June 23, 1918 -

United League Standings

	W	L	GB	G
Washington	45	30	-	75
Detroit	45	32	1	77
New York	45	32	1	77
Reading	38	37	7	75
Cleveland	37	39	8.5	76
Chicago	33	43	12.5	76
Yonkers	32	42	12.5	74
Boston	28	48	17.5	76


Columbia League Standings

	W	L	GB	G
Brooklyn	49	26	-	75
Newark	48	25	-	73
Indiana	41	31	6.5	72
St. Louis	36	42	14.5	78
Baltimore	33	40	15	73
Kansas City	31	40	16	71
Chicago	30	46	19.5	76
Philadelphia	28	46	20.5	74


League Leaders

Batting Average	Michal Roy		0.372	NEW
Doubles	Gabby Elston		42	KC
Triples	Dee Higgins		30	DET
Home Runs	Ezekiel Peel		12	CHI
Runs Batted In	Pierre Fisk		103	BRK
Stolen Bases	Bruce Magee		69	CLE

Earned Run Average	Theo Murrell		1.94	BRK
Wins	Emile Gamble		27	WAS
Strikeouts	Ed Gale		270	NY

JetsIn06 · 06-25-2009, 05:50 AM

Top Two United League Clubs Lose Player to Injury

WASHINGTON, DC. June 27, 1918 - In one day, the top two teams battling for the United League Pennant lost key players to injury.

The Washington Grays lost Forest Goldsmith.

"I'm frustrated right now," said second baseman Forest Goldsmith. "I can't help this team by sitting on the bench or in the training room." Unfortunately for the Grays, that's where he will be spending the next 7 weeks. Goldsmith suffered a bruised kneecap inyesterday's game against New York while colliding with a player at a base. "Believe me," he said, "I won't be out a day longer than I have to be."

To date this season Goldsmith is hitting .276 with 1 home run.

The second-place Detroit Wolverines lost their 19-year-old phenom Dee Higgins. While Higgins wasn't expected to make an impact so quickly, he made the opening day roster and has been starting for the Detroit club.

But medical officials from Detroit reported that the club's center fielder suffered inflamed facet joints in yesterday's matchup against the Boston Shipbuilders while making a defensive play. Higgins is expected to miss 3 weeks of action.

Higgins is presently batting .243 with 1 home run, 45 runs scored and 29 RBIs. He leads the league with 30 triples.

JetsIn06 · 06-25-2009, 05:53 AM

Sanford Excelling with New Club

NEWARK, NJ. June 28, 1918 - Remember when we wrote that all Orson Sanford might need is a change of scenery?

We were right. The 26-year-old Peppers catcher has been on fire through his first twenty games. He's hitting .380 with 8 doubles, 3 triples, and 21 RBI since coming to Newark.

JetsIn06 · 06-25-2009, 10:46 AM

June's Best Players Recognized

NEW YORK, NY. July 1, 1918 - It was a tight race between Cleveland second-baseman Cap Cottrell and Reading pitcher Ezra Pulljam, but Pulljam had a great final week of June and has won the United League Player of the Month Award.

The left-hander went 6-1 in 7 starts. He threw 62 innings, striking out 20 and compiling a gorgeous 1.16 ERA.

This year Pulliam has compiled a 16-5 record with a 1.87 ERA in 21 starts.

Over in the Columbia League, Michal Roy was at the top of the hit parade in the Columbia League throughout June. For the outstanding month, the talented Newark second baseman was chosen the Player of the Month.

He compiled a .381 average with 40 hits, no home runs, 18 RBIs and 21 runs scored.

Roy on the season is leading the league with a .366 average. His stats include 49 RBIs and 61 runs scored.

JetsIn06 · 06-26-2009, 04:41 AM

Attendance Worrying UBA Officials

NEW YORK, NY. July 12, 1918 - Official attendance figures were sent to the league office yesterday, and Commissioner Eagan stated, "It worries me, but it's not something that surprises me."

The war in Europe has placed a large number of baseball fans in the service, and their families are too concerned about them to watch a baseball match.

