Antedating of relief pitcher(1902)

[Fred Shapiro]

On Sun, 4 Jan 2004, Sam Clements wrote:

> Dickson has 1914.  Barry found 1906.
>
> Decatur Semi-Weekly Herald, July 18, 1902.  Page 3, column 2:
>     <<With "Smiling Pete" to back up Dorner and McGill and "Lucky Bill" as a
> relief pitcher the club will at least be in beter shape to face the strong

Here's earlier, from Paperofrecord.com:

1886 _Sporting News_ 18 Oct. 5  Alexander, the relief pitcher and right
fielder for the Acids, is laid up with chills and fever.

Fred Shapiro


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