Full Description
While most serious fans know that the Deadball Era was characterized by low scoring, aggressive baserunning, and strong pitching, few understand the extent to which ballparks determined the style of play. As it turns out, the general absence of standardization and the ever-changing dimensions, configurations, and ground rules had a profound effect on the game, as offensive production would rise and fall, sometimes dramatically, from year to year. Especially in the early years of the American League, home teams enjoyed an unprecedented advantage over visiting clubs. The 1901 Orioles are a case in point, as the club batted an astounding .325 at Oriole Park IV--some 60 points above their road average and 54 points better than visitors to the park.
Organized by major league city, this comprehensive study of Deadball parks and park effects provides fact-filled, data-heavy commentary on all 34 ballparks used by the American and National Leagues from 1901 through 1919. Illustrations and historical photos are included, along with a foreword by Philip J. Lowry and a final chapter that offers an assessment of the overall impact of parks on the era.
Contents
Table of Contents
Foreword by Philip J. Lowry
Preface
Introduction: Baseball in the Deadball Era
Abbreviations
1. BALTIMORE
Oriole Park IV
2. BOSTON
South End Grounds III
Huntington Avenue Baseball Grounds
Fenway Park
Braves Field
3. BROOKLYN
Washington Park III
Ebbets Field
4. CHICAGO
West Side Grounds
South Side Park III
Comiskey Park I
Weeghman Park /Cubs Park
5. CINCINNATI
League Park II
Palace of the Fans
Redland Field
6. CLEVELAND
League Park III
League Park IV
7. DETROIT
Bennett Park
Burns Park
Navin Field
8. MILWAUKEE
Lloyd Street Grounds
9. NEW YORK
Polo Grounds IV
Hilltop Park
Polo Grounds V
10. PHILADELPHIA
Baker Bowl
Columbia Park II
Shibe Park
11. PITTSBURGH
Exposition Park III
Forbes Field
12. ST. LOUIS
Robison Field
Sportsman's Park III
Sportsman's Park IV
13. WASHINGTON
American League Park I
American League Park II
Griffith Stadium
14. SUMMARY
The Impact of Ballparks on Batting in the Deadball Era
Chapter Notes
Bibliography
Index
