THE HISTORY OF SYRACUSE BASEBALL - CHAPTER 17 - JOSEPH E. KREN BAT COMPANY & ALL-TIME MODERN ALL-STAR NATIVE SYRACUSE BASEBALL TEAM .

One very special story that has to be told is that of the Joseph G. Kren Bat Company Joe Kren was born in Vienna, Austria in 1868. He served as a wood-turner's apprentice in Germany before arriving in America in the 1880's. He first settled in Jordon, N.Y. moving to Syracuse a short time later. Joe Kren was employed by the wood shop of Kent-Bupee. While in their employ he became interested in the game of baseball.

Most neighborhood boys were now playing this popular game using sticks to hit with as none could afford manufactured bats. Joe Kren spent many lunch hours making wooden stick bats for his young neighbors. His love for the game soon found him managing a team of Syracuse youths. He made bats for each player and soon the word spread of their excellence.

A gifted artist. Mr. Kren took great pride in each and every bat he made. Soon many semi-pro and professional teams requested the Kren model bats, With each order he tried to build a better bat, his reputation spread across the entire nation. The Kren Bat Company manufactured over five million baseball bats right here in Syracuse. Mr. Kren and his son's Frank, Henry, Walter and Joseph Jr. supplied bats for many major league clubs that included, Connie Mack's Philadelphia Athletics and the New York Giants. Kren bats were also popular with Internationals League clubs as Montreal, Toronto, Buffalo and Syracuse. His "Kren's Specials" were used by such players as Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Rogers Hornsby, Mel Ott, Frankie Frisch, Jimmy Foxx, Eddie Collins, Honus Wagner, Jimmy Walsh and Bill Kelly.

The original factory at 114 Beecher Street turned out about 12,00 bats a year. By 1940 that number had jumped to 110,000. The factory was destroyed by fire in 1939, them relocated to the Easy Washer building at 717 Clinton Street and then to their final location at 212 Bear Street. Kren Bats were sold in every state along with Mexico, Canada and Europe.

Holy Trinity Church honored Joe Kren in 1952 as there "Man of the Year". Many greats from the world of sports were present. Connie Mack, Jack Dempsey, Warren Giles. Honus Wagner, Gene Tunney, Al Cervi, Frank Shaughnessy, George Stroh, Roy Simmons Sr and New York Giants president Horace Stoneham.

In addition to being a pioneer in his field, Joseph Kren was believed to be the oldest living bat manufacturer in the United States. He once told Syracuse resident & International League Hall of Famer Bill Kelly "Bill if you use these bats you'll hit a home run every time". Well Bill almost did as he blasted 44 homer to lead the International League.

Joesph Kren left us on September 18, 1953. Tributes coming from every corner of the country saluting this great man. The Kren Bat Company was eventually sold to the Wood Shovel and Tool Company of Whilte Mills, Pa. Mr. Kren's tools were donated to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown. Joseph G. Kren was inducted into the Syracuse Baseball Wall of Fame in 2011.

May 16, 1937, Syracuse sports columnist Jimmy Daley picked his "All-Time Modern All-Star Native Syracuse Baseball Team". This team, listed below list players from 1900 through 1937. They are-

Pitchers-
Bill Dinneen. Doc Scanlon, George "Hooks' Wiltse, Reggie Grabowski, Bob Becker & Al Grabowski

Catchers

Bill Stroh, Joe McCarthy & George Stroh

Infielders-

Bill Kelly, Billy Dunn, Jimmy Doyle & Billy O'Brien

Outfielders-

Jimmy Walsh, Dick Trainor & Walter Tobin

Best Utility - George Stroh

In an interview I had with Bill Kelly (then 90) the three time International League Hall of Fame and the Syracuse Baseball Wall of Famer claimed one player was missing from that list. That name was Parker Knapp. Kelly stated 'Kanpp was one of the great players and the best  pure hitter I've ever seen, to bad he spent his entire career playing semi-pro". That exception is three games Knapp played for the Syracuse Stars  in 1920.

CARLOS DELGADO - INDUCTED INTO THE SYRACUSE BASEBALL WALL OF FAME-

At the Syracuse Chiefs Hot Stove Event at the  Liverpool, Holiday Inn last night (Feb 3). Syracuse Wall of Fame Committee Chairman Ron Gersbacher announce the "New" Class of Inductees for 2012.. This years Class will include  slugger Carlos Delgado ( Toronto, Florida & NY Mets) who was on hand to accept his induction plaque. Others to be inducted on August 18, 2012 will be Stu Pederson, Scott McGregor, Dan Clark, Frank Riccelli and Philip S. Ryder

The Hot Stove Event attended by close to 400 fans started at 7 PM. A large silent auction was held to benefit Chiefs Charities. The event MC was Doug Logan who did a splendid job.

Special guests included-  from the Washington Nationals- Bob Boone (Ast GM/ VP of Player Development), Doug Harris (Director of Player Development), Bryan Minnitti (Asst General Manager), Mark Scialabba (Director of Minor League Operations) Ryan Thomas (Coordinator of Minor League Operations). International League President Randy Mobley, former major league pitcher Bill Monbouquette, Chiefs new manager- Tony Beasley, and Chiefs infielder Seth Bynum.

Director Bill Eberhardt introduced Mike Frost of Ovations Food Serice the new stadium concessioner
Director/Lease Committee Chairman- Bob Scalione announced the the Chiefs & Onondaga had come to an agreement on a new stadium lease.Then introduced County Executive Joanne Mahoney. The lease would be voted on by the Onondaga County Legislature on Tuesday Feb 7.

Chiefs Awards- Presented

Tom Higgins Bullpen Chiefs Award- George Schunck

 Jake Meyers-Great Guy Award- Victor Gallucci

THE HISTORY OF SYRACUSE BASEBALL - CHAPTER 16 - NO PRO BALL, BUT GREAT SEMI-PRO'S, POST STANDARD, HERALD JOURNAL & INDUSTRIAL LEAGUES

With the departure of the Syracuse Stars there wouldn't be professional baseball until the formation of the Syracuse Chiefs some five years later. But Syracuse baseball was not dead. The Post Standard, Journal (Journal-American League) and the Herald Newspaper;'s all sponsored great semi-pro baseball leagues between 1930 and 1934. Also various organizations sponsored pro exhibition contests at Star Park. A few of the more memorable games were- August 7, 1939, the Philadelphia Phillie's with Chuck Klein and Tommy Thevenow downed Liverpool 10-1. September 9, 1930- the Pittsburgh Pirates stopped Skaneatles and pitcher Reggie Grabowski 9-1. The Pirates brought Pie Traynor, Paul & Lloyd Waner and Max Carey. August 6, 1931- the House of David with Grover Cleveland Alexander defeated the Byrne Sieberlings 5-3 in a game played in Fulton, NY. This classic contest was played before only 2,000 people.