Attendance is down almost 40%, and league owners and officials are very worried about the long-term impact of this year's revenue loss.

JetsIn06 · 06-26-2009, 04:45 AM

Grays Calhoun Out of Action

WASHINGTON, DC. July 14, 1918 - Eli Calhoun of the Washington Grays was injured in today's game against Detroit and had to be helped off the field by the trainers. The initial diagnosis is a sprained ankle and he is expected to be out for up to 4 weeks. It happened while Calhoun was stealing a base. "It hurt a lot, to be honest. I just hope it heals soon and I can get back on the field."

So far in 1918 Calhoun is hitting .298 with 4 home runs, 39 RBIs and 63 runs scored. He has 98 hits and played in 91 games, helping Washington lead the United League with a 55-37 record.

JetsIn06 · 06-26-2009, 10:57 AM

Baseball Teams Must Go to Work

WASHINGTON, DC. July 20, 1918 - Organized baseball suffered a severe blow which will deprive it of the services of all it's "stars" when Secretary Baker ruled today that baseball was a non-essential occupation under the recently declared "work or fight rule."

The ruling was made in the case of Eddie Ainsmith, catcher for the American League's Washington club. Baker's ruling effects all draft-age baseball players from every league.

Commissioner Eagan announced that a press conference will be held in the next few days to discuss the future of the league.

JetsIn06 · 06-26-2009, 11:03 AM

Baker Gives Baseball Until September 1 to Find Work

WASHINGTON, DC. July 27, 1918 - After a request was made to allow baseball leagues to finish their current seasons, Baker denied the request but did allow the leagues to stay open until September 1. At that time, players would need to fight or work in an essential occupation.

Commissioner Eagan, upon hearing the ruling, announced that the regular season will end on August 14, in order to allow the Presidents Cup Series to be played to completion.

JetsIn06 · 06-26-2009, 11:05 AM

Brooklyn's Gough to Miss Season, Titans Take Big Lead

BROOKLYN, NY. July 28, 1918 - "I'm frustrated right now," said Brooklyn second baseman Mat Gough. "I can't help this team by sitting on the bench or in the training room." Unfortunately for the Titans, that's where he will be spending the next 5-6 weeks. Gough suffered a torn ligament in his thumb in today's game against Newark while colliding with a player at a base. "Believe me," he said, "I won't be out a day longer than I have to be."

A look at his 1918 stats shows Gough with a .311 average, 2 home runs, 38 RBIs and 55 runs scored. He has played in 99 games.

The Titans will miss him, but have been playing extremely well. They have overtaken the Newark Peppers and now have a 10 game lead over the second place club. They've won eight of their last ten.

JetsIn06 · 06-26-2009, 11:13 AM

Brooklyn Wins Columbia League Pennant, Tight Race in United League

BROOKLYN, NY. August 8, 1918 - It was a tight race throughout the season, but the Brooklyn club has really played well in the last few weeks and have clinched the Columbia League Pennant.

In the United League, New York has won eight of their last ten and now sit just 2.5 games behind the first-place Washington Grays.

JetsIn06 · 06-26-2009, 11:50 AM

Washington Wins United League Pennant!

WASHINGTON, DC. August 15, 1918 - In a 4-0 win over the Cleveland Maroons, the Washington Grays have clinched the United League Pennant and will play a best-of-nine game contest with the Columbia League's Brooklyn Titans.

JetsIn06 · 06-26-2009, 03:10 PM

7th UBA Season Comes to a Close

NEW YORK, NY. August 16, 1918 - The war in Europe was the backdrop to this interesting season. In the middle of July, Secretary of War Newton Baker ruled that baseball players were not exempt from the "work or fight" rule, and that the season would need to end September 1.

Commissioner Eagan decided to end the season on the 14th of August, in order to keep the Presidents Cup Series from being canceled. Tomorrow, the series will begin, pitting the Washington Grays against the Brooklyn Titans.

