Deadball Mayhem

- Scoundrels, Scandalous Behavior, and Tragic Events -  Mayhem and tragedy prevailed throughout baseball’s Deadball Era. Throughout the 1890s and Deadball Era, noteworthy events occurred, cementing that period’s place in the annals of baseball history. As a host of supreme ballplayers aided baseball’s growth, scoundrels and roustabouts exuded their influence from the diamond and through outside nefarious endeavors. Sadly, tragic moments also occurred, due to the frailty of human nature. Although pitcher Win Mercer achieved success in the 1890s and early twentieth century, while endearing himself to teammates and opposing players, dark secrets lurked below the surface. Female fans adored the handsome hurler and flocked to the ballpark when he pitched on Ladies’ Days. Sadly, Win ended his life on January 12, 1903, in San Francisco. Fans from that era also witnessed the stories surrounding Chick Stahl’s and National League president Harry Pulliam’s tragic suicides, Ed Delahanty’s unfortun