I once did some research on Charlie Bennett and used old newspapers from the end of the 19th century. There were so many funny phrases I ended up writing them down. Here's my list:
salary flipper = pitching arm
the Jungaleers = the Tigers
the garden = the outfield or
the outer garden vs. the inner garden (outfield vs. infield)
the second defense = the outfield
moundsmen
bush leagues
rooters = fans
the battery line = pitcher and catcher
battery work
the circuit = the league
dented the home plate = scored
sacks = bases
round = inning
home guard = home team
society of swat
stick = bat
two-ply killings = double play
no reverses = no defeats
two big tent aggregations = two teams
flail and horsehide = bat and ball
middle cushion = second base
safety = base hit
two cleans = two hits
the pill = the ball
twirler = pitcher
the great peanut race = pennant race
As the seasonal pleasantries draw to a close....
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