Hello baseball fans! Today, we’re turning back the clock to the 1940 Cincinnati Reds. This team was a force to be reckoned with, compiling an impressive record and making a deep run in the World Series. Join us as we delve into the story of this legendary team, exploring their triumphs and tribulations.
The 1940 season was a special one for the Reds. With a roster boasting future Hall of Famers like Bucky Walters, Frank McCormick, and Paul Derringer, they dominated the National League, finishing with a record of 100-56. Their pitching staff was particularly impressive, leading the league in ERA and strikeouts.
In the World Series, the Reds faced off against the Detroit Tigers, led by the legendary Hank Greenberg. The series went the distance, with each team winning three games. Ultimately, the Tigers prevailed in a thrilling Game 7, but the Reds left an indelible mark on baseball history with their remarkable performance.
Cincinnati Reds 1940 Season
Arriving in the World Series
The 1940 Cincinnati Reds shocked the baseball world by not only making a strong run at the National League pennant but ultimately winning it and advancing to the World Series. The team’s success was built on a combination of strong pitching, timely hitting, and solid defense.
The Reds’ pitching staff was led by Paul Derringer, a 34-year-old veteran who won 20 games that season. Derringer was complemented by Bucky Walters, a 31-year-old right-hander who had won 27 games for the Philadelphia Phillies in 1939. The Reds also had a solid bullpen, led by closer Jim Turner.
The Reds’ offense was led by first baseman Frank McCormick, who hit .322 with 13 home runs and 105 RBIs. McCormick was supported by a strong supporting cast that included outfielders Ival Goodman and Debs Garms, and second baseman Billy Myers.
The Reds’ defense was solid, led by shortstop Eddie Miller and catcher Ernie Lombardi. Miller was a slick-fielding shortstop who led the league in assists and double plays. Lombardi was a strong all-around defensive catcher who also hit .302 with 11 home runs and 75 RBIs.
The Reds clinched the National League pennant on the last day of the season, edging out the St. Louis Cardinals by one game. The Reds then faced the Detroit Tigers in the World Series.
Reds Shut Out Tigers to Win Pennant
The final day of the 1940 season was a tense one in Cincinnati. The Reds needed to beat the Pittsburgh Pirates to clinch the National League pennant, while the St. Louis Cardinals needed to beat the Chicago Cubs to tie the Reds for the pennant and force a one-game playoff.
The Reds did their part, shutting out the Pirates 5-0 behind a strong pitching performance from Paul Derringer. Derringer pitched a complete game, allowing just four hits and two walks while striking out eight batters.
The Cardinals also won their game, beating the Cubs 4-3. However, the Reds’ victory gave them the National League pennant by one game.
Reds Fall in World Series to Tigers
The Reds faced the Detroit Tigers in the World Series, and the two teams traded wins back and forth through the first six games of the series. The Tigers won the first game 7-2, but the Reds won the second game 5-3. The Tigers won the third game 7-4, but the Reds won the fourth game 5-2. The Tigers won the fifth game 8-4, but the Reds won the sixth game 4-0.
The seventh game of the World Series was a pitchers’ duel between Derringer and Tigers’ starter Bobo Newsom. The game was scoreless through the first eight innings, but the Tigers finally broke through in the ninth inning. Hank Greenberg hit a two-out, two-run home run off Derringer to give the Tigers a 2-0 lead.
The Reds were unable to score in the bottom of the ninth inning, and the Tigers won the World Series in seven games.
Despite the loss, the Reds’ performance in the World Series was a testament to the team’s fighting spirit and determination. The Reds were a young team with a lot of potential, and they would go on to win the National League pennant again in 1943.
Reds Stars in the 1940s
The 1940s were a golden era for the Cincinnati Reds, and the team boasted several standout players who played a pivotal role in their success. Among them were three exceptional pitchers: Bucky Walters, Paul Derringer, and Ival Goodman.
Bucky Walters: Hall of Fame Pitcher
Bucky Walters was undoubtedly the most celebrated pitcher of the 1940 Cincinnati Reds. His presence in the starting rotation was a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination. Walters’ prowess on the mound was evident from the onset of his career, as he swiftly established himself as one of the league’s most formidable hurlers. His pinpoint control and deceptive change-up bewildered batters, making him a formidable adversary on any given day.
