Ted Fritsch’s time in Nashville did not last long.
The next month, the outfielder was traded to a team that had been itching to get Fritsch on their roster.
“Outfielder Ted Fritsch, Green Bay Packers’ fullback for the past two seasons, has been sent to Portsmouth in the Piedmont League on option,” The Tennessean announced.
“[Nashville Manager Larry Gilbert] announced Fritsch found it difficult to hit a certain type of Southern League ball.”
Later that month, Fritsch was headed back to Madison.
“Fritsch… wired Duane Bowman, sponsor of the team and president of the Industrial League commission, that he was returning to Madison and was ready to perform with the Dairy team again,” the June 23, 1944, Wisconsin State Journal said.
Fritsch returned just in time to represent the Madison Industrial League in the All Star Game in early July.
One month later, the front page of the Green Bay Press-Gazette sports section announced that Fritsch and fellow veteran backfielder, Lou Brock, would be returning for the 1944 season.
“Ted is blessed with an educated toe. During his first year with [the Packers] he booted four field goals and added one point after. Last season, he racked up a quartet of touchdowns which gave him a total of 37 points for two years of service,” the publication stated.
“In 1943, Fritsch carried the ball 54 times. His plunging tactics produced 169 yards with a 14-yard thrust as the biggest gain.”
Fritsch reported for practice for the 1944 season on Aug. 21.
But the effects of the war were still hitting the team pretty hard, and the need for new players continued.
“From the group of newcomers, Coach (Curly) Lambeau will have to find four to take the place of veterans now serving in the armed forces, Backs Tony Canadeo and Andy Uram, Tackle Chet Adams and End Dick Evans,” the Press-Gazette stated.
“The fifth veteran, conspicuous by his absence, Sunday was Guard (Charles) ‘Buckets’ Goldenberg, who may yet change his often-announced decision that he is finished playing. His 11 years of experience would come in handy on the line.”
To be continued
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