The Byrne Sieberlings (1920-30's) sponsored by the J. P. Byrne Tire Company featured some of Syracuse's greatest semi-pro ball players. George & Oscar Dear, Tommy Allen, Andy Burns, Henry "Dutch" Dotterer Sr, Don Miller (1927 NY Yankee), Vic Hanson (SU All-American, "Gotch" Carr,  Louis "Doc" Morgan. and Parker Knapp the greatest hiiting in CNY semi-pro history

In a sad moment July 3, 1931, the Star Park grandstand and bleachers were destroyed by fire. The fire started during the third innings of the LeMoyne Athletic Club- Sacred Heart game. Six houses and seven auto's were slightly damaged and estimates were listed at several thousand dollars.

Long time sports writer, Jimmy Daley articles called "Sixty Years of Baseball in Syracuse" recalls. "Central New York has always had some of New York States greatest semi-pro nines". "Back in 1894, the strongest rivalries were between the Shamrocks, Ironsides and the Pastime Athletic Club". "The Shamrocks had a big Irish following from the cities West End". "The Pastimes had a strong German following from the cities north side, while The Ironsides were prime favorites with east side fans".

Patty and John Dorsey's west side nine known as the Shamrocks were the first to showcase the talents of the great pitcher Bill Dinneen. Dinneen's talent was not noticed by the hometown Stars, but signed on with Toronto. He would become the first American League pitcher to win three games in the first World Series  of 1903 as a member of the Boston Pilgrims. Bill was also inducted in Syracuse Baseball Wall of Fame.

The Shamrocks lineup at various time featured Dinneen along with George & Bill Stroh (Red Sox), Mike & Pete Moriarity, Gene Ryan, Jim O'Neil, Dan Crowe, Mike Phillips, Steve Marooney, Ted Ryan, Ned Barry, Harry Hogan and Syracuse Chief of Police Tom Carroll at name a few.

The Pastime Athletic Club was led by pitchers Eddie Goettel (long time grounds keeper at MacArthur Stadium) and George Villeman.

At the turn of the century St. Cecilia's nine became City League Champion under president James Doyle and manager Bob Keefe. Led by Bill "Bobby" Scanlon (later called "Doc" soon signed with Brooklyn), Billy O'Brien (signed by Athletics), Lou Salmon (Notre Dame), Charlie DeMong (later Syracuse Stars owner in 1918) and Billy & John Dunn (sons of Stars founder John J. Dunn), Chuck Freeman (Princeton) and Nick Peters (Manhattan College), George Ford, Lew Long and Joe Dempsey.

St. Cecilas managed by Art Keefe would meet the powerful Shamrocks in a best of three contests. Athletic Field was the site as 3,500 fans paid a 25-cent admission. Bobby Scanlon defeated Gene Ryan to win game one. In game two, it was scoreless for seven innings. Shamrocks scored two in the eighth, St Cecilas tied it in the ninth on Billy O'Briens's double. Then Billy Dunn the Syracuse High School phenom (baseball & football) hit a home run with two on and two outs to win the game for St. Cecilas 5-2.

Billy Dunn went on to play for the Stars and enjoyed 20+ years in the sport. He ended his baseball career as freshman baseball coach at Syracuse University. Both Billy O'Brien and "Doc" Scanlon attended Fordham College. Scanlon transferred to Syracuse University's Medical School and hurled for the S.U. varsity for one season on his way to the major leagues.

Tom Malone's Foresters featured a number of the cities formidable players. Former Cincinnati pitcher - Henry Fournier led a who's who of great baseball talent. Joe McCarthy, Walter Tobin, Frank Stroh (Boston), Peck Malone, Jimmy Daley, Jack Gallaghrer and Billy Dunn.

Other team's worth mentioning were the Nettleton Shoe Company (Whitey Bach, George & Oscar Dear), Emeralds (Paul Steinberg), Ermines (George There, Eddie Goettel), Jackson's (Dick Trainor, Tom Rafferty), H.H. Franklin's (Bill Kelly), Iona's (Walt Harnish, Bill Savage), Liverpool (George Orth), Electras (Tad Gaughan), Long Branch Stars ( Bernie Maurer), Burns Athletic Club (Andy Burns), Brown Lipe-Chapin Co (Parker Knapp) and the Seymours (Jimmy Walsh, Jimmy Doyle).

Both Jimmy Walsh and Jimmy Doyle would become major leagues. Walsh played professionally with Connie Mack's Athletics, Yankees and Red Sox. Jimmy Doyle's story is not to happy. He played a number of seasons in the old Western League then signed with the Cincinnati Reds. It was then on to the Chicago Cubs. Doyle played along side the trio known as Tinkers to Evers to Chance (all Hall of Famers) double play combination. I'm sad to report that Jimmy Doyle died on February 1 as a result of complications from a appendicitis operation. Jimmy Doyle's death was probably the saddest story in Syracuse's long baseball history. Doyle left a wife and young child. The Chicago Cubs would play a benefit game in Syracuse with all proceeds going to the Doyle family.

With the newly created interest in the Herald-American and Post Standard League's in the 1930's. Syracuse Mayor Rolly Marvin resided to build a new 3,000 seat ball park. Two locations were put under advisory. First Kirk Park, it could handle all over flow weekend crowds. But indignation voiced by several committees of south side residence visited city hall to oppose building a stadium at the Kirk Park location. Then residence from a wide area on each side of the Kirk Park location joined in protest.

Meanwhile George Easterly an Alderman of the 1st Ward put in an application for the ball field to be located on the LeMoyne Park tract (near Hiawatha Blvd) on the cities north side. Mr. Easterly declared that the 1st Ward will become the new park with open arms. The LeMoyne tract's 28 acres has ample area to accommodate it.

