The Seattle post-intelligencer. [volume] (Seattle, Wash. Terr. [Wash.]) 1888-1914, 1892-06-12

the last moment. That it will be popu-
lar step goes without saying, as Billy has
seen service on the Coast before, and was
one of the greatest fayorites that ever
played in the Pacific Northwest. As soon
as the announcement of Earle's release
from Pittsburg was made known there
was general scramble for his services, and
it was only by prompt action and ''hust-
ling" that the Seattle club succeeded in
landing him. Spokane was dickering
with him, and the statement was sent out
through press dispatches that he had
signed there, but Seattle had carried off
the prize before Spokane could make its
offer.
Earle is one of the best known players
in the country, having played in all parts
of the Union from ocean to ocean. He is
a Philadelphia boy who made his profes-
sional debut in the Southern League in
1886 From there he drifted west, and
blossomed out as star in
1883, while catching Cyclone" Duryea
at st. Paul. During the winter of 1SSs-'S9
he helped make up the famous Spalding
party which made the tour of the globe.
He caught most of the games on the trip
for Johnny Wards All-Americas and
probably won more favorable notices for
his fine work than any other player who
took the trip. In 1889 he caught for the
Cincinnati club. The next year he
started in with the st. Louis
Browns. but owing to personal trouble
with Chris Won Der Abe left there and
came to Tacoma. His splendid work
there helped pull the team into second
place in the permanent race Last season he
caught for the Sioux City club, which won
the championship in the Western Associa-
ton, and was behind the bat in
no less than lis games. This year
he started in with the Pittsburg club. but
was released in order to cut down the
salary list. He was catching finely, but
Of course had no show to stay on the team
when there were two veteran stars CATCH
ing regularly, with another In reserve in
the outtield. The Pittsburg Commercial
Gazette. In commenting on Earles release,
says:
The only reason assigned for releasing the
crack little catcher was that the club was carry
ing too many men. Earle should not be long
without an engagement He is fine catcher, 3
slashing little hitter, and by odds the best base
runner in the Pittsburg team, while he is
strictly temperate and reliable. Clubs that can
release such players as Earle must be long on
than sign this experienced player.
IN addition to being brilliant catcher
and fine thrower Earle is dangerous bat
ter and a fast base runner. Much of his
value, however, lies in the ginger that he
puts into his work. He never quits play
ing and is tower of strength
to any club. The signing OF the new
catcher does not mean that Joe Lohbeck
is to be released. The German lad has
been catching wonderful game of late,
is hitting well and is too good player for
any team to let go.
Earle left Cincinnati for the Coast on
last Tuesday night, and should reach the
city this morning. He will go behind the
bat this afternoon, if he arrives IN time,
to catch Tom Parrot. who will try and
repeat his wonderful pitching of Friday.
Willie LANCE and Danny Minnehan
are still on the disabled list, and
still unable to play. Tully will probably
be assigned TO duty at second base for the
day. The game is the last one before the
team leaves on its trip, and ought to draw
an immense crowd.
1t will be Spokane's last game here in
the first season, and the team will make a
desperate effort to WIN. Johnny Sowders,
the clever little southpaw, will endeavor
to puzzle the Seattle batters. Play will be
called at o'clock The makeup will be ::