A National League Divided: The National Association 1876- - Page 3

Haystacks · 10-20-2025, 12:21 PM

National Association Record Book
Through the 1900 Season

SINGLE SEASON BATTING 446 PA required for season rate statistics
CAREER BATTING 2500 PA required for career rate statistics

Code:

Player               Value   Year   Board   Stat                          Board   Value   Player
George Dealy         .4222   1894   Season  Batting Average               Career  .3652   Allan Forrest
John Chark           .4892   1893   Season  On-Base Percentage            Career  .4527   John Pyle
Sidney Powers        .6618   1894   Season  Slugging Percentage           Career  .5504   Clinton Bayman
Sidney Powers        1.1288  1894   Season  On-Base + Slugging            Career  .9836   John Pyle
William Rheubottom    148    1893   Season  Games                         Career  2553    Jimmy Varney
Gustav Cropper        653    1899   Season  At-Bats                       Career 10561    Johannes Beekhof
Charles Goodfellow    173    1895   Season  Runs                          Career  2487    Johannes Beekhof
George Dealy          255    1894   Season  Hits                          Career  3256    Johannes Beekhof
Charles Goodfellow    373    1894   Season  Total Bases                   Career  4329    Johannes Beekhof
George Dealy          198    1895   Season  Singles                       Career  2588    Johannes Beekhof
Charles Goodfellow     57    1894   Season  Doubles                       Career   452    Charles Goodfellow
Clinton Bayman         47    1896   Season  Triples                       Career   319    Johannes Beekhof
Edward Moore           39    1887   Season  Home Runs                     Career   200    Jimmy Varney
James Logan           162    1894   Season  Runs Batted In                Career  1523    Jimmy Varney
Johannes Beekhof      208    1896   Season  Stolen Bases                  Career  2809    Johannes Beekhof
Reid Hopkins           67    1890   Season  Caught Stealing               Career   570    Johannes Beekhof
John Chark            144    1893   Season  Walks                         Career  1097    Lemuel Thompson
Moses Fleetwood       160    1886   Season  Strikeouts                    Career  1775    Moses Fleetwood
Sidney Powers         9.63   1890   Season  Wins Above Replacement        Career 154.05   Johannes Beekhof

[HR][/HR]

SINGLE SEASON PITCHING 144 IP required for season rate statistics
CAREER PITCHING 900 IP required for career rate statistics

Code:

Player               Value   Year   Board   Stat                          Board   Value   Player
Van Makeever         1.500   1876   Season  Earned Run Average            Career  2.389   John Hill
James Hall             43    1883   Season  Wins                          Career   485    James Hall
Van Makeever           38    1883   Season  Losses                        Career   326    Hector Romero
Samuel Moore          .889   1878   Season  Winning Percentage            Career   .629   Troy Kentwood
John O'Henry           14    1895   Season  Saves                         Career    57    John O'Henry
Thomas Peterson        67    1883   Season  Games                         Career   868    James Hall
Isaiah Hill            58    1883   Season  Games Started                 Career   847    James Hall
Henry Hall             49    1883   Season  Complete Games                Career   614    James Hall
Shaw Johnson            8    1898   Season  Shutouts                      Career    47    James Hall
James Hall           503.0   1883   Season  Innings Pitched               Career 7090.0    James Hall
Van Makeever          609    1883   Season  Hits Allowed                  Career  6843    James Hall
Henry Hall            109    1894   Season  Home Runs Allowed             Career   324    Henry Hall
James Hall            378    1883   Season  Strikeouts                    Career  4692    James Hall
Robert Howie          365    1893   Season  Bases on Balls                Career  2126    James Hall
Hector Romero         0.28   1879   Season  BB / 9 IP                     Career   0.80   Isaiah White
Jasper Carson         6.25   1890   Season  Hits Allowed / 9 IP           Career   8.19   Frank Johnson
James Hall            9.36   1888   Season  Strikeouts / 9 IP             Career   5.97   Robert Wilson
Benjamin Mitchell     0.86   1880   Season  WHIP                          Career   1.11   John Hill
Robert Wilson        .1874   1880   Season  Opponents AVG                 Career  .2306   Frank Johnson
Benjamin Mitchell    .2225   1880   Season  Opponents OBP                 Career  .2701   John Hill
Jasper Carson        .2324   1890   Season  Opponents SLG                 Career  .2990   Caleb Jackson
Jasper Carson        .4849   1890   Season  Opponents OPS                 Career  .5821   John Hill
Troy Kentwood        16.04   1893   Season  Wins Above Replacement        Career 151.02   James Hall

