100 Years Ago Today 9/19/1920: Brooklyn Robins Maintain Five Game Lead Over New York Giants

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF DEM BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #147: Sunday, September 19, 1920 - BR
Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Brooklyn Robins
Ebbets Field 

Jeff Pfeffer Outlasts Wilbur Cooper

Gripped with pennant fever, 25,000 boisterous fans pack Ebbets Field for the first of two games against the Pirates.  Jeff Pfeffer toes the rubber against 23-game winner Wilbur Cooper.  Both teams trade a pair of runs in the first.  Pittsburgh gets runs batted in from Billy Southworth and Bill McKenchie and the Robins score on runs batted in from Zack Wheat and Hi Myers.  They trade tallies again in the sixth on a run batted in from George Cutshaw and a leadoff home run to deep left off the bat of Jimmy Johnston.  Pfeffer and Cooper trade goose eggs for the next two innings as the game enters the final frame tied at three.  Pfeffer pitches in and out of trouble in the top half of the frame.  In the home ninth Bernie Neis greets Wilbur Cooper with a leadoff double.  With Zack Wheat at the plate, Neis steals second base but the throw from catcher Walter Schmidt escapes into centerfield.  Bernie Neis comes around to score the winning run, and the place goes nuts.  Smith earns his sixteenth win of the season.  After starting the first three months of the season with a 3-8 record an 3.18 ERA, Pfeffer since July has posted a stellar 13-1 record with a lowered 3.04 earned run average.  Today he yields three runs on eight hits and no walks with three strikeouts through nine innings complete.  Elsewhere, the Giants defeat the Reds in eleven innings at the Polo Grounds.  Cincinnati now falls seven games out of first, while the Giants creep within five.  New York has twelve games remaining and Brooklyn has eight.

• RECORD:87-59 (.596)
• 1st Place; 5.0 GA

AMERICAN LEAGUE

• The Yankees lose their fourth straight.  Today they bow to the Browns at St. Louis to fall three games back of first place.  The White Sox, with their accused eight still in uniform, defeat the Athletics at Comiskey.  However, Cleveland whitewashes the Red Sox at League Park to remain 1.5 games in first.

100 Years Ago Today 9/10/1920: Victory Over Cardinals Gives Brooklyn Robins Full Game Lead Over Reds

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF DEM BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #136: Friday, September 10, 1920 - BR
St. Louis Cardinals vs. Brooklyn Robins
Ebbets Field

Robins Tie Game in Ninth, Win in Eleventh Inning

This game was not for the squeamish or faint of heart.  Certainly not a good day for pitchers unless your name is Jeff Pfeffer who somehow escapes Friday's action with a victory.  Hi Myers opens the scoring in the first with a triple driving home Jimmy Johnston and Zack Wheat.  After which a passed ball by catcher Verne Clemons plates Myers for a 3-0 Robins lead.  In the top half of the second Rogers Hornsby connects off Rube Marquard for his ninth home.  The game remains a 3-1 affair through the sixth.  In the St. Louis seventh, Clemons drives home a run and first baseman Jack Fournier connects off Marquard for a three run home run to deep right.  Trailing 5-3 in the ninth, Brooklyn rallies against Cardinals starter Ferdie Schupp for three hits and two runs to send the game into extra innings.  Facing Jeff Pfeffer (in relief of Maquard and Sherry Smith) in the top of the eleventh, the Cardinals erupt for three runs.  Pfeffer yields three consecutive hits then walks Mike Knode with the bases loaded.  Right fielder Joe Schulz follows with a hit back through the box and into centerfield plating two.  Facing reliever Bill Sherdel in the home eleventh resilient Brooklyn counters with four runs, Hi Myers drives home the game winner.  Rube Marquard is happy to accept a no decision.  Pfeffer earns his fourteenth win of the season with a 3.05 ERA.  Ivy Olson is 3 for 6 with two runs batted in.  Hi Myers now has 73 runs batted in for the season.  Both the Reds and Giants are idle. 

BABE RUTH HITS #48

In the American League, New York's victory at Cleveland forces a first place tie between the Indians and White Sox with the Highlanders lurking a mere one-half game out.  Facing 18-game winner Ray Caldwell in the first inning at League Park, Babe Ruth (.374) connects for his unheard of 48th home run; with two runs batted in he now has 122 for the season.

