1916 – Energetic recruiting by Ban Johnson produces a pair of Chicago contractors to take over the Cleveland franchise from Charles W. Somers, a lavish spender at the American League’s creation but now in financial difficulties. J.C. Dunn and P.S. McCarthy pay $500,000 – $60,000 less than the asking price. E.S. Barnard will stay on as vice president and Lee Fohl, as manager.

1916 – Energetic recruiting by Ban Johnson produces a pair of Chicago contractors to take over the Cleveland franchise from Charles W. Somers, a lavish spender at the American League’s creation but now in financial difficulties. J.C. Dunn and P.S. McCarthy pay $500,000 – $60,000 less than the asking price. E.S. Barnard will stay on as vice president and Lee Fohl, as manager.

Chicago Cubs send cash bring back defectors lead by Three Finger Brown

In a sweet deal, the Chicago Cubs send cash to the sinking Chicago Whales of the Federal League and bring back defectors Three Finger Brown, Clem Clemens, Mickey Doolan, Bill Fischer, Max Flack, Claude Hendrix, Les Mann, Dykes Potter, Joe Tinker, Rollie Zeider and George McConnell.

Giants ask for waivers on Chief Meyers

Giants ask for waivers on Chief Meyers

The Giants ask for waivers on Chief Meyers, but Brooklyn and Boston both refuse the team’s request. When the Robins owner Charles Ebbets and Braves owners Percy D. Haughton disagree on the status of the veteran catcher, a coin toss determines the 35 year-old will play for Brooklyn, where he will hit .235 in limited action over the next two season.

Charles Ebbets
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Brooklyn Robins’ Frugal Proposal Rejected by National League

1916 – The National League turns down a request from Brooklyn Robins owner Charles Ebbets, who had wanted to impose a limit of 2,000 seats that clubs can sell for 25 cents. The Boston Braves have 10,000 such seats, the St. Louis Cardinals 9,000, the Philadelphia Phillies 6,500, and the Cincinnati Reds 4,000.