Philadelphia Athletics
Owner: Seth Lord
Lord comes from a prominent Philadelphia family and has decided to jump head-first into the whole "baseball craze." Although he has no formal baseball experience (he has said that cricket was always his ball and bat game of choice and that he has never even played baseball), he does bring a healthy influx of cash to the Athletics as they make the transition to professionalism. His first act was to hire long-time friend "King" Westley as the Athletic's field manager.
Manager: James "King" Westley
Known more for his exploits as a socialite and play-boy, Westley does supply Lord with some baseball know-how since he spent a few years playing organized baseball as an amateur. Whether or not Westley's fiery personality will bring the Athletics success on the diamond remains to be seen.
Despite the inexperience of the front office, owner Lord, general manager Kerns and manager Westley were able to secure the services of several high-profile professional players.
George Hall -- Hall will make his professional debut with the Athletics and is expected to man one of the outfield positions. He is a skilled batter and fielder. He is definitely a player in the new league to watch.
John Hatfield -- He is a batting star and versatile fielder who started his baseball career for the Mutual Base Ball Club of New York, both before and after spending the 1868 season as left fielder for the Cincinnati Red Stockings. Left field is his primary position. He is also famous for his "world record" long-distance throw. During an 1868 exhibition at Cincinnati's Union Grounds he threw the baseball 132 yards.
Andy Leonard -- A solid talent who can play the infield and outfield equally well. Originally born in County Cavan, Ireland, Leonard got his start in the game in New York, and later spent some time with the Cincinnati Buckeyes.
Cal McVey -- is one of the league's top catchers. He is powerfully built, with broad shoulders and barrel chest...handsome though shy, and is a favorite of the ladies. He is very conscientious and a hard worker...a good fielder, but his strength is with the ash in his hands...he has a great arm for a catcher.
George Bechtel -- A local player who has blossomed into a star. He can pitch and play in the outfield. He is a solid, if unspectacular, batsman and shows great instincts on the basepaths.