• RECORD: 78-57 (.578)
• 1st Place; 1.0 GA

100 Years Ago Today 9/8/1920: Brooklyn Robins Reclaim Share of First Place

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #134: Wednesday, September 8, 1920 - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Baker Bowl

Robins Returning to Brooklyn for the Final Home Stretch

Wednesday is a productive day for the Robins.  In defeating the Phillies they gain the series win, extend their winning streak to three and reestablish a tie for first place with the Reds.  Philadelphia's Cy Williams is 2 for 4 with a double and three runs batted in and catcher Walt Tragesser homers in the seventh, but it's not enough.  Brooklyn starter Jeff Pfeffer, who extends his record to 10-1 over his last fifteen appearances, goes the distance yielding four earned runs on ten hits and three walks with five strikeouts for his thirteenth victory of the season with a 2.94 ERA.  Brooklyn executes a double steal with Jimmy Johnston swiping home as part of a three run third.  They score twice more in the fourth on Ed Konetchy's home run and a sac-fly from Ivy Olson.  After which the Robins hold on for a 7-4 final.  Ivy Olson is 2 for 4 with a double, a run scored and two runs batted in.  Getting the start in right field, Bill Lamar goes 2 for 5 with a double, a run scored and one run batted in.  The Cincinnati Reds are idle, but the New York Giants sweep a twin bill at Braves Field to close within 1.5 games of first place.  The Robins have 21 games remaining on their schedule, with all but two slated for play at Ebbets Field.  Cincinnati visits Brooklyn mid-month who then close out the regular season with a five game home and home series against the New York Giants and a one game finale against the Braves.

• RECORD: 76-57 (.571)
• 1st Place; Tied

100 Years Ago Today 9/6/1920: Brooklyn Robins Back in Second After Dropping Twin Bill at Philadelphia

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions 

Game #130: Monday, September 6, 1920, GAME ONE - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Baker Bowl

Phillies Hold On For Game One Victory

Brooklyn scores twice in the eighth, but it isn't enough as starter Red Causey and the Phillies hold on for a 3-2 victory.  Center fielder Cy Williams opens the scoring in the Phillies first with a two out home run off Robins starter Jeff Pfeffer.  Jeff hurts his own cause in the fourth, when, with the bases loaded Pfeffer fields a bunt but throws errantly to first base.  Two runs score on the play.  Clarence Mitchell singles home two runs in the eighth, but it's too little too late.  Pfeffer loses his ninth game against twelve victories with a 2.88 ERA.


Game #131: Monday, September 6, 1920, GAME TWO - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Baker Bowl

Spitballer Burleigh Grimes Comes up Dry Against Phillies

The Robins once again come up short.  Brooklyn knocks starter Huck Betts out of the box with haste, plating three runs in the first off the bats of Zack Wheat, Hi Myers and Ed Konetchy.  However, Burleigh Grimes can not hold the lead.  Philadelphia scores four times in the second, then pick up an unearned run in the fourth.  Burleigh Grimes yields his six run of the game in the fifth.  After which it's just a matter of the Phillies holding on.  Bill Lamar drives home a run in the eighth and Hi Myers doubles home a run in the ninth.  With one out and two runners in scoring position, Ed Konetchy grounds into a fielder's choice and Pete Kilduff pops up to first ending the game.  New York splits a double-header with the Braves, but Cincinnati sweeps two from the Cardinals.  The defending champions reclaim first place by 1.5 games over the Robins with 24 games left to play.

• RECORD: 73-57 (.554)
• 2nd Place; 1.5 GB

100 Years Ago Today 8/31/1920: Brooklyn Robins Take Back First Place As September Looms

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS
1920 National League Champions

Game #126: Tuesday, August 31, 1920 - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. St. Louis Cardinals
Sportsman's Park

First Place Brooklyn Robins Achieve Victory Number Seventy with Twenty-Nine Games Left to Play 

Message to Uncle Robbie: Don't look back or you just might see who is behind you.

After all, New York City is still John McGraw's empire.  But it's also a not so subtle reminder that the National League pennant is up for grabs. 

If over these last five months you've remained a member of the staunch Brooklyn skeptics and Robins naysayers, then perhaps Tuesday's contest finally swayed you into believing this surprisingly irrepressible team - virtually unchanged from last season - genuinely stands poised to win another National League pennant.  From the lips of yours truly to the ears of Charlie Byrne!  But the McKeever Brothers and Charlie Ebbets himself believe this to be true.  Fans filing into 55 Sullivan Place in exponentially record numbers are all the proof they need.

With Tuesday's 5-2 victory at Sportsman's Park the Robins finish the month of August with a modest 14-13 record.  However, the true significance of Tuesday's game is that it marks Brooklyn's seventieth victory of the regular season.  It's one win above last season's total; thirteen more than achieved in 1918; and presently matches their 1917 output.  Only difference being this year's Robins still have twenty-nine games left to play.  Everything now points back to 1916 when the Robins win 94 games and capture the pennant by a 2.5 game margin over Philadelphia.  It may take that many wins if not more in order to keep at bay the defending champion Cincinnati Reds and surging New York Giants.  But make no mistake, the road to the pennant presently courses through Brooklyn, as both Cincinnati and the New York Giants visit Ebbets Field in late September.

