Big Train' Signs with the Whales
From the Baseball Hall of Fame
Shortly before 4 p.m. on December 3, 1914, Walter "Big Train" Johnson
signed a two-year contract with the Chicago Whales of the Federal
League.
The controversial signing came after seven seasons with the Washington
Senators of the American League where he established himself as one of
the greatest pitchers in the game.
What started as a bidding war between the St. Louis Cardinals of the
National League and the Washington Senators soon became Johnson's
reason for defection. St. Louis offered Johnson $20,000 for one year and
Washington countered with $48,000 for three years. Soon after, the
Cardinals withdrew their offer, as did the Senators, prompting Johnson
to look elsewhere.
Charles Weegham, owner of the Chicago Whales, stated, "After Washington
withdrew its offer, Johnson would not have signed with an American
League club under any consideration. We were advised of that fact and
immediately opened negotiations with the pitcher and I venture to say
that we signed him for less than the original offer from the St. Louis
club."
Johnson did indeed sign with Chicago for $17,500. However, a provision
inhis contract with Washington brought about the controversy. Clark
Griffith, manager of the Washington club, declared there was, "an
option on Johnson's services for the 1915 season," and he would, "sue him
(Johnson) to the end of the earth before I acknowledge his right to
sign with the Federals."
No legal action was taken against Johnson, but an arranged meeting with
Griffith changed the pitcher's mind about leaving Washington. "After a
conference with manager Griffith and legal authorities, I am convinced
the option in my last year's contract was binding, and I am going to return
to the Washington ball club and fulfill my agreement," stated Johnson.
The Whales threatened suit as well against Johnson for breaking his
contract with them, but again no action was taken and Johnson played
the 1915 season with his old team, the Washington Senators.
