The 1908 National League pennant race was a fiercely contested battle among three dominant teams of the era: the Pittsburgh Pirates, the New York Giants, and the Chicago Cubs. These teams had collectively won every pennant in the first decade of the modern era, setting the stage for a season of intense competition. The race remained tight throughout the year, with all three teams consistently clustered in the standings. This nail-biting competition culminated
in one of baseball's most controversial games, an incident that ultimately decided the pennant and etched itself into the sport's history.
A Season of Close Contention
Throughout the 1908 season, no team managed to establish a significant lead. The Pittsburgh Pirates, pennant winners in 1901, 1902, and 1903, never found themselves more than 2.5 games ahead or 5 games behind. Similarly, the New York Giants, who had won pennants in 1904 and 1905, were never more than 4.5 games ahead or 6.5 games behind. The Chicago Cubs, the reigning champions from 1906 and 1907, also stayed within a narrow margin, never exceeding a 4-game lead or falling more than 6 games behind. This consistent proximity in the standings created an atmosphere of high stakes and anticipation as the season drew to a close.
By September 23, 1908, when the Giants faced the Cubs at the Polo Grounds in New York City, the two teams were tied for first place. The Giants held an 87-50 record, while the Cubs were at 90-53. The Pirates were a mere 1.5 games behind with an 88-54 record, highlighting just how close the race was. The outcome of the game between the Giants and Cubs on that day would have significant implications for the pennant, making every play, and every decision, critically important.
The Decisive "Merkle's Boner" Game
In the bottom of the ninth inning of the September 23rd game, with the score tied 1-1 and two outs, the Giants appeared to score the winning run. Rookie Fred Merkle, at 19 the youngest player in the National League, singled, and Moose McCormick advanced to third. Al Bridwell then singled, and McCormick crossed home plate. Believing the game was won, fans streamed onto the field. However, Merkle, instead of advancing to second base, headed directly to the clubhouse.
Cubs second baseman Johnny Evers, known for his knowledge of the rules, quickly appealed to umpire Hank O'Day, arguing that Merkle had not touched second base. O'Day, who had previously encountered a similar situation, ruled Merkle out on a force play. This decision nullified the winning run, leaving the game tied. Due to the crowd on the field and the fading daylight, the game was declared a tie and could not be resumed. This controversial ruling meant the game would have to be replayed if the teams finished tied at the end of the season.
The Pennant's Final Chapter
As fate would have it, the Giants and Cubs ended the regular season tied for first place. This necessitated a makeup game, which was played on October 8 at the Polo Grounds. The Cubs emerged victorious in this decisive rematch, winning 4-2. This victory allowed the Cubs to beat the Giants by a single game, securing the National League pennant for 1908. The incident, dubbed "Merkle's Boner," became known as "the most controversial game in baseball history" and forever linked Fred Merkle's name to the dramatic conclusion of the 1908 pennant race.