Back on the field, the Robins lose their series against St. Louis but at least salvage a victory in their final visit this season to Sportsman's Park.  Unlike yesterday Brooklyn stays a step ahead of the Cardinals with a 2-1 lead after three, trading runs in the sixth, then closing with two more runs in the seventh en route to a 5-2 final.  Bernie Neis getting a start in center field goes 2 for 5 with two runs batted in.  Hi Myers, Ed Konetchy and Pete Kilduff also drive in a run apiece.  Starter Jeff Pfeffer improves to 12-8 with a 2.90 ERA, after yielding two runs on seven hits and no walks with four strikeouts through a full nine.  Boston's extra-inning triumph over Cincinnati coupled with Brooklyn's victory once again gives the Robins a half-game lead over the Reds. 

Meanwhile, the New York Giants lose yet again at Forbes Field placing them two games out of first.  We know Wilbert Robinson and John McGraw are no longer the close friends they once were.  It seems the only things they have in common theses days are their respective issues playing Pittsburgh.

• RECORD: 70-55 (.560)
• 1st Place; 0.5 GA

100 Years Ago Today 8/27/1920: Brooklyn Robins Retake Sole Possession of First Place

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #121: Friday, August 27, 1920 - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Chicago Cubs
Cubs Park

National League is Officially Up for Grabs

By all indications, the National League is up for grabs.  We start in Cincinnati, where the defending champion Reds bow to the New York Giants after seventeen innings in the first game of a planned twin bill.  They're unable to play the second contest on account of darkness.  Back in Chicago, the Robins win their third straight and take their second in a row from the Cubs, thus sliding up one full game into first place.  Jeff Pfeffer toes the rubber and is opposed by Cubs veteran Claude Hendrix.  Chicago jumps out to a quick lead with runs in the first and second innings.  The Robins knot the game with a pair of runs in the third.  After trading runs in the fourth, the game proceeds quietly through the seventh.  Brooklyn breaks the deadlock with three runs in the eighth en route to a 6-3 victory.  Ed Konetchy drives in two runs, Tommy Griffith, Pete Kilduff and Otto Miller drive in one run apiece.  Ivy Olson remains hot at the plate with three hits in five at-bats.  Zack Wheat is also 3 for 5 with a run scored.  But the Robins also hit into five double-plays.  Jeff Pfeffer allows three earned runs on fourteen hits and two walks through nine innings for his eleventh victory against eight losses with a 2.95 ERA.

• RECORD: 69-51 (.575)
• 1st Place; 1.0 GA

100 Years Ago Today 8/23/1920: Brooklyn Robins Take Series Opener at Forbes Field

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS
1920 National League Champions

Game #117: Monday, August 23, 1920 - BR 
Brooklyn Robins vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
Forbes Field

Jeff Pfeffer Hurls Gem at Pirates; Robins Remain Tied for First

Brooklyn wins their third straight game with a series opening victory at Pittsburgh.  The Pirates have been nothing but trouble for the Robins this summer.  But on this day Jeff Pfeffer takes all the wind out of their sails.  Brooklyn pushes across an unearned run in the third and never look back.  Facing starter Earl Hamilton in the top of the ninth, Pfeffer provides himself some insurance with a triple to center scoring Ed Konetchy, then scores on Ivy Olson's base hit.  Jeff Pfeffer turns in his finest performance of the season, allowing just four scattered hits and one walk through nine scoreless innings for his second shutout of the season.  He improves to 10-8 with a 2.94 earned run average.  In fact, Pfeffer and Ivy Olson join for six of the Robins ten hits and drive in one run apiece.  Cincinnati defeats the Phillies at Redland Field thus the Reds and Robins remain tied for first.  The New York Giants stomp the Cardinals at St. Louis and remain two games back of first.

• RECORD: 66-50 (.569)
• 1st Place; Tied with Reds

100 Years Ago Today 8/15/1920: Brooklyn Robins Alone in First After Victory Over Phillies

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champion

Game #112: Sunday, August 15, 1920 - BR
Philadelphia Phillies vs. Brooklyn Dodgers
Ebbets Field