In 1918, we saw Twig Kidder of the Yonkers club pitch two no-hitters within a two month period. We saw Rip Boyce of Detroit hit his 999th hit, the most in UBA history and just one away from a milestone. We saw 24-year-old Michal Roy of Newark hit .365, breaking a record set in the league's first season by Wash Teal who hit .356.

We wish all of you well in these tough times. Here's hoping that the 1919 season will bring better times.

United League Standings

	W	L	GB	G
Washington	72	49		121
New York	73	51	0.5	124
Detroit	63	62	11	125
Reading	61	62	12	123
Cleveland	60	62	12.5	122
Yonkers	59	62	13	121
Chicago	56	66	16.5	122
Boston	46	76	26.5	122


Columbia League Standings

	W	L	GB	G
Brooklyn	89	35		124
Newark	69	50	17.5	119
Indiana	63	56	23.5	119
Kansas City	56	63	30.5	119
St. Louis	57	68	32.5	125
Philadelphia	52	70	36	122
Chicago	52	73	37.5	125
Baltimore	48	71	38.5	119


League Leaders

Batting Average	Michal Roy		0.364	NEW
Doubles	Orrin Seeley		29	KC
Triples	Snooks McKay		17	NY
Home Runs	Ezekiel Peel		9	CHI
Runs Batted In	Pierre Fisk		82	BRK
Stolen Bases	Bruce Magee		59	CLE

Earned Run Average	Ezra Pulljam		1.99	REA
Wins	Thomas Moyer		23	BRK
Strikeouts	Ed Gale		168	NY

06-25-2009, 02:11 AM	#279
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Newark, Chicago Deal Made NEWARK, NJ. June 3, 1918 - The Newark Peppers are in first place and want to stay there. Yesterday, they announced a deal that will upgrade their team significantly. The Newark Peppers have sent 20-year old catcher Douglas Judd, 20-year old catcher Bruce Bridges, 21-year old closer Jerry Gass, 24-year old starting pitcher Soloman Eastman and 19-year old starting pitcher Tuck Hanks to the Chicago Whales for 26-year old catcher Orson Sanford. So far this season Sanford is batting .213 with no home runs, but historically has been a much better player. The 26-year old is in his 5th UBA season. His first two were spent with the St. Louis club. After the 1915 season, he was traded to Chicago, and he broke out there. In his first season with the Whales, he hit .295 with 40 doubles and 6 home runs. Last year, his power improved, hitting 10 home runs. This season, however, he was hitting just .213 and his team was in dead last at 19-39. Newark took a chance and certainly hope he gets back on track. Maybe all he needs is a change of scenery. Last edited by JetsIn06 : 06-25-2009 at 02:45 AM.

06-20-2009, 05:36 PM	#251
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Brooklyn Re-Signs Mcgovern to Extension BROOKLYN, NY. November 17, 1917 - The Brooklyn Titans have finalized a deal with All Star-caliber right fielder Dick McGovern that will extend his stay in Brooklyn at least 4 years and will pay out $150,312. McGovern has a career .286 average with 695 hits, including 121 doubles, 74 triples and 19 homers, collected 310 RBIs, scored 375 runs and compiled a .367 OBP.

06-20-2009, 05:38 PM	#252
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Star SP Signs Pact with Orphans CHICAGO, IL. November 21, 1917 - Chicago fans celebrated as word of a signing became reality. Earl Ebert won't be pulling up stakes anytime soon, as he has signed a 4-year extension at a pay rate of $25,674 per annum. Since he is widely seen as an integral part of the club, Chicago officials had to keep Ebert from jumping ship. In his career the 30-year-old Ebert has put up a 2.45 ERA and a 110-79 mark and is widely considered to be one of the best pitchers in the game.

06-20-2009, 09:27 PM	#253
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Squire Willey Becomes First UBA Player to be Sent to Europe PHILADELPHIA, PA. December 3, 1917 - The first UBA player was sent to Europe yesterday to fight in the war. Squire Willey, the first baseman of the Centennials, enlisted in the Navy and was called into service yesterday. More players are expected to be called into service soon.