In 1940, Walters solidified his status as an elite pitcher, leading the National League in wins with a remarkable 22 victories. His dominance continued throughout the decade, as he emerged as a consistent workhorse for the Reds. Walters’ unwavering dedication and exceptional skills earned him a well-deserved induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1967, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest pitchers of his generation.
Paul Derringer: Two-Time All-Star
Paul Derringer was another pitching stalwart for the 1940 Cincinnati Reds, showcasing exceptional talent and resilience throughout his illustrious career. His remarkable ability to control the strike zone and induce ground balls made him a formidable presence on the mound. Derringer’s unwavering determination and competitive spirit were evident in his performance during the 1940 season, as he emerged as the team’s leader in wins with an impressive 17 victories.
Derringer’s contributions extended beyond his pitching prowess; he was also an exceptional hitter, batting .287 with 7 home runs in 1940. His versatility and all-around talent earned him well-deserved recognition as a two-time All-Star during his tenure with the Reds. Derringer’s exceptional abilities and dedication solidified his place as one of the most valuable players on the 1940 Cincinnati Reds.
Ival Goodman: Three-Time All-Star
Ival Goodman was a lightning-fast pitcher who made a significant impact on the 1940 Cincinnati Reds. His speed and agility on the mound were unmatched, and he consistently bewildered batters with his blazing fastballs and deceptive change-ups. Goodman’s remarkable skills earned him the nickname “Bullet” and established him as one of the most electrifying pitchers of his era.
In 1940, Goodman showcased his exceptional talent, winning 19 games and leading the National League in strikeouts with an astonishing 172. His dominance on the mound continued throughout the decade, as he earned three consecutive All-Star selections from 1943 to 1945. Goodman’s contributions to the Reds’ success cannot be overstated, as his speed and guile made him a formidable opponent for any team.
The Big Red Machine
Wartime Roster
The onset of World War II had a profound impact on Major League Baseball, including the Cincinnati Reds. With the nation’s focus shifting to the war effort, many young men who would have otherwise filled the ranks of professional baseball players were called to serve in the armed forces. This resulted in a significant reduction in the number of players available to all MLB teams, including the Reds.
In Cincinnati, the player shortage was particularly acute. By 1943, the Reds had lost a total of 21 players to the military, including several key members of their starting lineup. Among those who left for the war were outfielder Hank Sauer, first baseman Frank McCormick, and pitcher Bucky Walters, all of whom were among the team’s best players.
To compensate for the wartime player shortage, the Reds turned to a combination of older players, minor leaguers, and castoffs from other teams. They also relied heavily on a group of talented young players who had yet to reach their full potential, including outfielder Pete Reiser and pitcher Ewell Blackwell.
Still a Winning Team
Despite the player losses, the Reds managed to remain a competitive team during the war years. In 1940, they finished with a record of 79-65, good for third place in the National League. In 1941, they improved to 82-69, finishing just one game behind the pennant-winning Brooklyn Dodgers.
The Reds’ success during the war years was due in large part to the contributions of their young players. Reiser emerged as one of the most exciting players in the league, leading the NL in stolen bases in both 1941 and 1942. Blackwell developed into a reliable starting pitcher, winning 16 games in 1941 and 1943.
The Reds also benefited from the leadership of manager Bill McKechnie, who guided the team to four consecutive winning seasons during the war years. McKechnie was known for his ability to get the most out of his players and for his innovative use of strategy. He was also a master at motivating his team, even in the face of adversity.
Fans Stayed Loyal
Even as they saw their team depleted by the war, Cincinnati fans remained loyal to the Redlegs. Attendance at Crosley Field remained strong, and the team continued to generate significant revenue. This support helped the Reds to weather the difficult war years and to emerge as a contender once the war was over.
The Cincinnati Reds’ experience during World War II is a testament to the resilience of Major League Baseball and the enduring support of its fans. Despite the challenges posed by the war, the Reds managed to remain a competitive team and to keep their fans engaged. This is a reminder that even in the most difficult of times, sports can provide a sense of hope and community.
