The Baltimore Terrapins were one of the least successful teams in the short-lived Federal League of professional baseball. It primarily owes its existence to Baltimore politician Carroll Wilson Rasin. They played two seasons from 1914 to 1915. While the team was inconsequential in terms of its record, it is remembered for certain unexpected consequences of its existence. When the Federal League started, the Terrapins severely cut into the minor league Baltimore Orioles' attendance, causing financial problems for the owner, Jack Dunn. As a result, several players, including the young left-handed pitcher Babe Ruth, were offered for sale to major league teams. Ruth's contract was purchased by the Boston Red Sox, after being turned down by Connie Mack of the Philadelphia Athletics. In 1914, the Babe begin his career with the Red Sox of the rival American League. After the demise of the Federal League and the Terrapins, Baltimore would not see major league baseball again until 1954, when the former St. Louis Browns moved into town and became the current-day Baltimore Orioles.
Baltimore Terrapins in "The House That George Built"[]
Despite Baltimore politician Carroll Wilson Rasin's best efforts, the planned Baltimore Terrapins never materialized, and instead, the Milwaukee Creams became the last Federal League franchise.
George Ruth believed that the failure of the Terrapins contributed to his failure to achieve major league stardom.
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