The 1907 Philadelphia Athletics almost won the American League pennant, backed by three Hall-of-Fame starting pitchers. However, the pitcher who almost got them into the World Series was a little spitballer named Jimmy Dygert, whose major-league career lasted just six seasons. Arm problems ended his professional career before he was 30. Dygert played for the … Continue reading Grave Story: Jimmy Dygert (1884-1936)
If you go to Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis, you will find that there is indeed a lake… and woods. The lake, apart from being a peaceful place to sit, has also been a place where cremains are scattered. That’s what I’m assuming at least, because if you search on Lakewood’s website for the final resting … Continue reading Grave Story: Yip Owens (1886-1958)
Here lies Wib Smith, who had a brief career as a catcher in the major leagues before enjoying a successful career in the minor leagues in Minnesota. Smith played 17 games for the St. Louis Browns in 1909. Wilbur Smith was born on August 30, 1886, in Evart, Mich. According to census data, his parents … Continue reading Grave Story: Wib Smith (1886-1959)
Here lies Harry Pulliam, who rose from a journalist to become the president of the National League from 1903-09. Sadly, the stress of the job and the conflict between his idealistic baseball beliefs and the realities of the game, led Pulliam to take his life. (Editor’s note: This story covers a suicide and some rather … Continue reading Grave Story: Harry Pulliam (1869-1909)
LOST--ONE BASEBALL PLAYER: PITCHER by inclination; apparently sound in wind and limb, and answers to the name of "Rube." Address all communications to Connie Mack, manager Philadelphia American League ball club, present keeper.The Inter Ocean (Chicago, Ill.), August 10, 1902. Here lies Rube Waddell, one of the most dominating pitchers in the game — when … Continue reading Grave Story: Rube Waddell (1876-1914)
RIP Baseball 