Compiled by the Office of the Secretary of the National Association, Season of 1900.

Haystacks · 10-20-2025, 12:25 PM

All-Time Club Records
(Through the 1900 Season)

Code:

Team                            Years          Record         Win%    Pennants   Champion
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New York Empire                 1876–1900      1610–1239       .565       9          4
   (New York Mutuals, New York Metropolitans)

Boston Whalers                  1876–1900      1554–1292       .546       7          1
   (Boston Red Stockings)

Cincinnati Originals             1876–1900      1545–1301       .543       5          4

Kansas City Cowboys              1890–1900       822–708        .537       2          2

St. Louis Canaries               1880–1900      1367–1199       .533       8          6
   (Louisville Colonels, St. Louis Rivermen)

Chicago Cardinals                1876–1900      1506–1340       .529       2          1
   (Chicago White Stockings, Chicago Red Caps)

Buffalo Bisons                   1890–1900       808–722        .528       0          0

Washington Senators              1883–1900      1161–1153       .502       1          0

Milwaukee Creams                 1876–1900      1428–1418       .502       2          0
   (Milwaukee Cream City)

Philadelphia Quakers             1876–1900      1429–1417       .502       2          0

St. Louis Beavers                1876–1900      1422–1424       .500       4          3
   (St. Louis Brown Stockings, St. Louis Browns)

Pittsburgh Allies                1890–1900       760–770        .497       1          1
   (Pittsburgh Alleghenys)

New York Union                   1880–1900      1258–1308       .490       2          0

Baltimore Blue Sox               1876–1900      1396–1452       .490       2          1
   (Hartford Dark Blues, Baltimore Dark Blues, Baltimore Blue Stockings)

Detroit Wolverines               1876–1900      1384–1462       .486       1          1

Twin Cities North Stars          1890–1900       729–801        .476       0          0
   (Minneapolis Millers)

Chicago Packers                  1880–1900      1212–1354       .472       1          1

Brooklyn Atlantics               1876–1900      1317–1529       .463       0          0
   (Brooklyn Atlantic Club)

Cleveland Colts                  1876–1900      1219–1627       .428       0          0
   (Cleveland Lakeshore Club, Cleveland Lakeshores)

Philadelphia Olympics            1880–1900      1088–1478       .424       0          0
   (Philadelphia Olympics)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Providence Grays – Inactive      1876–1882       256–277        .480       1          0

Compiled by the Office of the Secretary of the National Association, Season of 1900.

Haystacks · 10-20-2025, 02:58 PM

Notable Hitters of the Early Era:

Johannes Beekhof

It will be forever impossible to discuss the Early Era of professional baseball without mentioning Johannes Beekhof.

The center-fielder, a native of Kentucky, started his career in Louisville, at only 19 years-old he was part of the Colonels team that joined the National Association in 1880.

In his second season in professional baseball, at only 20, he would lead the Western League in runs scored, hits, stolen bases and batting average - for his efforts he would win his first (of 10) Most Distinguished Player Medals.

As Beekhof would dominate for the 1880s and into the 1890s, he would be the leader in a team of greats, that would also dominate, winning 8 Western League Pennants and 6 National Championships.

Almost as soon as the 1895 season closed, Beekhof having just turned 35, was traded to the Chicago Cardinals for a 3 man slate of youngsters. None of which would really have a notable impact on the fortune of the St. Louis Canaries, as they would enter a period of decline.