Fireman Burleigh Grimes Saves the Day; Robins Back in Sole Possession of First

It takes longer than anticipated, but the Robins outlast the Phillies at Ebbets Field to regain sole possession of first place.  Facing Jeff Pfeffer, Philadelphia leads 4-2 after five innings.  Pitching for Philadelphia is former Trolley Dodger George Smith.  Pfeffer is knocked out of the game after yielding four earned runs on six hits and a walk through six innings.  In the Brooklyn seventh, Ivy Olson, Jimmy Johnston and Tommy Griffith together generate two runs tying the game at four.  Pitching in relief of Jeff Pfeffer and Leon Cardore in the Philadelphia eighth, Al Mamaux walks two of three batters faced.  That prompts a visit by Uncle Robbie who urgently summons Burleigh Grimes from the bullpen.  The spitballer rewards his manager with a goose egg.  But the game stays knotted through the ninth and tenth and eleventh innings.  Philadelphia breaks the deadlock in the top of the twelfth helped by Ivy Olson's errant throw with the bases loaded.  Grimes regains control of the situation and escapes with only one run scored.  Brooklyn born right-hander Johnny Enzmann enters the game for the Phillies.  Ivy Olson and Jimmy Johnston greet him with consecutive singles, and with one out Zack Wheat is issued an intentional walk.  Manager Gavvy Cravath looks on as Ivy Olson steps in.  Cravath gets his wish, a sure double play ground ball to short is returned home for a force out.  But catcher Mack Wheat throws errantly to first base allowing both brother Zack and Jimmy Johnston to score.  Native Brooklynite and former Robins pitcher Johnny Enzmann suffers his first loss in only his fifth appearance of the season.  Back in 1914 he appears in seven games for his hometown Brooklyn Dodgers.  The spitballer Burleigh Grimes allows no earned runs on three hits and one walk with four strikeouts though 4.2 innings for the win.  He improves to 18-7 with a 2.18 earned run average.  Chicago whitewashes the Reds at Cubs Park, and the Giants split a twin bill with the Braves at the Polo Grounds.

• RECORD: 63-48 (.568)
• First Place; 1.0 GA 

100 Years Ago Today 8/11/1920: Brooklyn Robins Split Twin Bill With Cubs

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #107: Wednesday, August 11, 1920; GAME ONE - BR
Chicago Cubs vs. Brooklyn Robins
Ebbets Field

Jeff Pfeffer Tames Cubs; Robins Ride Big Inning to Victory

With a six run outburst in the fifth, Jeff Pfeffer and the Robins roll to a commanding 9-3 victory in Game One at Ebbets Field.  Pfeffer goes the distance, allowing three earned runs on eight hits (including a home run off the bat of right fielder Max Flack), and two walks, en route to his ninth victory for the season.  Flack goes 2 for 3, and drives in all three Chicago runs.  Jimmy Johnston is big man on campus going 4 for 5, with a double, and two runs batted in, and two runs scored.  Zack Wheat is 2 for 5, also with a double, two runs batted in, and two runs scored.  Hi Myers, with a double in the fifth, drives in his team leading 54th run for the season.  Ed Konetchy raises his average to .319 with three hits and a run batted in.  And Jeff Pfeffer aids his own cause with two hits and two runs batted in.


Game #108: Wednesday, August, 11, 1920; GAME TWO - BR
Chicago Cubs vs. Brooklyn Robins
Ebbets Field

Cubs Salvage Split; Grover Alexander Closes the Door on Robins

Chicago rallies for a late run to salvage a twin bill split at Ebbets Field.  Starter Leon Cadore compromises his own cause with a throwing error in the seventh inning, thus putting the go ahead run on second.  Sure enough, pinch hitter Turner Barber drives home Charlie Deal giving the Cubs a 4-3 lead, and ultimate margin of victory.  When the Robins place the tying run on second in the bottom of the ninth, manager Fred Mitchell calls upon Grover Alexander, who slams the door shut on Brooklyn.  Ivy Olson strikes out ending the game.

• RECORD: 61-46 (.570)
• First Place; 0.5 GA

Correction: I ended this series too soon.  One more game left against the Cubs, and then! it's off to the Polo Grounds.  Sorry!
Edited 10:28pm Monday

100 Years Ago Today 7/31/1920: Brooklyn Robins Defeat Cardinals in Series Opener

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #99: Saturday, July 31, 1920 - BR
St. Louis Cardinals vs. Brooklyn Robins
Ebbets Field

Brooklyn Holds Their Ground With Defeat of Cardinals

The Ebbets Field scoreboard keepers on Saturday are pressed into early action and stay busy throughout day.  The Robins build a 5-1 lead through the third.  When the Redbirds counter with three tallies in the sixth, the Brooks erupt for a pair of runs in the seventh, and another pair in the eighth en route to a 9-5 victory.  Starter Jeff Pfeffer surrenders four runs on eight hits and two walks, with five strikeouts through six innings of work.  He evens his record at 8-8 with a 2.98 ERA.  Sherry Smith allows a run on two hits and no walks over three innings in relief of Pfeffer.  Smith earns his third save of the season.  St. Louis yields three unearned runs.  Otherwise, Pete Kilduff and Rowdy Elliott both drive in two runs apiece, and Hi Myers and Ed Konetchy drive home one run each.  Cardinals second baseman extraordinaire Rogers Hornsby goes 4 for 4 with a double, two runs scored, and a run batted in.  Brooklyn gains no ground, though, as the Cincinnati Reds defeat the New York Giants at the Polo Grounds.

