The Tri-Cornered Baseball Game, held on June 26, 1944, was an extraordinary exhibition match that brought together three iconic baseball teams: the Brooklyn Dodgers, New York Giants, and New York Yankees. This event was not just a showcase of baseball talent but also served as a significant fundraiser for World War II efforts. Played at the Polo Grounds, the game was organized by the War Loans Sports Committee to sell war bonds, contributing to the U.S.
war effort during a critical time in history.
The Game's Format and Purpose
The Tri-Cornered Baseball Game was designed with a unique round-robin format, where each team batted and fielded for six innings and rested for three. This innovative setup allowed the teams to face each other equally, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for the spectators. The primary purpose of the game was to raise funds for the war effort, with tickets sold in the form of war bonds. The event successfully sold 40,000 unreserved tickets for $25 each, along with reserved and box seats available for $100 or $1,000 bonds.
The game took place shortly after the Normandy landings, a pivotal moment in World War II. The War Loans Sports Committee, led by Max Kase, played a crucial role in organizing the event. Kase, an editor for the New York Journal-American newspaper, was instrumental in conceiving the contest, which was one of several sporting events aimed at boosting bond sales.
The Teams and Their Players
All three teams participating in the Tri-Cornered Baseball Game had winning records entering the exhibition. The Dodgers, Giants, and Yankees were fielding short-handed rosters due to many regular players participating in the war. Notable absences included Joe DiMaggio from the Yankees and Johnny Mize from the Giants. Despite these challenges, the game featured Hall of Fame members such as Ernie Lombardi, Joe Medwick, and Paul Waner.
The managers for the teams were Leo Durocher for the Dodgers, Joe McCarthy for the Yankees, and Mel Ott for the Giants. Ott also made an appearance as an outfielder during the game. The Dodgers emerged victorious, scoring five runs, while the Yankees managed one run, and the Giants were held scoreless.
Impact and Legacy
The Tri-Cornered Baseball Game was attended by over 50,000 fans, raising approximately $4.5 million from ticket sales. Additional contributions included $50 million pledged by New York City Mayor Fiorello La Guardia and $1 million from Bond Clothing Stores. Overall, the event raised more than $56 million for the war effort, showcasing the power of sports in uniting people for a common cause. The game remains a memorable example of how baseball contributed to the national effort during World War II.