It was reported Beekhof had been trying to force a move for the last few seasons, he had grown discontent after the club he dedicated the best years of his life to, had abandoned Louisville, and his beloved Kentucky.

It was clear the aging start still had plenty to offer, in his first year in Chicago he would lead the Western League in hits, and stolen bases, putting up his highest ever number, with 208 steals (the highest number of steals in a season by any player to date). As the century came to an end he was still unstoppable on the base paths, having lead the league in stolen bases every year since 1893.

At the time of writing, as we enter the 20th century, Johannes Beekhof is the career leader in 9 separate statistical categories, and he shows no sign that he intends to retire anytime soon.

Jimmy Varney

Jimmy Varney's longevity is what separates him from the rest, perhaps his most notable achievement being that he is the last active player from in inaugural 1876 season, and it would appear he intends to continue into the 20th century.

When Varney made his debut at only 17 years old for the Chicago Cardinals he could record an out by catching a foul ball on a bounce and a fielders glove was just a dream.

It was his exceptional defensive skill that saw him become a vital piece in the Cardinals line-up, he would start every game from 1876 until finally missing a hand full of games in the 1894 season.

At 30 years-old Varney's career would enter a new, unexpected era, he became on of baseball's first power-hitters. Between 1889 and 1897 he would lead the Western League in home runs every season, peaking with a anomalous 37 in 1894.

After two Pennants and one National Championship with the Cardinals, at 37, he was traded to the Minneapolis Millers (Twin Cities North Stars). On entering his 40s he has started to feature less frequently, becoming more of a bench player and defensive substitution, but he shows no sign of hanging up his uniform yet.

As the 1900 season ended, Varney sat top of the career homerun leaderboard with 200, and career RBIs with 1523, 151 more than the reitired second place Henry Green.

Henry Wharton

At 29 when he debuted for New York Empire, Henry Wharton was quite the late-comer to professional baseball. With time not on his side, Wharton hit the ground running, leading the Eastern League in stolen bases for 1881 and picking up his first (of 4) Most Distinguished Player Medals.

Wharton would go on a 5 year streak of leading the East in stolen bases, his peak years coming at the age of 31 until 33, when he also lead the league in hits and runs for 3 back to back seasons, and doubles for 2 consecutive season.

During his time at the club, Wharton would be part of a domination of the Eastern League, winning 8 Pennants and 4 National Championship Series. He was so vital to this success he twice was awarded the Series Silver Ball, for his outstanding post-season performances.

Henry 'Warthog' Wharton retired after the 1895 season, at the age of 43.

Henry Green

Henry Green was a 24 year-old third baseman when Louisville joined the National Association. Although perhaps forgotten in Beekhof's long shadow, Green proved equally vital to the organization's success.

Green would lead the league twice in hits, once in doubles and once in batting average, over the Colonels period of dominance.

He would consistently put up solid hitting numbers and be a rock defensively, making him a mainstay of the line-up until he was traded to Detroit after the 1895 season.

During the 6 National Championship wins with the Louisville Colones/St. Louis Cardinals, green would be awarded the Series Silver Ball in 1881 and 1884, but his winning days weren't over after the trade.

Green would feature in 110 games as the Detroit Wolverines won their first Pennant and National Championship.

At his retirement in 1900, Green's career average of .310 is bested only by two other retired players, and he sits behind Beekhof in career hits and singles, and second in career RBIs with 1372.

Charles Goodfellow

Goodfellow had been on the list of many a professional club scout that had seen him hit in the factory leagues of Pennsylvania, but when Pittsburgh came knocking, the local boy could not refuse.

24 year-old Goodfellow would hit the ground running in professional ball, leading the league in runs, hits , doubles and average, for his debut season. He would dominate the Most Distinguished Player Medal, winning 5 in a row, and win Pittsburgh's first Pennant and National Championship with the club.

Goodfellow is one of only 9 players to finish a season with an average over .400, sitting on a lifetime average of .359. At only 34, looks to have a number of solid playing years ahead of him as the league enters the 20th century.