06-20-2009, 09:29 PM	#254
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Star SP Signs Extension with Indiana INDIANAPOLIS, IN. December 10, 1917 - Carlos Burrell might be greedy, but there's no disputing his talent. The hotshot starting pitcher will pocket $52,416 after re-signing with the Blues earlier today, and will hang around another 4 years. Some more financially prudent fans worried that the signing would burden the club down the road and might prevent it from being competitive, though many others were simply thankful that Burrell didn't bolt. A look at his career stats shows Burrell has a record of 78 wins and 62 losses and a 2.70 ERA.

06-20-2009, 09:36 PM	#255
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Emil Herr of Indiana Joins Military INDIANAPOLIS, IN. December 9, 1917 - Emil Herr, right-fielder for the Indiana Blues, has left the team and will be heading to war for the U.S. Military. He is the second player to leave his team to join the service.

06-21-2009, 04:25 PM	#256
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Snooks McKay Still Available NEW YORK, NY. December 11, 1917 - Apparently, Snooks McKay isn't happy with the offers he is getting from UBA teams this off-season. He's the only high profile free agent still available, but he did struggle a bit last season, hitting .244, and perhaps that is worrying ballclubs.

06-21-2009, 06:27 PM	#257
BYU 14 Coordinator Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: The scorched Desert	Nice touch adding the war angle, is it possible we could lose some of our heroes in battle?

06-21-2009, 08:05 PM	#259
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Peppers Sign Kephart to Four-Year Extension NEWARK, NJ. December 20, 1917 - Happy times in Newark as the Peppers and star third baseman Warley Kephart put the finishing touches on a $131,016 contract extension that will keep the 32-year-old in town 4 years longer. The signing is great news for Newark because players of this caliber are hard to come by. In 729 games, Kephart has a career .277 batting average and a .420 on-base percentage. He has hit 12 home runs with 258 RBIs and 311 runs scored in his six UBA seasons. He spent two years with Chicago Orphans, three with St. Louis, and now he'll finally be able to call a place home for a good amount of time in New Jersey.

06-21-2009, 09:27 PM	#260
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Truman Hashes out 4-Year Contract BALTIMORE, MD. January 30, 1918 - Team officials triumphantly announced that the Terrapins and superstar catcher Reuben Truman have closed a deal that keeps the 32-year-old in a Baltimore uniform for another 4 years. Truman will earn $120,816 as part of the settlement. Over his career Truman is batting .256 with 99 doubles, 36 triples, 30 home runs, 332 RBIs and scored 343 runs in 693 games. He started his career with New York, but left for Baltimore last season and will now be there for a good while.

06-21-2009, 09:31 PM	#261
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	New York Signs Kutz...No McKay for Gothams? NEW YORK, NY. February 1, 1918 - In a very shocking move, the Gothams have signed injured right fielder Baptist Kutz, a 32-year-old who spent his last four seasons with the Chicago Whales. Kutz has put together a solid career thus far, but has been injured often. Many teams were scared to sign him this off-season because of an injured finger. He should be ready by opening day, but his history shows that he won't be the same because of it. The bigger story, however, is the fact that the Gothams were favorites to land Snooks McKay, the best free agent available, who is also a right-fielder. Has New York given up on him? Perhaps Kutz is insurance and they still want McKay? It has been a back and forth battle between New York and Brooklyn to land McKay, but the last we've heard was that the Gothams were in the lead.

06-21-2009, 09:54 PM	#262
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Commissioner Eagan Reveals New Minor League Structure NEW YORK, NY. February 2, 1917 - At the player-owner meetings back in November, it was revealed that a vast re-organization of the minor leagues would take place as a way to increase revenue and also give UBA fans around the country a chance to watch the league. For the past six seasons, each club's minor league affiliate was places in the home city. So, Boston's three teams were each in Boston. While it certainly made it convenient for the players, fans had no interest in watching those games because they had the big league team right there. The new structure will place eight teams in two leagues for each class of minor league ball. Class A will feature the Northern League and the Atlantic League. Because this is the class closest to the big leagues, the cities will be placed relatively close to the parent club. A train ride from the mid-west to New York takes time and money, and with injuries, parent clubs want to get the youngsters to the team as fast as possible. Therefore, each Class A team will be located very close to the parent squad. Class B will host the Pacific League and the Mesa League. The Pacific League, as you may have guessed, will feature teams on the west coast along the coast. The Mesa League will mainly feature teams in Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, and Utah. Finally, Class C will host the Texas State League and the Carolina League.

