Philadelphia Phillies: The 4 players on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore
By Kevin Henry
Grover Alexander (1911-1917)
Grover Cleveland Alexander, affectionately known as “Old Pete,” left his mark on the Philadelphia Phillies and the game of baseball as a whole. Serving as the team’s ace pitcher from 1911 to 1917 and then again in 1930, Alexander’s contributions were nothing short of transformative.
During his tenure with the Phillies, Alexander was a dominant force on the mound. He led the team to its first National League pennant in 1915, a remarkable achievement that put the Phillies in their first World Series. Alexander’s legendary performance in Game 1 of the series, when he pitched a complete game shutout, remains one of the most iconic moments in Phillies history.
His pitching prowess was a crucial factor in the team’s success, and his 1915 season stands as one of the greatest pitching performances in baseball history. In 1916, he continued to excel, leading the league in wins, complete games, and shutouts.
Alexander became a beloved figure in Philadelphia sports lore, and his legacy continues to influence Phillies players to this day.
In recognition of his remarkable contributions, Grover Cleveland Alexander was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1938. His time with the Philadelphia Phillies remains a cherished chapter in the team’s history, forever linking his name with their rise to prominence on the diamond.