The Herald Newspaper of April 25, 1933 reported. "Mayor Marvin was satisfied to accept judgement of the south side residents not to locate the new ball park at Kirk Park and placed it in a district that really wants it, the north side".

Herald newspaper sports editor Bob Kenefick was instrumental in having parks built in Oswego, Fulton, Liverpool, Rome, Cortland, Long Branch Park and Watertown for the Journal-American semi-pro league in 1933. The teams represented were, Auburn, Oswego, Camden, Liverpool, Fulton along with Syracuse's Marksons, Byrne Sieberlings and Chappie Johnson's All-Stars (an all black team). That first season Don Miller's Oswego team defeated the Marksons for the league championship.

In the next few years new teams as the Brooklyn Royal Giants, Ithaca, Cortland. Leaburys Clothing Store, the Syracuse Black Chiefs, Utica-Camden and the Mohawk Black Giants all enjoyed success. Auburn won the league title in 1934, Ithaca in 1935, and Mohawk in 1936.

 What was called one of the greatest semi-pro encounter ever in Central New York, pitted the Marksons against Oswego before 5,486 fans at Long Branch park in 1933. Al Grabowski the former St. Louis Cardinal and ex-Syracuse Star, took the mound for the Marksons. Don Miller formerly of Central High, University of Michigan, N.Y. Yankee of 1927, and great semi-pro hurled for the Oswego Zetts. Both clubs were fighting for the league championship. The game was scoreless going into the eleventh frame. Routcliff of Oswego hit a double off Grabowski, then sacrificed to third, and scored on a long fly ball as Oswego won this great contest 1-0.

1933, was also the year the House of David returned, this time with 'Hall of Fame" pitcher Chiefs Bender on the mound. Bender's team played two games against local teams on August 8 & 9. In the first game they defeated Byrne Sieberlings 13-8, but the next day was defeated by Chappie Johnson's (Negro) All-Stars 5-4. This was the first defeat handed the House of David against a Syracuse team in five years.


A few weeks later Connie Mack's Philadelphia Athletics paid a visit. 2,500 attended the August 30. 1933 game at Long Branch Park. There opponents were the Marksons managed by ex-Athletic Jimmy Walsh. Philadelphia brought with them Jimmy Foxx, Max Bishop, Doc Framer, Bing Miller and "Lefty" Groves. Dick Garrett and :Lefty" Groves pitched against John Conner and "Foxey" Sagehorn. The Marksons were led by  Ken Beagle (SU  Basketball's Reindeer Five), Jimmy Walsh and John Zilbertiu. The 10-4 Athletic victory wasn't the real story that day.

"Lefty" Groves pitched the ninth inning. As Groves entered the game the Athletic outfielders left their positions and entered the infield. With no outfielders he proceeded striking out the first three Markson batters. First, Bob Williams on three pitches, then Paul Glover on three pitches, and finally Steve Nuthatch on three pitches (one a foul ball). The three batters had struck out on 9 pitched balls.

Herald Journal columnist Joe Ganley reminisced about the game. "Ed Markson the Syracuse native and team mascot still has vivid memories of that game". Markson remembers, "When Groves went to the mound at the insistence of Jimmy Walsh the Markson players cried out against it, frightened at the speed of Groves pitches". "If that ball hits you in the head it will kill you". Markson remembers that the umpire calling balls and strikes was so frightened at the though of a Groves fastball that he umpired from behind the pitcher's mound the last inning.

Grove's 31-4 pitching record had led the Athletics to the American League championship back in 1931. He also won the league's "MVP" Award that season just nosing out the "Iron Horse" Lou Gehrig.

THE HISTORY OF SYRACUSE BASEBALL - CHAPTER 15 - I.L. BASEBALL GONE, MICHAEL J. KELLY, BABE RUTH & LOU GEHRIG RETURN, NEW YORK PENN LEAGUE

With the transfer of the St. Louis Cardinals to Rochester professional baseball appeared doomed leaving Syracuse without International League Baseball. Warren Giles & Branch Rickey name's were the most disliked at this juncture of Syracuse baseball history. Given the opportunity to leave with the Cardinals and relocate in Rochester, Michael J. Kelly the longtime team secretary decided to remain in Syracuse. He invested his own personal funds, solicited Harry Ryan and John Putnam for the balance and purchased the Shamokin franchise in an attempt to bring professional baseball back to Syracuse. A franchise was secured in the New York Pennsylvania League. Stock was sold at $100 per share, and a total of 250 shares were issued. Mr. Kelly needed all his 27 years of experience in baseball to promote this lower class of pro ball. Mike served as president, secretary and treasurer of the 1928 Stars team and managed to bring the club through a trying season, although taking a personal financial loss..

 Mr. Kelly secured the services of Michael Joyce O'Neil to manager the the club to another sixth place finish (64-74), with Harrisburg taking the league title. But the 1928 Stars did posses some good hitters and finished third in team batting. Players like Syracuse University products. Harlon "Gotch" Carr (.291) and Vic Hanson (.244). Along with Harry Davis, Booby Reece, Bob Richards, Lew Wilski  and John Roseberry.  Roseberry would lead in New York State League in doubles with 40. The pitchers having the greatest success were John  Doyle (14-10), Paul "Sheriff" Sherman (13-14) and John Milligan (12-7). Milligan was sold to the Philadelphia Nationals on August 5 to bring in some badly needed income. Local semi-pro pitching sensation Ray Mertens also made his pro debut at Star Park (West Genesee St.) that colorless season.

Looking back on the many memorable moments in Syracuse Baseball History, the one event that many old-timers still talk about today is the Babe Ruth - Lou Gehrig exhibition played at Star Park on October 21, 1928.

During the 1920 & 30's. ballplayers would  'barnstorm" after the playing season, playing from city to city earning extra money. Lou Gehrig & Babe Ruth two of baseball's greatest name, would pick up local semi-pro and professional players in each city and put on a show. The game in Syracuse was arranged by Ruth's agent Christy Walsh. But despite a rainstorm that had washed out the affair a week earlier, the parties agreed to play the following weekend to the cities delight.

