Sun Sep 15 12:02:00 UTC 2024: ## Washington Senators History: From Knuckleballs to Clown Routines

**Washington, D.C.** – The Washington Senators have a rich history filled with both on-field victories and memorable personalities. This week, we take a look back at some of the most notable events in the franchise’s past.

**1911:** Jimmy McAleer, the Senators’ manager, becomes the first in the team’s history to resign instead of being fired. He will join the Red Sox as a part owner after the season.

**1917:** The Senators dominate the Athletics in a doubleheader, winning 5-0 and 4-0 thanks to strong pitching performances from Harry Harper and Walter Johnson.

**1940:** The Senators, despite their 7th place standing, pull off a stunning upset, defeating the first-place Detroit Tigers 6-1 behind the knuckleball pitching of Dutch Leonard.

**1945:** The Senators, trailing the Tigers by a half game in the standings, miss a crucial opportunity to take the lead in a two-game series. The Tigers win both games, extending their lead to 2.5 games.

**1969:** The Senators mount a comeback against the Orioles, rallying from a 2-0 deficit in the 8th inning to win 3-2. Ed Brinkman’s 9th-inning single brings home the winning run.

**A Legend of the Diamond:**

The history of the Senators is also marked by the presence of Nicholas Altrock, a player and coach who entertained fans with his comedic antics. Altrock, known for his clown routines with teammates Gemany Schaefer and Al Schacht, brought laughter to Washington despite the team’s struggles on the field.

Prior to joining the Senators in 1909, Altrock was a successful pitcher, winning 19, 23, and 20 games for the White Sox between 1904 and 1906. He even contributed to the White Sox’s 1906 World Series victory, pitching in two games.

Altrock, a master of his craft, held several pitching fielding records and even became the oldest player to appear in a major league game in 1933 at the age of 57, making him the first player to compete in five different decades. He remained a fixture in the Washington baseball scene as a coach until 1959.

**These are just a few highlights from the long and illustrious history of the Washington Senators. The team’s legacy is filled with unforgettable moments, both on and off the field, that continue to inspire and entertain baseball fans today.**

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