Notable Pitchers of the Early Era

James Hall

James Hall is without question the most dominant pitcher of the early era of professional baseball.

Hall made his debut in 1878 for the New York Empire at 23 years-old. After a respectable first season, Hall would lead the league in ERA in 1879, with 1.77, and become a vital piece in the Empire's dominance of the coming years.

Hall would be so dominant on the mound, so skilled at the deception, he would lead the Eastern League in strikeouts from 1880 until 1894, surely an unbreakable record.

After a glittering career with New York Empire, Hall would be the first player to be traded between the cross town rivals, and head to New York Union. At New York Union he would become the first player to win a pennant with both New York clubs, as he was part of the Union team that won the 1895 and '97 Eastern League Pennants.

It is important to note the majority of Hall's career was when the pitcher was positioned significantly closer to the batters box, but even in the first season at 60ft and 6 inches away from the batter, at 39 years-old, Hall still managed to lead the league in strikeouts.

Upon retiring, James Hall would lead the charts in countless career and season pitching records, with many looking unbreakable. He was one of the first winner's of the pitching triple crown in 1883.

Henry Hall

The Western League had a Hall of their very own. Henry Hall was without a doubt the dominant pitcher of the West in this early era.

He dominated strikeouts, for 8 consecutive years leading the Western League, winning the pitching triple crown in 1883, by coincidence the same year James Hall won his. In his time with the Chicago Cardinals, Henry Hall would be part of the roster that won the 1877 Championship, and an additional Western League Pennant in 1883.

Hall joined Kansas City at 40, but perhaps should have chosen retirement instead. He endured two terrible years in Kansas City, in his final year putting up a 8.53 ERA over 313.1 IP - perhaps unable to endure both aging and the increased distance to the batters box.

Haystacks · 10-20-2025, 05:17 PM

1900-01 Off-Season

Winter Meeting

As the world moved into the 20th Century, so did baseball. At the Winter Meeting it was agreed to commission a trophy for the winners of the Championship Series, to add emphasises to the importance of the series as the grand prize – to date winning the series just earned the winner an additional Pennant to fly with their league winner pennant.

The trophy was named the ‘Hulbert Trophy’, in honour of William Hulbert, who had just announced his resignation as Association President. Hulbert had been instrumental in founding the National Association, serving as it’s second President from 1877-1900, and is owner of the Chicago Cardinals franchise.

The National Championship Series was official renamed the ‘World’s Championship Series’.

Finally the general meeting implemented the following rule changes for the 1901 season:
All*foul balls*are to count as*strike*balls, except after two strikes. Previously, foul balls would not affect the*count. To cut the cost of lost foul balls, the committee urges that*batters*who foul off good strikes are to be disciplined. The*American League*will not adopt this rule until the 1903 season.
1. A one-ball*penalty would be imposed if the*pitcher*throws a warm-up toss to anyone except the*catcher.
2. Catchers play within 10 feet of the batter.
3. A ball will be called if the pitcher does not throw to a ready and waiting batter within 20 seconds.
4. Players using indecent or improper language will be banished by the*umpire.

New Ballpark in Saint Louis.

The Saint Louis Canaries finally move into their own ballpark in the city.

Since 1900 they had shared Sportsmans Park with the Saint Louis Beavers, owner James Johnson considered it vital to his legacy that the organization had their own, permanent home in the city.

Johnson Park opens for the 1901 season, boasting capacity for around 15,000 spectators, with a covered, brick-built main grandstand, and uncovered wooden bleachers, extending beyond the brick structure along the foul lines, and in the outfield.

Crowds gather around the St. Louis Canaries ballplayers during the pre-game warm ups, opening day 1901.

Minneapolis Millers become Twin Cities

Charles Barger, the owner of the Minneapolis organization, grew anxious that baseball enthusiasts in neighbouring Saint Paul were reluctant to root for the Minneapolis club.

For the 1901 season, Barger announced the organization would be renamed Twin Cities Baseball Club – privately he would encourage writers to explore a nickname convention that would not alienate either cities populace. Baseball writers would refer to the club as North Stars.

