Picture Contest

"The Major League Pennant Races of 1916"
Picture Contest

WINNER ANNOUNCED

The following is the answer to the contest as printed in the Brooklyn Daily Eagle of August 10, 1912. Congratulations to Butch Ceccacci of Verona, New Jersey who is our contest winner. Thanks to everyone who took the time to submit an answer.

There were men on first and third, a batter who had hit a fly ball, which the left fielder is about catch, was dashing for first, and the runners were on their toes ready to start as soon as the ball touched the fielder or the ground. The catcher had his mask off, looking toward the left fielder, obviously expecting a throw to the plate. The third baseman was taking no active part, but was ready to relay the throw or to take care of third in case of a play there. The shortstop was running back to cover second. The second baseman was keeping back of the bag, a back up, and the right fielder was coming in to back up the shortstop. The first baseman, who had no play at first except by a miracle, and the pitcher, were shown running to back up the catcher on the throw from left.

The above drawing appeared in the Brooklyn Daily Eagle on August 5, 1912.  It was part of a contest the newspaper held for free tickets to the first game at Ebbets Field.  At the time it was still hoped that the ballpark would open in 1912, but as we all know the opening was delayed until 1913. 

Below are the instructions from the original contest - we are offering the same challenge today - an autographed copy of The Major League Pennant Races of 1916 will be given to the person who submits the most accurate and complete answer.  The correct answer will identify what each player is doing plus the overall defensive strategy or strategies being employed by the team in the field. 
 
"Herewith is presented the first of the Eagle's baseball puzzle pictures.  It represents a play you have seen many times if you are a regular attendant at ball games, or even if you only go occasionally.  Study the figures, see what they are doing, make up your mind why they are doing it and what they hope to accomplish."