John Mahlon Ogden, Oxford, PA, was originally from Delaware County and was a graduate of Swarthmore College’s class of 1918.

Signed out of college by John McGraw’s New York Giants, he appeared in five games that summer before being sent to the minors. John stayed in the International League for nine seasons, eight of which were with the Baltimore Orioles.

His finest year with the Orioles was in 1921 when he won 31 and lost only eight, including 18 consecutive wins, 33 complete games and 2.01 ERA, He also picked up three Little World Series victories and three exhibition victories against major league teams that year.

The St. Louis Browns purchased his contract for the 1929 season. He did not play in 1930 and finished his major league career with the Cincinnati Reds in 1931 and 1932.

He would return to the International League in 1933 and 1934. His record of 216 wins and 94 losses made him the winningest pitcher in International League history.

In 1952 he was elected to the International League Hall of Fame. Following his playing career, John stayed in the International League as the Orioles General Manager for seven years.

In 1940 he purchased a majority ownership in the Class A Elmira team in the Eastern League. His son, John Jr., assisted him in that operation. John Ogden, Sr., sold his interest in the Elmira team soon after John Jr., his only child, was killed in action in France. John Ogden finished his career as a scout for the Boston Braves, then served as a Phillies scout for 13 years. His three biggest signings were Richie Allen, George Earnshaw, and Billie Burton. Local signings included Howie Beddell, Gene Patton, and Al Greenwood. Of all his accomplishments “his biggest thrill was watching Babe Ruth.”