The "Bambino" would team up with the Post Standard League Champions the Sacred Heart Athletic Club. The Sacred Hearts included  Al & Reggie Grabowski, Emmitt Slake, Oscar Dear, Frank Mack, Joe Orsell, John Crouse, Joe Stanski, Bill Skay, Tony Weaver and a youngster John Rutkowski. Rutkowski, who six years later would become the box office manager of the Syracuse Chiefs. A position he held for the next 45 years.

Gehrig's All-Stars consisted of International League home run champion Bill Kelly ( I.L Hall of Famer), Jimmy Walsh (who played with the Athletics, Yankees and Red Sox), Dutch Dotterer Sr. (Cardinals). and semi-pro players- Parker Knapp, Ed Ryan, Bob Tubbert. Lukes Diamonds, Jim Kerwin, Billy Eisemann (S.U.), Tom Costello, Ray Mertens (Stars) and George Dear.

Over 3,500 fans packed tiny Star Park as the "Larrupin Lou's" defeated the "Bustin Babes" 9-2. Gehrig thrilled the on-lookers by blasting a home run in four at bats. While Bill Kelly took a Babe Ruth pitch deep and pounded out three hits. Ruth was considered by many as one of greatest pitchers of his era before moving to the outfield full time. Ruth was quoted as saying "I pitched pretty good that inning until I threw to Bill Kelly and he hit the ball so far out of the park they may never find it".

The Babe played first base, and singled in four trips to the plate before replacing Al Grabowski on the mound. Centerfielder Jimmy Walsh had two hits, while Henry "Dutch" Dotterer singled in five trips.

The game was a success, and afterwards both Ruth and Gehrig took time to sign everyone's baseballs and scorecards. Lunch was served at what known in the 1960-80's as Del's Fish Fry on State Fair Blvd. Former owner Stella Stevens recalls Babe downing 18 hot dogs before he took the field that afternoon.. A post game party was held at Haberles Brewery on Butternut Street on the city's north side. Ruth watched a customer lie on his back with a glass of beer on his forehead and stand up without spilling a drop. This was to much for the Babe, so on a bet he claimed he could do the same. A hour or so later, covered with beer the "Mighty Bambino" had met his match at the amusement of all.

In the early spring of 1929, Michael J. Kelly could not keep the team afloat. The Stars went through bankruptcy. After only a $250 offer at the bankruptcy hearing was not accepted, H.P Jergensen and Joseph Lechick purchased the team from the bank. The price did not include uniforms and equipment as they had already been sold. Mike Kelly served as secretary of Shamokin and Scranton clubs in the N.Y.P. League for the next two years. Then made his home in Buffalo for a year, but in ill health and missing his Syracuse friends, returned to this city. Michael J. Kelly remained a baseball figure as he served as first president of the Post Standard Baseball League. His happiest days were realized in 1942, when the Syracuse Chiefs battled in the Little World Series. Upon pro baseball's return a few years later, Mike Kelly became one of the Syracuse Chiefs greatest rooter, Sadly Mike Kelly left us on November 3, 1942,

The New York Penn League opened on April 30, 1929 with a 5-2 victory over Binghamton. New manager was Irving "Kasier" Wilhelm could only achieve fifth place by June. The club was still losing money and could not make payroll. On June 2, the Stars were taken over by the league. This was a result of backer from Rochester bid for the club was denied. Their bid was withdrawn after a disagreement with N.Y.P. League president John H. Farrell. Manager Wilhelm tried to scrap money to pay the players, but on June 15, 1929, the franchise was shifted to Hazelton, Pa as their record read 19-23. Wilhelm not only lost his financial help, but his managerial position upon the teams transfer. The Syracuse Star had made its last hit and scored its last run. It's name now though of only as a baseball legend.

Note- This was not the only time Syracuse fans didn't except the lower class of pro ball, it would happen again following the 1955 season when the Chiefs I.L. franchise was sold to Miami, Florida interests. For a second time the NYP League was tied (by Joe Reardon) but to no avail. The 1957 Chiefs were shifted  to Allentown, Pa in July 1957. Maybe we can learn something as it happening twice. Maybe the Syracuse baseball fans did not, and will not except or support a lower class of professional baseball. ?

THE HISTORY OF SYRACUSE BASEBALL - CHAPTER 14 - ST. LOUIS CARDINAL YEARS CONTINUE 1925-27

In 1925, new faces appeared, "Henie" Meine won 17 games. Binghamton, NY' native  "Wild Bill" Hallahan was sold to St Louis after just eight appearances. Tommy Thevenow a sparkling young defensive shortstop arrived, Franklyn Wetzel hit .319, and the first professional appearances of local Syracuse pitching phenom Al Grabowski.  Grabowski the former semi-pro pitcher with the Sacred Hearts won 6 and lost but 2 games. At seasons end, Tommy Thevenow would be selected as  the International League's All-Star shortstop. Second team selections included- George Krahn and "Henie" Meine. Note Thevenow would later be inducted into the Syracuse Baseball Hall of Fame.

A quick note- my father Frank W. Gersbacher as a youth witnessed Thevenows play at Star Park that season and considered him the top defensive shortstop he had ever seen. Now that's a big statement for dad to make as he also witnessed the great skills of shortstops  Ray Oyler (Detroit years) and Tony Fernandez (Blue Jay years) in later life

Another new International League record was set by Star's second sacker Garde "Whitey" Gialasen in the first half of a double header against Rochester on September 3. The day Gialasen made 11 putouts in a regulation nine inning contest, behind winning pitcher Fred Frankhouse. The old mark was set by John "Cub" Stricker of Providence in a extra inning contest vs (10) vs Binghamton May 18, 1894..

After a years absence, two more exhibition contests dotted the Stars schedule. June 19, the Stars took revenge by hammering the St. Louis Cardinals 12-2. Rogers Hornsby and company could gather only five hits off Star hurler Bill Ward. The second, a date to remember, the appearance of one George Herman "Babe" Ruth with the New York Yankees. On that day August 19, 1924, the "Mighty Bambino" singled twice in four tries and the Stars downed the New Yorkers 12-8. That game was held in Archbold Stadium before 10,000 screaming fans. The highlight may have happened before the contest even started. As the :Mighty Babe" hit a batting practice pitch out of Archbold Stadium over the top of the press box. roof in right field. Some fans there that day called it "The longest ball ever hit out of Archbold".

