AL West: White elephant in the room

Oakland A’s

Ever wonder what that white elephant logo on the left sleeve of A’s unis is all about? John McGraw, legendary manager of the New York Giants, leveled the phrase “white elephant” as an insult to the Philadelphia A’s at the turn of the previous century. The expression means a waste of money on something expensive yet utterly useless. The A’s owner and manager, Connie Mack, turned that harsh bit of negging around and appropriated the symbol for his team. It was embraced by fans en route to a sustained level of success that saw the A’s win three World Series all before the Kaiser and his royal cousins got frisky over the unfortunate ventilation of Archduke Ferdinand.

There are many ways one could level that same...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

With Brice Turang dealing with ankle tendinitis, Pratt may be an injury away from his MLB debut
Apr 10 2026 3:05am
We make a few observations on Derek Shelton's first two weeks as Twins manager. Plus, injury impact in the CHW outfield, George Valera's impending return in CLE, SP depth in DET, and Michael Massey's activation in KC.
Apr 9 2026 3:05am
With the lack of RHH platoon power in Seattle, Patrick Wisdom could provide a boost.
Apr 8 2026 3:05am
Jeremiah Jackson (pictured) has seen more playing time than anticipated to open the season, but his time in the majors could be limited with Jackson Holliday's looming return. Plus, more from around the AL East.
Apr 7 2026 3:05am
It's time for the league and fantasy managers to start respecting the Marlins as a rising threat in the NL East. Plus: 1B at NYM; SP at PHI; 2B at WAS; DH at ATL; more.
Apr 6 2026 3:18am

Tools