1914 Baseball History: Pitcher Hank Ritter in Action

This historical photograph features William H. Hank Ritter, a professional baseball pitcher, captured around 1914. Ritter played during a transformative era for baseball, reflecting the sport’s evolution from the 19th century as it began to gain popularity and professional structure. In the early 1900s, Major League Baseball was solidifying its place in American culture, and many players, including Ritter, contributed to the trying and exciting landscape of the game.

Ritter had a brief career in Major League Baseball, appearing primarily with the Philadelphia Athletics. His pitching style and demeanor on the mound were characteristic of the era, which was marked by different practices and dynamics compared to todays game. This photograph serves as a tangible connection to the past, showcasing not only a player but also the changing fashions and equipment of the time, including the cotton uniforms that were standard before the advent of synthetic materials. The image, taken by the Bain News Service, stands as an important document of baseball history, encapsulating the spirit and social dynamics of early 20th-century sports in America.