Henry "Hi" Myers took charge of the Stars on Decoration Day 1925, replacing Frank Shaughnessy under who's leadership the Stars had won just 10 of 39 games. When the season ended the Stars were in sixth place (74-87). Under "Hi" Myers they played .525 ball and that was better than all other teams except Baltimore and Toronto.

Roy Fairman article on "Famous Syracuse Games" states "One of the features of the "Hi" Myers reign was the transformation (temporary) of Fred Frankhouse from pitcher to outfielder". :Frankhouse became a permanent outfielder around July 20 and in 64 games had 17 assists and started five double plays". "In Baltimore one afternoon he threw men out at second, third and at the plate". " Frankhouse was signed by Charley Kelchner for the Cardinals". "He then came to the Stars while Ernest Landraf was team president, in a deal that let St. Louis obtain Jewel Ens". Frankhouse's five year stint with the Stars led to the major leagues with St' Louis and the Boston Braves.

Tommy Thevenow was again rock steady at short, Chick Hafey (later to be a Hall of Famer) patrolled center field for 21 games batting .285, Dan Clark broke the Star record for :hitting percentage at .364, followed by Bert Griffith at .337, Fred Frankhouse .332, ":Wattie" Holm .326, "Hi" Myers .316 and George Krahe .301.

 The major event of the 1925 season was Al Grabowski's 1-0 no-hitter vs Providence on August 22. The no-hitter was in the first of a scheduled doubleheader that saw the winning run score with two outs in the top of the ninth inning. Grabowski would pitch our home opened April 30 and win 15 games, his most successful as a Star hurler.

One player not mentioned in any record book as played in Syracuse  is Rick Farrell. Farrell another "Hall of Famer" played in a pre-season contest under the name of Rick Richards

After being rained out on July 21, the St. Louis Cardinals returned to the enjoyment of the Syracuse baseball loyalist for an exhibition September 1. This time the Cardinal's lineup was loaded with young talent. Jim Bottomley, Chuck Hafey, "Henie" Mueller, Lester Bell, Tommy Thevenow, Specs Toporcer and the veteran Rogers Hornsby who led the Cardinals to a victory that day 5-4.

Warren Giles replaced Phial Bartleme as club president in 1926. Mr. Giles had bet Branch Rickey back in 1920, went he had been working with Minneapolis optioning players from St. Louis and officiating football games to supplement his income. In later years, Mr. Giles would become President of the Cincinnati Reds, then President of the National League. Bert Shotten was signed as Stars manager and had more changes than wins. A seventh place finish didn't tell the whole story of the 1926 season.

John "Pepper" Martin dubbed in St. Louis the "Wild Horse of the Osage" graced a Stars uniform for a mere $325 a month. He alternated between third base and shortstop under Bert Shotton. Rumors were that "Pepper" arrived for Stars spring training camp at Greenwood, So. Carolina by jumping off a railroad freight car. Martin saved some of his monthly salary and was able to buy a second hand Model T Ford automobile for his return home to Oklahoma. Before his departure he was presented with a new shotgun, by grateful Syracuse fans.

In one of the strangest happenings, Bert Shotton let "Pepper" Martin pitch part of the eighth inning against Newark on September 1, When "Pepper" entered the clubhouse following the game he took with him this record: Batters pitched to 6, runs 4, hits 1, walks 2, hit batsmen 1, men retired 1 with a earned run average of 36.00. Joe Brown the Newark player hit by Martin was carted off to a local hospital and remained there for five days being unconscious for two.

"Pepper" Martin single-handled stole the 1931 World Series from the heavily favored Philadeplhia Athletics. In the first five games, he went 12 for 13, with five RBI's, five stolen bases and scored five runs. Martin was part of what was known as the "Gas House Gang" teaming with Dizzy & Paul Dean, Leo Durocher. "Ducky" Medwick, "Wild Bill" Hallahan and Central New Yorker (Mexico) "Rip" Collins. "Pepper" Martin is also a member of the Syracuse Baseball Wall of Fame.

The International League All-Star team of 1926, showed Star- Walter Roettger, Dan Clark and Ed Dyer all first team selections. This squad also included two native Syracuan's Bill Kelly (1b) and Jimmy Walsh (of) both played for the Buffalo Bisons. Both Kelly & Walsh would also be inducted into the Syracuse Baseball Wall of Fame.

Dan Clark (age 32) hit an amazing .364, while setting another International League record on July 17, 1926. Clarks' record is for most RBI's (9) in a nine inning contest. Clark a left-handed batter, hit a grand slam home run and then hit another with two men on. He then doubled in one more, so did an infield out in a 15-12 victory over Jersey City. Note- Dan Clark's 31 home runs that season was another Star record that would not be broken until Hank Sauer hit 50 in 1947 at MacArthur Stadium.

Key Star team members of note: Frank Hurst (.331). John Jones (.329), Fred Frankhouse (.314) Walter Roettger (.304), Bart Morrow (.303). "Pepper" Martin (.300), Al Kapl (.296) with pitchers Ed Dyer (12-6), Fred Frankhouse (9-11), Al Grabowski (6-11) and Russ Miller 12-15).

Managed again by Bert Shotton, the Stars won 102 games in 1927, but still finished second to Bill Clymer's Buffalo Bisons. At Buffalo's Offerman Stadium on July 31, Star pitcher Sylvester "Sly" Johnson no-hit the Bisons 2-0. Johnson at age 26, won 18 and lost 13 that year and Stars home attendance totalled 174,059

William Anthony "Wild Bill' Hallahan held the International League record for striking out six successive batters and fanned a total of 15 men in a seven inning game. The game was played on September 4, 1927, as the Star defeated the Reading Keys 14-0. Hallahan was bought in 1924 by the Cardinals for $2,500. Called "Wild Bill' for his wildness, he led the I.L. with 190 strikeouts in 1927.