Haystacks · 10-20-2025, 05:52 PM

1901 Preseason Predictions

Baseball writers across the country began publishing their predictions for the first season of the 20th century.

The general consensus was that the Eastern League would be a race between the Boston Whalers and New York Empire, whilst the Western League would be between the Cleveland Colts and Kansas City Cowboys.

1901 Cleveland Colts

1901 Kansas City Cowboys

1901 Boston Whalers

1901 New York Empire

Players to Watch
The top 3 hitters and pitchers in each league that the writers are predicting will have the strongest year.

Eastern League Top Hitters

Edward Peak, 1B, Buffalo - his second season in professional ball, certain to build on the solid foundation he laid last season.

James Thomas, LF, Boston - Winner of last season's Most Distinguished Freshman Medal, and Series Silver Ball winner as Boston won their first Championship.

Clarence Werrick, CF, New York Empire - If Empire are to challenge for the pennant, much will depend on Werrick's hitting and his sure defence.

Eastern League Top Pitchers

Thomas Sutherland, New York Empire - Another man the hopes of the Empire faithful will rest upon. Sutherland led the league in strikeouts in 1896, now entering his 30s he should be reaching his peak years, much is expected.

Leroy Chumley, Boston - Last season's Most Distinguished Hurler Medal winner, rumour is Chumley has become the highest paid pitcher in the Association. If Boston are to challenge again, a lot will depend on Chumley maintain his great form into a new year.

Thomas Adams, Philadelphia Olympics - The 25-year old hurler has already started 193 games since his debut season in 1897, is ability on the mound could make the difference with Olympics recording a losing season or a winning season.

Western League Top Hitters

John Richards, 2B, St. Louis Canaries - Richards is without question one of, if not the best contact hitter in the Western League. Since his debut in 1899, Richards has led batting average for two consecutive seasons. The hopes of Canaries rooters rest on Richards, they pray that he has the strength to lead this team away from the bottom end of the Western League standings.

William Thompson, LF, Milwaukee - Thompson led the league in RBIs in 1898, and in doubles last season. His ability to drive in runs will mean the difference between success and failure for the Creams.

Clinton Bayman, CF, Kansas City - Kansas City baseball is a family business, Bayman is managed by his uncle, James, and his father recently retired as the Cowboys hitting coach. The 27 year old has been the engine of Kansas City's recent success, picking up 3 consecutive Most Distinguished Player Medals on the way. If the Cowboys are to continue to challenge for Pennants, Clinton Bayman will play a large part in it.

Western League Top Pitchers

Robert McKay, Kansas City - McKay is a new addition to the Kansas City roster, and all eyes will be on him. Pitching is the weak link in the Cowboys roster, McKay will have to adapt to professional life fast if the season is going to be a success.

Art Philpot, Saint Louis Beavers - Philpot won the triple crown in 1897 at only 20 years-old, 3 of his 5 seasons have seen him lead the Western League in strikeouts. As Philpot moves into his mid-twenties, expectation is for the hurler to dominate the pitching charts for years to come as he enters prime ballplaying years.

John Darrisaw, Cleveland Colts - Darrisaw showed great promise in his debut season last year, leading the league in innings pitched. There is expectation that Darrisaw will play a large part in finally bringing Pennant to Cleveland.

Haystacks · 10-21-2025, 05:38 PM

Historically Bad Start
Tuesday, May 14, 1901

After yesterday’s 0–2 loss at the Chicago Cardinals, the Detroit Wolverines find themselves rooted to the bottom of the Western League, with an abysmal one win in their first twenty-five games.
That lone victory came back on April 30th — against the current league leaders, the St. Louis Canaries.

This is a team with winning experience. Thirteen of the players on the 20-man roster were with the organization when it captured the 1897 Championship. Experienced outfielder James Logan, a new arrival from Kansas City, brings pedigree as part of the Cowboys’ two title-winning teams.

Yet with all this experience, the Wolverines look utterly adrift — lost in the field, lifeless on the mound, and hopeless in the batter’s box.