• RECORD: 56-42 (.571)
• First Place; 0.5 GA

100 Years Ago Today 7/26/1920: Brooklyn Robins Salvage Ebbets Field Split with Pirates

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #94: Monday, July 26, 1920 - BR
Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Brooklyn Robins
Ebbets Field

Uncle Robbie Gives Pfeffer Timely Hook; Sherry Smith Holds Pirates at Bay

Brooklyn gains a split with Pittsburgh at Ebbets Field, and at least for the next week or so finally rid themselves of those troublesome Pirates.  With a little help from their opponents, the Robins get most of their scoring done early.  A throwing error in the first inning by Bucs catcher Bill Haeffner leads to three unearned runs for Brooklyn.  Tommy Griffin, Zack Wheat, and Hi Myers, all score.  In the second inning with Jimmy Johnston at the plate, Pirates starter Hal Carlson unleashes a wild pitch allowing Rowdy Elliott to score all the way from second.  And in the third Pete Kilduff's base hit through the left side plates Myers giving the Robins a commanding 5-0 lead.  Or so they thought.  Facing Jeff Pfeffer in the fourth, the Pirates score four times on four hits and two walks, while getting two runs batted in each by shortstop Howdy Caton and Bill Haeffner.  When Max Carey doubles leading off the top of the fifth, Uncle Robbie gives Pfeffer the hook.  Sherry Smith goes on to pitch five scoreless innings allowing only three hits.  Brooklyn tallies some insurance in the sixth on Sherry Smith's two out triple to center scoring Elliott for a 6-4 final margin of victory.  Sherry Smith improves to 7-5 with a fine 1.98 ERA; for Jeff Pfeffer, a no decision.  Rowdy Elliott is 3 for 4 with a double and two runs scored.  Ed Konetchy (.324) goes 2 for 4 with a double and run batted in.  Meanwhile, the rest of the league is idle.  Therefore Brooklyn adds a half-game to their lead over the second place Reds, whom arrive at tomorrow for a four game showdown at Ebbets Field.  Getcha' tickets, gonna be fun.

• RECORD: 54-39 (.580)
• First Place; 2.5 GA

100 Years Ago Today 7/24/1920: Brooklyn Robins Lose Third Game in Four Tries at Forbes Field

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #92: Saturday, July 24, 1920 - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
Forbes Field

Pirates Continue Getting Best of Brooklyn Robins; Grimes Loses Sixth of the Season

ROBINS CONCLUDE ROAD TRIP WITH 16-7 RECORD

With Burleigh Grimes taking his turn on the bump, all seems fine when in the second inning Brooklyn takes a 1-0 lead as Grimes himself grounds into a fielder's choice scoring Ed Konetchy from third.  However, Pittsburgh starter Wilbur Cooper has other ideas, holding the Robins to just the lone run on five scattered hits, and two walks, with two strikeouts through a full nine innings of work.  Hi Myers accounts for two of Brooklyn's hits; Jimmy Johnston, Bernie Neis, and Ed Konetchy account for the others.  Meanwhile, Pittsburgh roughs up Grimes for five earned runs on seven hits and a walk in just six innings pitched.  Catcher Bill Haeffner is big man on campus going 2 for 3 with a triple and three runs batted in.  First baseman Charlie Grimm is 3 for 4 with two runs scored.  Jeff Pfeffer pitches two scoreless innings in relief of Burleigh Grimes who is now 14-6 on the season with a climbing 2.22 ERA.  Brooklyn' first place lead is reduced again to a pair of games as the Reds defeat the New York Giants out at Redland Field.  Despite today's loss the Robins today conclude a wildly successful 23-game road trip that sees them journey through Boston, St. Louis, Chicago, Cincinnati, and lastly, Pittsburgh.  They post a wondrous 16-7 record, and on June 8 seize first place which they're yet to relinquish.  The Robins and Pirates now travel to Brooklyn for two more games at Ebbets Field.  After which, another showdown against the Cincinnati Reds awaits.