Other baseball firsts. May 26, 1927, WSYR Radio broadcasts the first baseball game to Syracuse listeners The announcer was Lawrence Skiddy sports editor of the Herald Newspaper. The score of that first broadcast, Star 5, Buffalo Bison 3, with the victory going to Sly Johnson. The second broadcast happened  June 4, with  Francis Woolever another Syracuse newspaper sports columnist called the action between  Rochester and Syracuse that ended in a 8-8 tie.

The Stars held one more special day (August 28, 1927) honoring long time club secretary, Michael J. Kelly. Mr. Kelly became secretary of the Stars back in 1901. In 1920, he became secretary of the Syracuse International League club and remained in their employ, some 22 years. He is referred to as the stepfather of modern baseball in Syracuse.

 Finally the World Champion St Louis Cardinals paid a final visit to this city on July 6. It was a rain shortened four inning game won by St. Louis 8-5. In this contest Central New Yorkers got an opportunity to see the great "Hall of Famer" Frankie Frisch.  Frisch came to the Cardinals in a trade with the New York Giants for Rogers Hornsby. Another Cardinal worth mentioning is right fielder Billy Southworth. Southworth is the uncle of longtime Corcoran High School baseball coach Bob Southworth.

The team best hitters were Gus Mancuso (.372). Del Gainor (.329), Zipper Peel (.328), Al Kapl (.326) Howard Williamson (.326) Frank Hurst (.323) Harry Layne (.323, Red Urbam (.316) and Decon Selph (.309) On the mound "Wild Bill' Hallahan (19-11)., Hal Haid (15-11), and Russ Miller (15-11), Harry Lane led the International League in stolen bases with 48. Finally Joe Brown was named the Stars "Most valuable Player". Brown played brilliantly all season and was a great man when it came to team-play.

During the 1927 season President Warren Giles had ask the City of Syracuse to build a much larger home stadium. Giles is quoted saying " I again putting temporary bleachers to handle the hordes of bugs that don't seem to know Syracuse still has a ball club".

Marty Nave in his article "MacArthur Stadium, The First 50 Years" described what happened next. The fans had high hopes for a 1928 league pennant until January 16th when Stars President Warren Giles completed a deal selling the Syracuse franchise to Jersey City for $50,000. The existing club in Jersey City had been moved to Montreal by the Donnelly  Brothers for $250,000. The Stars working agreement with the parent St. Louis Cardinals was then shifted to Rochester, thus forming the Rochester Red Wings (Red Wings of the Cardinals).

This left Syracuse with a very large problem...No professional baseball.

THE HISTORY OF SYRACUSE BASEBALL - CHAPTER 13 - BRANCH RICKEY & THE ST. LOUIS CARDINALS

February 15, 1921, Ernest Landraf sells half ownership in the Stars ball club to the St. Louis Cardinals for $20,000. This brought Landraf much needed capital after a dismal 1920. The agreement signed between Cardinal owner Sam Breadon and Stars management brought instant chances. Stars players Tom Madden, Charlie Niebergall, Lester Sell and George Toporcer will go to St. Louis Cardinal spring training sight at Orange, Texas. Then manager Branch Rickey would select his major league roster, then send seven player to the Stars to balance there team. Rickey offers to buy  George "Specs" Toporcer, Landreaf and Rickey agree on $5,000 cash, plus three players.

The International League was making changes also. First Akron voted to exit the league, with Montreal looking to buy that franchise for $41,000. But the deal fell through and the club is bought by Roy Mack son of Connie Mack and relocated to Newark, New Jersey.

Stars lose opening day to Newark 6-3, but have a successful year moving to fifth place at 71-96. New blood was evident Charlie Niebergal hit .287 before his promotion to St. Louis. Art Smith (.330), Lou Witterslatter (.328), Jewel Ens (.335), Jim Esmond (.293) and the legendary Frank Schulte (.309). The St. Louis Cardinal's came to the city for an exhibition on July 24, defeating the Stars 13-9, Rogers Hornsby the hitting star going four for five. One historic event happened that year. For the first time in baseball history, three successive batters hit home runs on three successive pitches in the same inning. The  Reading pitcher was Dean Banhardt the batters- Frank Schulte, Art Smith and Jewel Ens. Another managerial change as Tom Madden was replaced by Frank Shaughnessy on July 31.

Branch Rickey was dissatisfied with the agreement between the Cardinals and Stars. His position was that moral agreements were often ignored by minor league clubs and that half ownership was ineffective in getting their best players onto his major league roster. Mr. Rickey was proven correct when he wanted Jim Bottomley sent from Syracuse to St. Louis in 1922.

Ernest, still president phoned Rickey and after some hesitation told him that many other teams wanted his young first baseman. Their were so many that Landraf was thinking of holding an auction. Bottomley's services going to the highest bidder. Branch Rickey was upset with this turn of events. If Syracuse could back out on such a deal he would have to face Cardinal owner Sam Breadon about the economic validity to such a farm system. Rickey thinking was that St. Louis's half interest in the Stars would avoid such a problem from ever happening.

He boarded a airplane for Syracuse. Upon his arrival, he locked himself in with Landraf for several hours. Finally they emerged smiling for photographers. Jim Bottomley the press informed, was a St. Louis Cardinal. The reporters asked how Rickey accomplished that. "By persuasion, he answered to one, "by logic: to another and by "appealing to his sense of integrity", to a third. Years later Mr. Rickey told the real reason" by more money": Breadon was so pleased that he bought the remaining 50% of the Stars team. That was probably the payoff to Ernest Landraf for the Bottomley deal.

The Jim Bottomley story is an interesting one. Bottomley wrote the Cardinals management from his home in Nokomis, Illinois, stating he would play major league baseball if given the opportunity. Mr. Rickey signed Jim after seeing hit hit two home runs and three triples in a semi-pro game in 1919. By the time Jim arrived in Syracuse in 1922, it was evident he would soon be a great star player. Bottomley hit a blazing .348 in 119 games, only to see the Stars finish in seventh place (64-102). Jim Bottomley would later return to Syracuse and manage the 1938 Syracuse Chiefs. He would later be inducted into the Syracuse Baseball Wall of Fame.

This would be only the beginning of Jim's story. In his first full season (1923) with the Redbirds he batted .371. Thought 1931, he hit over .300 every year except 1926 when it dropped to .299. He played in four World Series with St. Louis, won the National League's M.V.P. award in 1928 and became the fifteen year major league veteran, with Cards, Cincinnati Reds and St. Louis Browns.