As a team, Detroit ranks bottom in the Western League for batting average, hits, and bases on balls, and stand only 8th in runs scored.
Opposing hitters must relish their turn against the Wolverines’ pitching staff — opponents are batting a staggering .309 against them. The rotation ranks ninth in ERA, runs allowed, and hits allowed.

Manager Ripley Simons has a quality record in Detroit, his only losing season coming in 1892, his first year with the club. Despite the pressure mounting with every new defeat, Ripley has remained cool-headed.

This situation will be the last thing Detroit's new owner, Seth Hazen will have expected when he took control of the organization is past off-season. As calls for change at the helm grow, Mister Hazen has yet to make his intentions known, whilst he will no doubt respect Mister Simons record, a new owner will always want to make their mark on their organization.

“They look beaten before the first pitch is even thrown.” – Detroit Gazette

EASTERN LEAGUE STANDINGS

Code:

Team                     W    L     PCT    GB
----------------------------------------------
New York Empire          18    7    .720     -
Washington Senators      15   10    .600     3.0
Philadelphia Olympics    14   11    .560     4.0
Boston Whalers           13   12    .520     5.0
Philadelphia Quakers     12   12    .500     5.5
New York Union           13   14    .481     6.0
Baltimore Blue Sox       12   13    .480     6.0
Brooklyn Atlantics       11   14    .440     7.0
Buffalo Bisons           10   15    .400     8.0
Pittsburgh Allies         6   16    .273    10.5

WESTERN LEAGUE STANDINGS

Code:

Team                     W    L     PCT    GB
----------------------------------------------
St. Louis Canaries        17    7    .708     -
Cincinnati Originals      18    9    .667     0.5
Kansas City Cowboys       15   10    .600     2.5
Cleveland Colts           15   10    .600     2.5
St. Louis Beavers         14   11    .560     3.5
Chicago Packers           13   13    .500     5.0
Milwaukee Creams          13   13    .500     5.0
Chicago Cardinals         10   14    .417     7.0
Twin Cities North Stars   10   15    .400     7.5
Detroit Wolverines         1   24    .040    16.5