• RECORD: 53-38 (.582)
• First Place; 2.0 GA

HOME PLATE

FORBES FIELD

100 Years Ago Today 7/19/1920: Defending Champion Reds Take Second Straight From Brooklyn Robins

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #87: Monday, July 19, 1920 - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Cincinnati Reds
Redland Field

Ninth Inning Gaffe Dooms Brooklyn; Defending Champs Even Series

Trolley Dodgers Lose Two Straight For First Time This Month

A thrilling back and forth affair for Reds fans and manager Pat Moran, not so much for Uncle Robbie and visiting Brooklyn.  Facing Jeff Pfeffer the Reds score single runs in the first, third, and fourth innings.  Cincinnati has to thank for their 3-0 lead left fielder Pat Duncan, shortstop Larry Kopf, and third baseman Heinie Groh.  Zack Wheat drives home Brooklyn's first run in the fifth.  In the sixth Jimmy Johnston drives in their second run, then Bernie Neies plates two with a triple to right giving the Robins a 4-3 lead.  First baseman and former Brooklyn Robin Jake Daubert's base hit in the bottom half of the sixth ties the game at four.  With Al Mamaux pitching in relief of Jeff Pfeffer, and starter Dutch Ruether still in the box for Cincinnati, into the ninth inning they go.  Jimmy Johnston, Bernie Neis, and Zack Wheat, are retired in order.  Jake Daubert leads off the bottom of the ninth with a double to center.  Reds star center fielder Edd Roush attempts a sacrifice bunt, but Al Mamaux in his attempt to first throws the ball away permitting Daubert to score the winning run.  Alas the Cincinnati Reds tie the series at two game apiece.  The game is only Brooklyn's fourth loss against fourteen victories during what is so far an overwhelmingly successful road trip.  Three times this month they've mounted  streaks of at least five wins or more.  Slated to pitch Tuesday's series finale at Redland Field are Burleigh Grimes for Brooklyn versus Hod Eller for the Reds.

• RECORD: 52-35 (.597)
• First Place; 2.0 GA

100 Years Ago Today 7/14/1920: Brooklyn Robins Sweep Second Twin Bill at Cubs Park

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National league Champions

Game #81: Wednesday, July 14, 1920, GAME ONE - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Chicago Cubs (make-up 5/12/1920)
Cubs Park

Ivy Olson's Fifth Inning Clout Lifts Robins

In a game decided in the sixth inning Brooklyn edges the Cubs by a 3-2 margin.  Al Mamaux toes the rubber and is opposed by Chicago's veteran southpaw Lefty Tyler.  After a scoreless duel through the first five innings, Brooklyn strikes for three runs in the sixth.  Ed Konetchy leads off the frame with a triple to deep center, then scores on Ernie Krueger's base hit to right.  With two outs Ivy Olson connects off Tyler on his first home of the season.  Chicago strikes back.  With two outs and the bases jammed in the bottom half of the frame center fielder Dode Paskert singles to left plating two.  But the Cubs would score no more.  When Al Mamaux puts the tying run on third base in the home ninth, Wilbert Robinson immediately turns to Burleigh Grimes whom puts out the fire and rewards his manager with his second save of the season.  Al Mamaux allows the two aforementioned runs on just six hits and three walks with seven strikeouts for his seventh victory against five losses with a stellar 1.96 earned run average.


Game #82: Wednesday, July 14, 1920, GAME TWO - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Chicago Cubs
Cubs Park

Jeff Pfeffer and Robins Complete Twin Bill Sweep at Cubs Park

Behind the effort of pitcher Jeff Pfeffer Brooklyn cruises to a 4-1 game two victory and twin bill sweep over the Cubs.  Facing Chicago starter Paul Carter, Brooklyn's Ivy Olson, Jimmy Johnston, and Tommy Griffith, open the game with three straight hits and a run.  Ivy Olson scores in the third on Zack Wheat's double to left.  Brooklyn then caps off their scoring in the sixth.  Zack Wheat hits a leadoff triple and promptly scores on a Hi Myers double.  With two outs Rowdy Elliot singles home Myers.  Jeff Pfeffer allows just one earned run on five hits and one walk with three strikeouts to earn his seventh victory of the season.  Despite Cincinnati's defeat of the Phillies, Brooklyn still gains a half-game on the day.

• RECORD: 48-33 (.592)
• First Place; 1 GA

100 Years Ago Today 7/10/1920: Brooklyn Robins Extend First Place Lead Over Reds

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #76: Saturday, July 10, 1920 - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. St. Louis Cardinals
Sportsman's Park

Jeff Pfeffer Earns Fifth Victory at Sportsman's Park; Robins Take Full Game Lead Over Second Place Reds.

The Robins continue surging upward, establishing an early 3-2 lead which they maintain through the sixth.  After which they bust out in the seventh inning with four more runs off Cardinals starter Marv Goodwin en route to a a 7-2 final at Sportsman's Park.  Brooklyn's table setters atop the lineup Ivy Olson and Jimmy Johnston join together for six hits in ten at-bats with four runs scored.  Hi Myers (.305) is 2 for 4 with two runs batted in.  Tommy Griffith and right field substitution Ray Schmandt also drive in one run apiece.  On the mound Jeff Pfeffer outlasts his opponent allowing two earned runs on nine hits and three walks with three strikeouts through nine innings complete.  It's Pfeffer's third straight victory, improving his record now to 6-8 with a 2.72 ERA.  He also helps himself out with a 2 for 3 day the plate with a run scored, and one run batted in.  The Reds split a twin bill with the Braves at Cincinnati.  Therefore the Robins extend their lead over the Reds to one full game.  They are now 12-2 over their last fourteen games.  Brooklyn is also averaging seven runs a game through the first seven games of this road trip, while allowing an average of just under three runs a game.