Bottomley rewrote the record books on September 16, 1924, he set the major league record knocking in 12 RBI in one game vs the Philadelphia Phillies. His hits were, two home runs, a double and three singles.

The four memorable evens happened during the 1922 season. Three featured Star's hurler Jean Dubec. First, his May 3 home opening 14-1 victory over Jersey City before 6,500 Syracuse cheering fans. The next may 14, as "Hall of Famer" Chief Bender (then pitching for Reading)  dueled 14 innings against Dubec. The game was a no-hitter by Dubec until the top of the ninth. It was won by Jean Dubec himself with a dynamic home run in the bottom of the 14th frame. Years later almost very Syracusan from six to sixty claimed to have been there.

The third, was the appearance of the New York Yankees on August 10 at Star Park. This time the Yankees were led by Bob Meusel who went 3-5 with a solo home run. Babe Ruth singled in five trips to the plate and ":Jumpin " Joe Dugan went 2-4 in a 3-2 New York victory.

The "Babe" and the Yankees arrived in Syracuse by train at 7 A.M. At 9 A.M. Ruth placed himself at the disposal of the Herald Newspaper, for which he has been a special writer for the past two years. He spent more than an hour visiting employees discussing the major league pennant races and funning with Buddy O'Hara the eight year old son of Herald business manager E.A. O'Hara. At 10:30 A.M. Ruth departed for Burnet Park were a juvenile game was being played between the Columbia Athletic Club and the House of Providence.

The game was halted for a moment when Ruth arrived. The 5,000 spectators rushed the auto Ruth was seated. Mounted police finally came to the big fellows rescue. At last Ruth himself paved the way to restore order by walking to the center of the diamond declaring himself umpire. He ordered all players back to their positions. For four innings during which the Columbia A.C. ran up a 6-1 lead. When Columbia came to bat the "Mighty Bambino"  stepped up to bat to the cheer of the crowd. He used the small players game bat that did not suit him, but used it anyways. Branan the crafty House of Providence pitcher struck out the Babe on three swings. Babe asked for another turn and this time hit it squarely over the right fielders head. He repeatedly his singles and doubles in a few more swings. No sooner had he put down the bat, the crowd of 5,000 surrounded him. A photo was taken by reporters, then he zigged and zagged finally to his auto. But fans armed with fountain pens, bats, gloves and note books made it impossible to start the vehicle. The Babe's auto moved slowly through the crowd and exited the park. He returned moments later when he remembered he had promised Father James Magee (pastor of St. Patricks Church), a photo together. As the car arrived back in the park this caused another demonstration. A photo was taken of Ruth with Father Magee along with Buddy O'Hara and Faddy Cady. The Babe then returned to his base of operation the Hotel Onondaga.

Lastly a down note, the Boston Red Sox stopped by on September 25, the exhibition was viewed by only 375 fans, grossing a mear $248.25. On that occasion Jean Dubec besting Benn Karr 3-1

Branch Rickey had started his new farm system venture. He established  a tryout camp first at Dansville, Illinois, then through the South and Midwestern states. Other clubs were purchased and Sam Breadon's fortunes were turning. He quickly paid off the former Cardinal owners and a few years later was making a large profit. The result was that in 1926, St. Louis won the pennant. Then went on to defeat the New York Yankee's behind former Syracuse Star pitching great Grover Cleveland Alexander. You might remember Games 6, as Alex was called in form the bullpen and struck out Tony Lazzari with the bases full to end the Yankees rally.

The St. Louis Cardinals with Philip Bartelme as president started their first full year of Stars ownership in 1923. New upgraded talent was tried as Syracuse fans saw the likes of Lester Bell, "Whitey" Gialasen, "Wattie" Holm, George Makin, John McCarthy, "Red" McKee, Charlie Niebergall and Jim Taggert. The mound staff consisted of Fred Frankhouse (6-11), Art Reinhart (19-9) "Luigi" Pierotti (17-12), Slicker Parks (9-10) and Jean Dubec (5-2). But the best they could do is a sixth place finish (73-92) under manager Frank Shaughnessy.

One memorable moment worth mentioning with the season's second contest at Baltimore. That day future Hall of Famer Robert Moses "Lefty" Groves struck out 17 Syracuse Stars in a 8-1 win. Manager Frank Shaughnessy's game plan was "We'll wait Lefty out today, he was know to a a little wild". What happened was Groves (there was an s at the end in those days)struck out the first three batters he faced, then took fourteen more down as the game continued to set a new International League record.


August 18, 1923, Babe Ruth and his manager Christy Walsh departed their train at 6:20 AM in Syracuse, before continuing to Rochester. They arrived at the Herald Newspaper meeting with reporters and stopping for breakfast. Christy Walsh arranged to have 20 cases of Babe Ruth candy bars sent to the newspaper as samples. Babe did a bit of typing and helped with the daily newspaper and became "Editor of the Day". Ruth writes baseball articles daily promoting his All-American team nominations. The Herald was one of the most active papers using the Babe's news stories, and promoting his contests. His contests have sent as many as eight winners to the World Series.

At 9 AM he stepped out on the little balcony of the Herald Building. The Babe started tossing Babe Ruth candy bars to the crowd below as the passed by. Soon all traffic was blocked in downtown Syracuse. He then made an appearance at the Municipal Day Celebration at Clinton Square as a guest of the Herald Newspaper and the Kiwanis Club. Ruth and his syndicated manager Christy Walsh were tops in their cooperation to all. There was no half-way about either gentleman. The total visit lasted six and a half hours, a short but memorable moment in Syracuse Baseball History.

Once again International League baseball returned to Archbold Stadium for the home opener in 1924. After a dismal 2-8 road start, the Star's sent Art Reinhart to stop the slide against Newark opening day. May 4. Reinhart's victory. rejuvenated the throng of loyal Salt City baseball fans. The year in review, 79 victories against 83 defeats led to another sixth place finish. The Stars of 1924 were a good defensive club, but finished next to last in team batting at .274.