10-20-2025, 02:58 PM	#43
Haystacks Minors (Double A) Join Date: Jan 2022 Location: Manchester, UK Posts: 170	Notable Players of the Early Era Notable Hitters of the Early Era: Johannes Beekhof It will be forever impossible to discuss the Early Era of professional baseball without mentioning Johannes Beekhof. The center-fielder, a native of Kentucky, started his career in Louisville, at only 19 years-old he was part of the Colonels team that joined the National Association in 1880. In his second season in professional baseball, at only 20, he would lead the Western League in runs scored, hits, stolen bases and batting average - for his efforts he would win his first (of 10) Most Distinguished Player Medals. As Beekhof would dominate for the 1880s and into the 1890s, he would be the leader in a team of greats, that would also dominate, winning 8 Western League Pennants and 6 National Championships. Almost as soon as the 1895 season closed, Beekhof having just turned 35, was traded to the Chicago Cardinals for a 3 man slate of youngsters. None of which would really have a notable impact on the fortune of the St. Louis Canaries, as they would enter a period of decline. It was reported Beekhof had been trying to force a move for the last few seasons, he had grown discontent after the club he dedicated the best years of his life to, had abandoned Louisville, and his beloved Kentucky. It was clear the aging start still had plenty to offer, in his first year in Chicago he would lead the Western League in hits, and stolen bases, putting up his highest ever number, with 208 steals (the highest number of steals in a season by any player to date). As the century came to an end he was still unstoppable on the base paths, having lead the league in stolen bases every year since 1893. At the time of writing, as we enter the 20th century, Johannes Beekhof is the career leader in 9 separate statistical categories, and he shows no sign that he intends to retire anytime soon. Jimmy Varney Jimmy Varney's longevity is what separates him from the rest, perhaps his most notable achievement being that he is the last active player from in inaugural 1876 season, and it would appear he intends to continue into the 20th century. When Varney made his debut at only 17 years old for the Chicago Cardinals he could record an out by catching a foul ball on a bounce and a fielders glove was just a dream. It was his exceptional defensive skill that saw him become a vital piece in the Cardinals line-up, he would start every game from 1876 until finally missing a hand full of games in the 1894 season. At 30 years-old Varney's career would enter a new, unexpected era, he became on of baseball's first power-hitters. Between 1889 and 1897 he would lead the Western League in home runs every season, peaking with a anomalous 37 in 1894. After two Pennants and one National Championship with the Cardinals, at 37, he was traded to the Minneapolis Millers (Twin Cities North Stars). On entering his 40s he has started to feature less frequently, becoming more of a bench player and defensive substitution, but he shows no sign of hanging up his uniform yet. As the 1900 season ended, Varney sat top of the career homerun leaderboard with 200, and career RBIs with 1523, 151 more than the reitired second place Henry Green. Henry Wharton At 29 when he debuted for New York Empire, Henry Wharton was quite the late-comer to professional baseball. With time not on his side, Wharton hit the ground running, leading the Eastern League in stolen bases for 1881 and picking up his first (of 4) Most Distinguished Player Medals. Wharton would go on a 5 year streak of leading the East in stolen bases, his peak years coming at the age of 31 until 33, when he also lead the league in hits and runs for 3 back to back seasons, and doubles for 2 consecutive season. During his time at the club, Wharton would be part of a domination of the Eastern League, winning 8 Pennants and 4 National Championship Series. He was so vital to this success he twice was awarded the Series Silver Ball, for his outstanding post-season performances. Henry 'Warthog' Wharton retired after the 1895 season, at the age of 43. Henry Green Henry Green was a 24 year-old third baseman when Louisville joined the National Association. Although perhaps forgotten in Beekhof's long shadow, Green proved equally vital to the organization's success. Green would lead the league twice in hits, once in doubles and once in batting average, over the Colonels period of dominance. He would consistently put up solid hitting numbers and be a rock defensively, making him a mainstay of the line-up until he was traded to Detroit after the 1895 season. During the 6 National Championship wins with the Louisville Colones/St. Louis Cardinals, green would be awarded the Series Silver Ball in 1881 and 1884, but his winning days weren't over after the trade. Green would feature in 110 games as the Detroit Wolverines won their first Pennant and National Championship. At his retirement in 1900, Green's career average of .310 is bested only by two other retired players, and he sits behind Beekhof in career hits and singles, and second in career RBIs with 1372. Charles Goodfellow Goodfellow had been on the list of many a professional club scout that had seen him hit in the factory leagues of Pennsylvania, but when Pittsburgh came knocking, the local boy could not refuse. 24 year-old Goodfellow would hit the ground running in professional ball, leading the league in runs, hits , doubles and average, for his debut season. He would dominate the Most Distinguished Player Medal, winning 5 in a row, and win Pittsburgh's first Pennant and National Championship with the club. Goodfellow is one of only 9 players to finish a season with an average over .400, sitting on a lifetime average of .359. At only 34, looks to have a number of solid playing years ahead of him as the league enters the 20th century. Notable Pitchers of the Early Era James Hall James Hall is without question the most dominant pitcher of the early era of professional baseball. Hall made his debut in 1878 for the New York Empire at 23 years-old. After a respectable first season, Hall would lead the league in ERA in 1879, with 1.77, and become a vital piece in the Empire's dominance of the coming years. Hall would be so dominant on the mound, so skilled at the deception, he would lead the Eastern League in strikeouts from 1880 until 1894, surely an unbreakable record. After a glittering career with New York Empire, Hall would be the first player to be traded between the cross town rivals, and head to New York Union. At New York Union he would become the first player to win a pennant with both New York clubs, as he was part of the Union team that won the 1895 and '97 Eastern League Pennants. It is important to note the majority of Hall's career was when the pitcher was positioned significantly closer to the batters box, but even in the first season at 60ft and 6 inches away from the batter, at 39 years-old, Hall still managed to lead the league in strikeouts. Upon retiring, James Hall would lead the charts in countless career and season pitching records, with many looking unbreakable. He was one of the first winner's of the pitching triple crown in 1883. Henry Hall The Western League had a Hall of their very own. Henry Hall was without a doubt the dominant pitcher of the West in this early era. He dominated strikeouts, for 8 consecutive years leading the Western League, winning the pitching triple crown in 1883, by coincidence the same year James Hall won his. In his time with the Chicago Cardinals, Henry Hall would be part of the roster that won the 1877 Championship, and an additional Western League Pennant in 1883. Hall joined Kansas City at 40, but perhaps should have chosen retirement instead. He endured two terrible years in Kansas City, in his final year putting up a 8.53 ERA over 313.1 IP - perhaps unable to endure both aging and the increased distance to the batters box. Last edited by Haystacks; 10-21-2025 at 05:51 PM.