• RECORD: 43-32
• First Place; 1 GA

100 Years Ago Today 7/5/1920: Brooklyn Robins Sweep Twin Bill at Braves Field

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champion

Game #70: Monday, July 5, 1920, GAME ONE - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Boston Braves
Braves Field 

Zack Wheat Powers Comeback

Down by three runs entering the ninth the Robins score three times tying the game at five, then erupt with four more runs in the tenth inning to seize victory in game one of Monday's twin bill at Braves Field.  None of Boston's three hurlers escapes unscathed.  Starter Jake Scott, who last week on this very mound limits the Robins to just one run over nine innings, is tagged for two runs on four hits and three walks in just 3.1 innings pitched.  Braves manager George Stallings summons Brooklyn's next victim, Joe Oeschger, whom allows three runs on eight hits and two walks over the next 5.1 innings.  The Robins complete their comeback with four runs on five hits including Zack Wheat's fourth home run of the season against Dana Fillingam whom suffers his ninth loss.  Zack Wheat is 3 for 6 with a double, home run, one run scored, and four runs batted in.  Ed Konetchy likewise is 3 for 6 with two runs batted in.  Hi Myers rounds out a the hitting attack by the middle of the order with a 3 for 5 day at the plate.  The three join together for nine hits and six runs batted in.  The beneficiaries of all this offense are Al Mamaux and Sherry Smith whom earns his fourth win of the season.  The two join together on four scoreless innings allowing just two hits and one walk in relief of starter Rube Marquard.  After yielding no more than two runs over his last five starts, Marquard on this day surrenders five runs, four earned, on seven hits (including a home run to left fielder Les Mann), and one walk with five strikeouts but escapes with a no decision.


Game #71: Monday, July 5, 1920, GAME TWO - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Boston Braves
Braves Field

Robins Gain on Reds; Half Game Out of First Place

Brooklyn with a 5-2 victory in game two sweeps Monday's twin bill at Braves Field.  By doing so they gain two full games on the first place Reds who lose a double-header at Pittsburgh.  Starter Jeff Pfeffer leads the way with his fifth victory of the season.  He allows two runs, just one earned, on twelve hits and no walks through nine innings pitched, and aids his own cause with a hit, run scored, and one run batted in.  Boston's Jack Scott who appears in game one, allows five runs on eight hits and a walk through nine.  Ivy Olson triples to drive in a run, and Pete Kilduff is 1 for 4 with a run scored, and one run batted in.  After a troublesome month of June the Robins are now 8-1 over their last nine and winners of four in a row to close within one-half game of first place.

• RECORD: 39-31 (.557)
• 2nd place; 0.5 GB

100 Years Ago Today 6/25/1920: Brooklyn Robins and Boston Split Friday Twin Bill at Braves Field

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #56: Friday, June 25, 1920, GAME ONE - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Boston Braves
Braves Field

Leon Cadore's Fine Effort Leads Robins to Third Straight

After posting a 6-9 home stand perhaps it's best Brooklyn hit the road.  Arriving in Boston Friday's first game against the Braves makes up a May 4 postponement.  Leon Cadore returns to the scene of his 26-inning effort back on May 1, from which some say he is yet to fully recover.  However on this day he appears just fine surrendering a lone unearned run on seven hits and two walks with three strikeouts through nine complete.  When Braves starter Bill Fillingim walks the bases load in the first inning manager George Stallings yanks him from the box with haste.  With one out Hi Myers lofts a sacrifice fly to center scoring Pete Kilduff from third.  Otherwise reliever Bunny Hearns puts out an early fire.  That is, until Hi Myers drives in Brooklyn's second run in the third.  Afterward runs batted in from Jimmy Johnston, pinch hitter Bernie Neis, and getting a start at shortstop Bill McCabe, round out the scoring in a 5-1 final.  Leon Cadore wins his fifth against four losses with a 1.69 earned run average.


Game #57: Friday, June 25, 1920, GAME TWO - BR
Brooklyn Robins vs. Boston Braves
Braves Field

Boston Gains Split; Jeff Pfeffer Outdone by Braves Jack Scott

Boston strikes back on the strength of starter Jack Scott's right arm outperforming that of trusted Brooklyn hurler Jeff Pfeffer.  Scott yields single runs batted in from Jimmy Johnston and Zack Wheat, but little else.  The Robins manage just six hits, two by Otto Miller, and draw a mere two walks against Jack Scott who wins his sixth decision of the season against three loses.  Boston shortstop Hod Ford is big man on campus going 2 for 4 with a triple and three runs batted in.  Pfeffer's line reads four earned runs on eight hits and three walks with one strikeout.  He falls to 3-8 with a 3.18 ERA.