06-22-2009, 04:49 AM	#263
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Chicago Orphans Sold by O'Connor Family to Popcorn Magnate CHICAGO, IL. February 2, 1917 - Apparently the O'Connor family is scared off by the uncertainty of the upcoming season. When the Orphans won the series in 1917, many believed Mr. O'Connor would officially hand the team over to his son. However, it has been reported that the family has sold the team to the owner of Whittington Popping Corn, Mr. Pinch Whittington. The 52-year-old is known to be a rather eccentric fellow, and may be just what the league needs during these tough times. Chicago fans need not worry, however, as Whittington is from Ridgway, IL and is a big fan of the Orphans. There is virtually no chance that he will move the team away from Chicago.

06-22-2009, 04:57 AM	#264
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	RF Mckay Settles on New York NEW YORK, NY. February 4, 1917 - New York fans are justifiably excited today as the team unveiled their latest acquisition in Snooks Mckay. The 33-year-old is a big money player and will certainly have an immediate impact on the organization. Some estimates have him making $46,626 over 3 years, though media representatives haven't been able to confirm the exact figure. In his career Mckay has gotten 792 hits with a .292 batting average, scored 381 runs, hit 12 home runs and driven in 329. The veteran spent his first five seasons in Reading, then spent last year in Detroit.

06-22-2009, 06:41 AM	#266
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Opening Day Schedule Announced NEW YORK, NY. March 15, 1917 - The 1918 schedule has been released, and while no one knows if the entirety of it will actually be played, opening day should encounter no problems. The two games slated to take place on April the 1st are: Washington at Reading Yonkers at Boston The two match-ups should do a fantastic job of kicking off the new season.

06-22-2009, 11:21 AM	#267
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	President Wilson Opens Up 1918 Season BOSTON, MA. April 2, 1918 - President Woodrow Wilson officially opened up the 1918 season yesterday by throwing out the first pitch in the game between the Yonkers Knights and the Boston Shipbuilders. "Good afternoon, baseball fans. As we are about to begin this magnificent game, please remember the young men fighting over in Europe. Thank you." It was short, but it got the message across to players and fans. This was just a game, and more important things were going on around the world. Graveyard Cherry opened up the season for Boston with a six-hit shutout. He struck out ten, walked one, and kicked off his 1918 season with a bang.

06-22-2009, 11:27 AM	#268
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Chicago Re-Signs Peel to Extension CHICAGO, IL. April 13, 1918 - Chicago fans celebrated as word of a signing became reality. Ezekiel Peel won't be pulling up stakes anytime soon, as he has signed a 5-year extension at a pay rate of $34,275 per annum. Since he is widely seen as an integral part of the club, Chicago officials had to keep Peel from jumping ship. Peel, who is the career home run leader with 52, has been with Chicago since the league's inaugural season.

06-22-2009, 11:38 AM	#269
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Titans Lose SS Dell BROOKLYN, NY. April 18, 1918 - Brooklyn fans held their breath as Dummy Dell left yesterday's Terriers-Titans contest with an injury. After the game, the team's medical staff said that the 24-year-old shortstop had suffered a sports hernia while running the bases. It's estimated that he will be out 8 weeks. Thus far this year Dell has hit .346 with no home runs and 7 RBIs.