Note- Chapter in process

THE HISTORY OF SYRACUSE BASEBALL - CHAPTER 12 - BUILDING "NEW INTERNATIONAL LEAGUE PARK " (STAR PARK) - 1920

November 18, 1919, Syracuse newspaper's report that Ernest C. Landraf owner of the Newark franchise in the International League would be willing to relocate in Syracuse if a new stadium could be built in time for it to open the 1920 season". Mr. Landraf is quoted as saying "I do not want one cent of Syracuse money"." I have ownership of the Newark franchise and have offers from Montreal, Providence and Scranton to take my club". But permission to move the team to Syracuse from Newark where it barely made expenses last season will be offered at the annual meeting of International League leaders on December 9.

Montreal  offered $30,000 for the club. Mr. Landraf states " He will finance the team himself". "But if people of Syracuse want to buy an interest in the club they May". I understand that Joe Dunfee intends to build a new park in Syracuse and I want to size up the situation". The property that Mr. Dunfee acquired is located on West Genesee Street between Hiawwatha Blvd and the New York Central Railroad tracks. The land contains five acres and has frontage on West Genesee for an entrance and sufficient area for several store fronts. The land extends to harbor brook and Lakeside Avenue (now State Fair Blvd). The total cost will be $71,000.

November 30, Joe Dunfee accepts the offer, and the franchise is ready to be shifted. Ernest Landraf learns a substantial sum of money as evidence of his good faith. He also agrees to a three year lease on the new park. With International League president David L. Fultz present Mr. Dunfee promises that he will start the stadium in the next three weeks. Mr. Landraf replies " All I ask is that the field and stands be ready by the opening day of the season".

 December 9, the International League ok's the franchise shift to Syracuse. Tony Cummings is named team manager for 1920. The Syracuse newspaper conducts a sport pole to vote on a team name. The majority of Syracuse fans wants "Stars" name to return again."

The spring training sight selected was Tarboro, North Carolina. March 25, 1920, Landraf signs his first Star players, the former N.L. 'Home Run King" Frank "Wildfire" Schulte, Schulte played with the Stars back in 1904. Meanwhile Joe Dunfee launches a company called the "Syracuse Athletic Park Inc." for team boosters that will be needed for success. A bond issues is placed and 750 loyal fans are needed to purchase a 6% gold coupon bond for $100 for a total of $75,000. These bonds are backed by the City of Syracuse.

The International League went through some changes itself. Syracuse and Akron, Ohio had taken the place of Binghamton and Newark. This was the first time the I.L. had extended as far west as Ohio.

As opening day drew closer it was evident that the "New International League Park"  would not be completed in time. Landraf was now faced  with a trolley strike and a possible shift to Archbold Stadium where he would have to play there first fifteen games.This was to far from the center of the city for fans to walk or get to easily. A switch to Archbold Stadium was made and 6,000 fans responded in a 3-2 opening day victory over Rochester. Syracuse Mayor Farmer tossed out the first pitch in a game that was marked with pomp and ceremony.

Fund raising was disappointing to all and store fronts on West Genesee Street were scratched to save dollars. A minimum of $25,000 was still needed to complete the park. A committee was set up to revive Mr. Dunfee's plan's. A call for bond buyers brought new blood as John Gary bought 10 bonds himself and several blocks of 5,3,2 and 1 were sold at a rally. What was left was a shell of the parks' original design.

 The land was first owned by the Syracuse Salt Company. Then it was used as a dump by Onondaga Pottery. The grandstand was built of lumber from the old salt sheds which dotted the area. Their was hard salt on all the lumber, you walked and sat on salt. There were no seats with a small wing of grandstand extending out from the third base side.

When Dunfee and builder E.C. Stearns layed out the diamond they found that the third base foul line ran right through a corner of the bleachers, some six to eight feet. It was suggested that they move the left field foul line in to avoid the bleachers, that they did and nobody noticed it. There was a high embankment that led to the New York Central Railroad down the left field where the bleachers were built and behind the left field wall was a small creek. About 10 feet outside of the right field foul line there was a 10-foot embankment where they cut into the Pottery dump. They called this area "Schulte's Cliff" after Frank "Wildfire" Schulte who so often dug his spikes coring up with an old tea cup which he'd toss over the fence. The one classic sign that dotted the outfield wall for years was that of Nick Peters Clothes. The sign had a flag on each end, if a player hit a home run between the flags Nick Peter's gave the player a suit of clothes. Jewel Ens the former Stars third baseman and later Syracuse Chiefs manager claimed 13 suits during the 1921 season.

After a dismal 1-3 start manager Tony Cummings was fired. Mr. Landraf persuaded the great Napoleon "Nap" Lajoie who had become a free agent to take the position. "Lajoie had retired after hitting .340 and managing Toonto to a pennant in 1918. Mr. Lander has known Lajoie many years. He felt that if "Nap' played agains it would be with the Stars. To his dissappointment "Nap" had other plans. Amby McConnell the former Star and N.Y.S. League batting champion signed on to lead the Syracuse club on April 29. He would  be replaced by John Enzman after losinng 14 straight games.


New International League Park (Star Park) finally opened on May 20, 1920. John Enzman was replaced as manager on July 5, by Tom Madden. Madden was the fourth manager of the year. He saw the Star win only 33 of 149 games finishing in last place behind league winner Baltimore. At seasons end Landraf had lost an estimated $15,000. He also refused to pay the sum of $4,000 rent, as he reported the park was not ready for the first fifteen games.

 In other new Star Park- No. Salina Street would be destroyed by fire on May 30, 1920. The wooden grandstand was gutted from the ticket office past the bleachers as estimated loss of $5,000 Several boathouses along the Oswego Canal, south of the park were also set a fire. Star Park No. Salina Street and the building adjoining were owned by Mrs. Elleen Hanley of 1511 No. Salina Street.


January 1921, Landraf signed former Orange Athletic Club star infielder George Toporcer. Toporcer would be become the first player to ware glasses in the major leagues as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals. Frank "Wildfire" Schulte was traded to Atlanta but refused the trade and returned once again in a Stars uniform to hit .309. The Stars would hold a "Frank Schulte Day" in his honor August 20. Frank was presented a gold watch and a check at home plate by Johnny Haddock. Haddock, a Central New York resident and veteran catcher served as a major league scout for the St. Louis Cardinals and New York Yankees.

Note- Chapter in progress