After Ganzel's release by the Phillies, he was signed by manager Bill Watkins of the Detroit Wolverines. Within days of the signing, Detroit's correspondent to the "Sporting Life" was praising Ganzel and thanking Philadelphia:"Philadelphia has earned Detroit's sincere thanks. In Ganzel we have secured a first-class catcher. He is a jewel and will prove a splendid substitute for Charley Bennett. Ganzel was put in to catch the first game with Kansas City. He is an artistic catcher, and at once sprang into high favor with the audience. He accepted all his nine chances, threw Paul Rodford out at second twice, made a timely hit and a run. Once more, Philadelphia, thank you.