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1880 season

Everyone anticipated the Providence Greys would replicate their success from '79, but a complete collapse in September dashed their hopes. This disastrous final month opened the door for Chicago, who seized their first championship since their legendary 1876 team. The White Stockings, led by rookie sensation Larry Corcoran, who won the Pitching Triple Crown and became the first pitcher in league history to win 50 games (falling just six wins short of Al Spalding's record in the National Association), were unstoppable. George Gore, the league's best hitter with a .365 batting average, along with solid performances from Cap Anson, Abner Dalrymple, King Kelly, and Joe Quest, solidified their dominance.

Notably, the Troy Trojans made significant progress in their sophomore year, bolstered by standout rookies like Mickey Welch, who recorded 35 wins, and Roger Connor, who contributed a .298 batting average, 2 home runs, and 52 RBIs.

However, the season's end brought troubling news for the league's stability with the situation in Cincinnati, one of the original National League franchises. Despite on-field success over the past three seasons, the team faced severe financial difficulties. The Reds narrowly avoided folding last year when Justus Thorner purchased the team at the last minute. Unfortunately, their financial situation did not improve in 1880, forcing the team to cease operations. To maintain an eight-team league structure, the seven remaining club owners awarded a franchise to the city of Detroit for the upcoming season.