Cincinnati Reds Legacy
Success in the 1940s
The 1940s were a glorious era for the Cincinnati Reds, marked by an unprecedented level of success. The team made four World Series appearances during this decade, etching their name into baseball history. The first of these appearances came in 1940, where they faced off against the Detroit Tigers. Despite a valiant effort, the Reds fell short in four games. Undeterred, they returned to the Fall Classic in 1943, this time against the New York Yankees. In a thrilling seven-game series, the Reds ultimately emerged victorious, capturing their first World Series title since 1919. The following year, they made a third consecutive appearance in the World Series, once again facing the Cardinals. However, St. Louis proved too strong, vanquishing the Reds in four games. In 1946, the Reds made their fourth and final World Series appearance of the decade, taking on the Boston Red Sox. After a hard-fought seven-game series, the Red Sox prevailed, denying the Reds their second championship of the decade.
Influence on Future Teams
Numerous players from the legendary 1940s Reds squad went on to have a profound impact on the game of baseball, both on and off the field. One such player was Bucky Walters, a talented right-handed pitcher who played for the Reds from 1939 to 1948. After retiring from playing, Walters became a successful manager, leading the Baltimore Orioles to the American League pennant in 1969. Another influential figure from that era was Bill McKechnie, who served as manager of the Reds from 1938 to 1946 and again from 1953 to 1958. Known for his keen eye for talent and his innovative approach to the game, McKechnie managed several other teams throughout his career, including the St. Louis Browns, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Brooklyn Dodgers. His contributions to baseball earned him an induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962.
Aside from their on-field achievements, the 1940s Reds also played a significant role in breaking down racial barriers in baseball. In 1947, they signed Hank Aaron, who would go on to become one of the greatest players in baseball history. Aaron’s signing with the Reds marked a major step forward in the integration of the sport, and his subsequent success helped to inspire and motivate other African American players to pursue their dreams of playing at the highest level.
Furthermore, the 1940s Reds left a lasting legacy through their impact on the development of the game’s strategy and tactics. Manager Bill McKechnie was a pioneer in the use of advanced statistical analysis, which he employed to create innovative defensive alignments and pitching strategies. These concepts laid the foundation for modern-day sabermetrics and continue to be used by teams today. The Reds’ success in the 1940s also helped to popularize the concept of specialization, with players focusing on developing specific skills rather than being expected to play multiple positions.
Integral Part of Baseball History
The 1940 Cincinnati Reds stand as an unforgettable chapter in the annals of baseball. Their remarkable success on the field, coupled with their influence on the game’s development and the breaking of racial barriers, has cemented their place as one of the most iconic teams in baseball history. The memories of their World Series triumphs, their innovative strategies, and their enduring impact on the game continue to inspire and captivate fans of all generations.
Historic Crosley Field
Crosley Field, the iconic home of the Cincinnati Reds for nearly six decades, stood proudly in the heart of the Queen City from 1912 to 1970. With its distinctive architecture and intimate dimensions, Crosley Field became a beloved landmark and a formidable advantage for the Reds.
A Unique and Iconic Ballpark
Crosley Field’s singular design set it apart from other ballparks. The grandstand’s cantilevered overhang provided shade for spectators while creating an echo chamber that amplified the roar of the crowd. The outfield dimensions were famously disproportional, with a deep right-center field and a relatively shallow left field. This design gave the Reds an unfair advantage, making it difficult for opposing batters to hit home runs to certain parts of the field.
Crosley’s Legendary Dimensions
The unique dimensions of Crosley Field played a pivotal role in the Reds’ success. The deep right-center field, known as “The Gap,” was an impenetrable barrier for many right-handed batters. The shallow left field, on the other hand, allowed left-handed batters to hit frequent home runs.
Crosley’s Influence on the Reds’ Home Record
Crosley Field’s dimensions gave the Reds a significant home-field advantage. From 1912 to 1970, the Reds posted a winning record at Crosley Field of 2,734-2,393, a winning percentage of .533. This home-field advantage was a major factor in the Reds’ five World Series appearances during their tenure at Crosley Field.
Crosley’s Demise
Despite its popularity and historical significance, Crosley Field was demolished in 1972 to make way for the construction of Riverfront Stadium. The decision to demolish Crosley Field was met with outrage by many fans and preservationists, who argued that the ballpark was an invaluable piece of Cincinnati’s heritage.
Crosley’s Legacy
Although Crosley Field is long gone, its legacy lives on in the memories of Reds fans and baseball historians. The ballpark’s unique dimensions and distinctive architecture continue to be celebrated as a testament to the golden age of baseball. Crosley Field remains a symbol of the Reds’ storied past and a reminder of the importance of preserving our architectural heritage.