The Philadelphia Athletics have created some separation between themselves and the pack in the American League pennant race. The Athletics (53-33) were 20-7 in July and now hold a seven game lead over second-place Milwaukee (44-38) with three other teams (Boston, Chicago and Washington) all sitting tied for third-best at 44-40. "Slim Jim" Larson, who had been unable to break into the regular lineup in three seasons with Pittsburgh in the National League, has been the key producer in the Athletics' lineup. Larson currently leads all hitters in both leagues with a .374 average.
In the National League, Boston continues to set the pace with a stellar 62-27 mark thru the end of July. The Beaneaters seem to be cruising to a third-consecutive pennant behind Heinie Staudenmaier (.367 average, tops in the NL) and Mike O'Halloran (68 runs driven in). The Beaneaters only competition comes from the Pittsburgh nine. The Pirates are a mere four games back and with Fritz Behrens (.358 average) and the surprising Carl Martin (1.70 ERA), Pittsburgh may have the talent to catch the streaking Bostons.
Michael O'Halloran, Boston (NL)