On this date (July 21, 1899), the Western League made its seasons debut in Grand Rapids, Michigan, after the franchise moved from Columbus, Ohio. Among the new Grand Rapids players were future Hall of Famers Sam Crawford and Rube Waddell. Grand Rapids Democrat They [Grand Rapids’ fans] are anxious to see every individual member of the new team, but the phenomenal young player, Crawford, picked up by Loftus from the Canadian League and “Rube” Waddell are the ones most talked about. The great work of Crawford since joining the team has shown him to be about the best that has broke into the league this year. “Rube” Waddell is acknowledged to be on of the best pitchers in the Western League this year. His weakness when with Louisville in the National League was in lack of command, but under Dick Buckley’s capable coaching and tuition he has conquered all his weakness and learned all the points that make a great pitcher. Half the batters in the league, when facing “Rube,” were “scared to death” for fear of being hit with one of his delusive speedy inshoots. “Rube” will pitch the game today and Buckley will wear the wind pad. Grand Rapids Morning News “Rube” Waddell is acknowledged to be one of the best pitchers in the Western League this year. His weakness when with Louisville in the National League was lack of command but under Dick Buckley’s capable coaching and tuition he was conquered all his weakness and learned all the points that make a great pitcher. Half the batters in the league, when facing “Rube,” were “scared to death” for fear of being hit with one of his elusive speedy inshoots.
Posted on: Mon, 21 Jul 2014 16:36:04 +0000
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