06-22-2009, 11:50 AM	#270
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Grays Gamble, Newark's Roy April's Top Players NEW YORK, NY. May 1, 1918 - The United League Player of the Month honor has been given to Emile Gamble of Washington for a superlative month. "I actually never wanted to be a pitcher," Gamble told reporters when asked who he credits for his pitching ability. "I was an outfielder until high school and on the third day of tryouts my coach came up and said, 'Son you couldn't hit a lick even if we put it on a tee for ya.' Well, that ticked me off, so I decided if I couldn't hit I wanted to make sure no one else could either and so here I am." It all turned out for the best as the Washington starter notched a 5-1 record with a 1.57 ERA last month. He made 7 starts and struck out 22 in 63 innings. When Michal Roy stepped up to the plate in April, he did it with confidence and today he was honored with the Columbia League Player of the Month award. The young Newark second baseman posted a .406 batting average with no home runs, 17 RBIs and scored 19 runs. Roy also worked pitchers for 13 walks to post a .463 on-base percentage.

06-22-2009, 11:55 AM	#271
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	St. Louis Signs RF Mahoney to 2-Year Extension ST. LOUIS, MO. May 3, 918 - Happy times in St. Louis as the Terriers and star right fielder Nelson Mahoney put the finishing touches on a $35,406 contract extension that will keep the 27-year-old in town 2 years longer. The signing is great news for St. Louis because players of this caliber are hard to come by. This year Mahoney has hit at a .279 pace and produced 11 RBIs, no home runs and scored 16 runs. He broke into the league in 1914 with the Terriers after playing in five games with the old Washington franchise.

06-22-2009, 12:01 PM	#272
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Kidder Twirls No-Hitter Against Wolverines! YONKERS, NY. May 5, 1918 - In a seldom seen sight, Twig Kidder threw a no-hitter as the Yonkers Knights beat the Detroit Wolverines 4-0. In a dominating performance at Amark Field he struck out 6 and walked 1 while facing only 29 batters. "He had great stuff out there," the Knights manager told BNN reporters. "Twig was a real gamer, a real competitor. He didn't give in to anybody out there." This year Kidder has a 4-4 mark in 8 starts with a 1.41 ERA. He has given up 51 hits in 70 innings, struck out 21 and issued 13 walks. Opposing clubs have compiled a .203 batting average against him. This is the third no-hitter that has taken place in UBA history.

06-22-2009, 12:05 PM	#273
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Bennett, New York Sign 3-Year Pact NEW YORK, NY. May 9, 1918 - Gothams fans were divided today as New York confirmed that the front office has signed Floyd Bennett to a 3-year extension at a rate of $25,662 per year. While many were enthusiastically behind the signing, others worried about Bennett's age. He'll turn 35 at the end of the season. In 1918 Bennett has compiled a 7-2 mark with a 2.22 ERA.

06-22-2009, 12:52 PM	#274
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Three Players Called Into Service NEW YORK, NY. May 16, 1918 - Three more UBA players got called into service yesterday. Pitcher Irwin Dunbar of Reading, catcher Tug Edward of New York, and center-fielder Adelbert Howland of Detroit have all gotten the assignment of heading to Europe to fight for their country. Our thoughts and prayers will be with them, as well as the rest of our boys in Europe.

06-22-2009, 01:12 PM	#275
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Cherry Hurt, out 3 Weeks BOSTON, MA. May 21, 1918 - Clay Cherry and the Boston Shipbuilders got a bad break in today's game against the Orphans as the team confirmed he will miss 3 weeks with a sprained ankle. The Shipbuilders starting pitcher suffered the injury throwing the ball. The team doctor is confident he'll make a full recovery. Season-to-date Cherry has rung up 8 wins and 2 losses in 12 appearances. He has an ERA of 2.24 and has fanned 63 batters in 88.1 innings.

06-24-2009, 06:46 AM	#277
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Whittington Names Chicago Ballpark CHICAGO, IL. May 25, 1918 - The ballpark formerly known as O'Connor Park officially received a new name today. The Orphans, now owned by popping corn magnate Pinch Whittington, will now play at the Windy City Grounds. Whittington stated that he wasn't looking to advertise his name or his popping corn business with the stadium moniker, but wanted to honor his "favorite city in the world."

