"We had an awfully good ball club that was capable of beating anybody. They were that good"

In this quote, John Oldham assesses the quality and capacity of a baseball group he was connected with. At first glimpse, the expression "awfully good" might appear inconsistent because "very" often communicates negativity, while "great" is favorable. Nevertheless, in this context, it is an idiomatic expression used to stress the remarkable level of ability and talent within the team. This highlights a nuanced understanding of language where the adverb "extremely" magnifies rather than negates the adjective.

Oldham's assertion that the group was "capable of beating anyone" speaks to their formidable abilities and confidence. He indicates that the team had encountered and overcome a variety of difficulties and opponents, demonstrating their versatility and resilience in the face of different playing styles or competitive pressures. This conveys a sense of pride in their cumulative ability to increase to any occasion, regardless of the credibility or strength of their opponents.

Additionally, Oldham duplicates the sentiment "They were that great", which serves to declare his belief in the team's remarkable capabilities. The repetition underscores an ingrained conviction in their quality, recommending that the team consistently exhibited high performance levels that left a long lasting impression on him. This might also mean the regard and appreciation shared among the employee, or in the broader sports community, which might foster an environment where trust and synergy thrived.

In general, Oldham's words encapsulate more than just an assessment of talent; they show a deep regard and adoration for the gamers' abilities, unity, and decision. This quote not only highlights their competence and readiness to complete against any group however also reveals a sense of fond memories and pride, both in the team's accomplishments and in the camaraderie that likely existed within it.