Sweeney was not originally available for selection when the draft began.
In October, 16,300,000 men registered and the draft began soon afterwards.
The draft began in spring 1917 but volunteers were also accepted.
Since the draft began, conscriptions have averaged about 30,000 a year, the officials said.
An early draft of this book in fact began that way.
Perhaps they will still be weighing their options when the draft begins.
When the draft began, foreign players were not selected.
They are volunteers: last of the great volunteer armies, for the draft is beginning that summer in the North.
Often, these deals aren't made until the draft begins and players suddenly appear or disappear.
Once the draft begins, several teams are expected to attempt to move up to spots 5 through 10 to secure them.