• RECORD: 31-25 (.553)
• 2nd place; 1.5 GB

100 Years Ago Today 6/22/1920: Pirates Defeat Brooklyn Robins in Series Opener

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #53: Tuesday, June 22, 1920 - BR
Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Brooklyn Robins
Ebbets Field

Pittsburgh Pirates Take Series Opener; Add to Brooklyn's Woes

New day, different opponent, same result, the Brooklyn Robins lose another game and drop to 4-9 during this current home stand.  Their latest defeat comes at the hands of the Pittsburgh Pirates, whom climb back above .500 at the Robins expense.  Meanwhile the game marks Brooklyn's fourth straight loss, and the eighth loss in their last nine games.  You might call Tuesday's respective starting pitchers fire starters.  Each is given the hook after just two innings pitched.  Pittsburgh's Elmer Ponder yields three runs on two hits and one walk, while Jeff Pfeffer surrenders four runs on four hits and one walk.  Pittsburgh manager George Gibson summons his ace Wilbur Cooper in for relief.  Wilbert Robinson reciprocates calling upon Burleigh Grimes with two outs in the third.  Brooklyn actually gets the better of Cooper, but the damage had already been done.  The Pirates who strike for 16 hits, lead 7-6 after three innings, and add two more runs in the seventh.  The Robins muster one run in the bottom of the ninth but end the game with runners stranded on the corners.  Cooper surrenders four runs on nine hits and two walks through seven innings for the win.  Burleigh Grimes surrenders two runs, one earned, on seven hits and one walk through 6.1 innings, however Jeff Pfeffer is stuck with the loss.  Hi Myers remains steady going 3 for 5 with a double, two runs scored, and a run batted in.  And the struggling Zack Wheat shows signs of life going 2 for 3 with a run batted in.  The loss drops Brooklyn into third place.  They are now 2.5 games out of first, the furthest they've been out of the top spot so far this season.

• RECORD: 28-24 (.538)
• 3rd place; 2.5 GB

100 Years Ago Today 6/15/1920: Brooklyn Robins Lose Three of Four to Cincinnati Reds

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #50: Tuesday, June 15, 1920 - BR
Cincinnati Reds vs. Brooklyn Robins
Ebbets Field

DEFENDING CHAMPIONS TAKE SERIES FROM ROBINS THREE GAMES TO ONE

The Reds score early and often, above and beyond what the Robins can withstand.  Jeff Pfeffer is wholly ineffective, reliever Clarence Mitchell more so.  Making his ninth start of the season Pfeffer yields five earned runs on eight hits and one walk in just three innings pitched.  Clarence Mitchell records just one out before being relieved himself but not before surrendering another three runs on four hits.  Cincinnati southpaw Dutch Ruether despite allowing five runs on nine hits and five walks  improves to 11-3 with a 1.82 ERA.  For Brooklyn Hi Myers and Pete Kilduff each drive in two runs apiece, and Ed Konetchy goes 2 for 5 with one run batted in.  However the Robins leave ten men on base and are just 3 for 13 with runners in scoring position.  Despite homering in yesterday's contest Zack Wheat is now 2 for 26 (.076) over his last seven games.  The Robins have now lost six of their last eight games.  Meanwhile the Reds take the series three games to one, and reclaim sole possession of first place.

• RECORD: 28-21 (.571)
• 2nd place; 0.5 GB

100 Years Ago Today 6/9/1920: Brooklyn Robins Even Series with Cardinals

From the desk of: FINGERPRINTS OF THE BUMS

100th Anniversary

BROOKLYN ROBINS

1920 National League Champions

Game #44: Wednesday, June 9, 1929 - BR
St. Louis Cardinals vs. Brooklyn Robins
Ebbets Field

Robins Seize Upon Cardinal Errors

Brooklyn pulls even with St. Louis at a game apiece.  Two errors in the seventh inning by Cardinals shortstop Doc Lavan and center fielder Jack Smith pave the way for Otto Miller scoring the go ahead run and an eventual 3-2 margin of victory.  Miller scores on a wild pitch back in the second, and in the fifth Ivy Olson drives in his fourteenth run this season.  Starter Jeff. Pfeffer yields two runs on seven hits and two walks with five strikeouts for his third victory of the season.  Today's victory coupled with Cincinnati's loss against the Giants give the Robins a 2.5 game lead over the defending champion Reds.  After sitting out the last eight games with an injury Zack Wheat returns to the lineup.

• RECORD: 27-16 (.627)
• 1st place; 2.5 GA