Rod Caborn submits this “stranger than fiction item” as he puts it, from his 1911 National League replay:
Giants Christy Mathewson has started out 7-0 (NY Giants are 22-6 and running away with the NL race) and just completed second of two consecutive one-hit shutouts.
On May 8, Mathewson one-hit Pittsburgh 11-0 in a one-hit blowout, giving up single by Pirates Fred Clarke in first inning. Four days later, Mathewson one-hit Cincinnati 6-0, giving up a third inning double to C Tommy Clarke.
What are the odds that a pitcher would throw two straight one-hit shutouts and both no-hit bids would be broken up by players with the last name of Clarke?
Thanks Rod! What are the odds? For the record, there have only been two players named “Clarke” since 1924. Seems to have been a more popular surname in the deadball era, unfortunately for Christy.
Hi Rod!
That’s amazing! !!….I remember, Sudden Sam McDowell chucked btb 1 hitters when I was a kid. ..Made all the papers….
But, your btb games are unique!
Best of luck.. With no hitters!