06-25-2009, 01:56 AM	#278
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	May's Top Players NEW YORK, NY. June 1, 1918 - Each league announced their monthly awards yesterday, and here are May's recipients: In the United League, the award was given to Hermann Howland, the first baseman of the New York Gothams. He hit .336 with 37 hits, 4 home runs, 20 RBIs, and 15 runs. Unfortunately, the third-year player tore an ankle ligament and will be out for the next 5-6 weeks. The defending champion Gothams lead the United League with a 35-22 record. In the Columbia League, the award went to 22-year-old pitcher Juan Longstreet. The Chicago native went 6-1 in May with a 1.48 ERA. He held his opponents to a .236 batting average. Longstreet is 9-4 with a 1.99 ERA so far this season. His club, the Newark Peppers, are 1.5 games up on last years pennant winners. Newark has never finished higher than 5th place and Peppers fans are hoping they can keep the lead in the standings.

06-25-2009, 02:22 AM	#280
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Sanford Shines in Debut NEWARK, NJ. June 5, 1918 - In his first game with the Peppers, Orson Sanford impressed Newark fans by going one-for-two with 4 RBI. His hit came in the 4th inning with two on and no outs. He ripped one into the gap for a triple. His other two RBI came on sacrifice flies. The first-place Peppers beat the second-place Brooklyn club 7-5.

06-25-2009, 02:50 AM	#281
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Cherry Pitches Complete Game Shutout in First Game Back BOSTON, MA. June 12, 1918 - On the 19th of last month, Clay "Graveyard" Cherry sprained his ankle while on the mound and has been out since. But yesterday, he pitched a complete game shutout in his first game back. Facing Washington, Cherry threw a 4-hit, 1-walk, 7-K game and led the Shipbuilders to a 3-0 victory. Unfortunately, the team is 25-40 and sitting in last place.

06-25-2009, 03:26 AM	#282
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Philadelphia Have Lost Last 15 Games PHILADELPHIA, PA. June 21, 1918 - In a stunning display of ineptitude, the Philadelphia Centennials have gone 2-22 in the last 24 games, and have lost their last 15 straight. Before their last 24 games, the Centennials were in great shape with a 26-21 record. Now, they are 28-43.

06-25-2009, 04:31 AM	#283
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Kidder Hurls 2nd No-Hitter of Season YONKERS, NY. June 22, 1918 - Twig Kidder has pitched his second no-hitter, just one and a half months after his first. On his historic day at Amark Field, Twig Kidder of Yonkers made good pitches the entire game, fanned 5 and had 1 walk. When the Shipbuilders hit the ball hard, they hit it right at someone for an out. But that's how you get a no-hitter -- a lot of skill mixed with a little luck. So far through the seven UBA seasons, there have been four no-hitters. But this is the first time two have occured in this same season, and it could be a long while before we see two in the same season from the same pitcher! This year Kidder has made 19 starts, thrown 153.2 innings, fanned 47 batters and walked 33. His won-lost record is 9-10 with a 2.05 ERA.

06-25-2009, 05:50 AM	#285
JetsIn06 Pro Rookie Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Rahway, NJ	Top Two United League Clubs Lose Player to Injury WASHINGTON, DC. June 27, 1918 - In one day, the top two teams battling for the United League Pennant lost key players to injury. The Washington Grays lost Forest Goldsmith. "I'm frustrated right now," said second baseman Forest Goldsmith. "I can't help this team by sitting on the bench or in the training room." Unfortunately for the Grays, that's where he will be spending the next 7 weeks. Goldsmith suffered a bruised kneecap inyesterday's game against New York while colliding with a player at a base. "Believe me," he said, "I won't be out a day longer than I have to be." To date this season Goldsmith is hitting .276 with 1 home run. The second-place Detroit Wolverines lost their 19-year-old phenom Dee Higgins. While Higgins wasn't expected to make an impact so quickly, he made the opening day roster and has been starting for the Detroit club. But medical officials from Detroit reported that the club's center fielder suffered inflamed facet joints in yesterday's matchup against the Boston Shipbuilders while making a defensive play. Higgins is expected to miss 3 weeks of action. Higgins is presently batting .243 with 1 home run, 45 runs scored and 29 RBIs. He leads the league with 30 triples.