San Francisco Chronicle
October 30, 1902
CHAMPIONS!
The fat lady has sung and finally after a long summer the boys have come home tonight as champions of the 1902 California League! A rousing crowd awaited the ‘Frisco Stingers as they returned by ferry across the bay, beating the lowly Oakland club right out of the water by the score of 14-3. The victory, easy as she was, came after losing the last four to the league’s whipping post Oakland, just in time to clinch the pennant over the Senators as they lost to the Loo-Loos in a nail biter 2-1. Both teams were tied as of yesterday.
Amos Rusie got the start for the Wasps and he pitched a dandy, allowing 3 runs in the third inning but was lights out after that. The long time New Yorker was aided by old Giant teammate Jack Doyle, who lashed out four safeties today in what turned out to be the pro’s last game.
“I wanted to end my career with a career-night. It’s been wonderful out here, in San Francisco. The fans are wonderful, endearing, and know their baseball. Not one of these guys out here would even think to play anywhere else. I’ve been blessed,” Doyle said as he held back emotion. What a way to go out, as a champion!
Not to be outdone by easterners, home-grown Mathew McCain and Greg Carroll led the league in hitting with .384 and .379 averages, respectively. “We were able to steal some of the games greatest stars [pitchers Phillippe and Rusie, batters Cross and Doyle] but us Friscans were able to hold our own and even shine. Champions? I already can’t wait til next year,” Carroll said after the game.
Plans are being made to celebrate the team’s triumphant victory and an official notice will be made by Friday. California also braces for the arrival of the eastern professionals and it is debated whether a team of league stars will be formed and who among the locals will be afforded a crack at them as well. Tryouts will be held this weekend at Recreation Park after the celebrations. An exciting finish to this year’s campaign has all of California abuzz with base ball.
Final California Club Standings 1902
Code:
Club Won Lost Pct G.B. Avg. ERA
San Francisco 119 81 .595 - .306 2.68
Sacramento 118 82 .590 1 .285 2.59
Los Angeles 98 102 .490 21 .277 2.67
Oakland 65 135 .325 52 .247 3.77