10-20-2025, 05:17 PM	#44
Haystacks Minors (Double A) Join Date: Jan 2022 Location: Manchester, UK Posts: 170	1900-01 Off Season 1900-01 Off-Season Winter Meeting As the world moved into the 20th Century, so did baseball. At the Winter Meeting it was agreed to commission a trophy for the winners of the Championship Series, to add emphasises to the importance of the series as the grand prize – to date winning the series just earned the winner an additional Pennant to fly with their league winner pennant. The trophy was named the ‘Hulbert Trophy’, in honour of William Hulbert, who had just announced his resignation as Association President. Hulbert had been instrumental in founding the National Association, serving as it’s second President from 1877-1900, and is owner of the Chicago Cardinals franchise. The National Championship Series was official renamed the ‘World’s Championship Series’. Finally the general meeting implemented the following rule changes for the 1901 season: Allfoul ballsare to count asstrikeballs, except after two strikes. Previously, foul balls would not affect thecount. To cut the cost of lost foul balls, the committee urges thatbatterswho foul off good strikes are to be disciplined. TheAmerican Leaguewill not adopt this rule until the 1903 season. 1. A one-ballpenalty would be imposed if thepitcherthrows a warm-up toss to anyone except thecatcher. 2. Catchers play within 10 feet of the batter. 3. A ball will be called if the pitcher does not throw to a ready and waiting batter within 20 seconds. 4. Players using indecent or improper language will be banished by theumpire. New Ballpark in Saint Louis. The Saint Louis Canaries finally move into their own ballpark in the city. Since 1900 they had shared Sportsmans Park with the Saint Louis Beavers, owner James Johnson considered it vital to his legacy that the organization had their own, permanent home in the city. Johnson Park opens for the 1901 season, boasting capacity for around 15,000 spectators, with a covered, brick-built main grandstand, and uncovered wooden bleachers, extending beyond the brick structure along the foul lines, and in the outfield. Crowds gather around the St. Louis Canaries ballplayers during the pre-game warm ups, opening day 1901. Minneapolis Millers become Twin Cities Charles Barger, the owner of the Minneapolis organization, grew anxious that baseball enthusiasts in neighbouring Saint Paul were reluctant to root for the Minneapolis club. For the 1901 season, Barger announced the organization would be renamed Twin Cities Baseball Club – privately he would encourage writers to explore a nickname convention that would not alienate either cities populace. Baseball writers would refer to the club as North Stars.

10-20-2025, 05:52 PM	#45
Haystacks Minors (Double A) Join Date: Jan 2022 Location: Manchester, UK Posts: 170	1901 Preseason Predictions 1901 Preseason Predictions Baseball writers across the country began publishing their predictions for the first season of the 20th century. The general consensus was that the Eastern League would be a race between the Boston Whalers and New York Empire, whilst the Western League would be between the Cleveland Colts and Kansas City Cowboys. 1901 Cleveland Colts 1901 Kansas City Cowboys 1901 Boston Whalers 1901 New York Empire Players to Watch The top 3 hitters and pitchers in each league that the writers are predicting will have the strongest year. Eastern League Top Hitters Edward Peak, 1B, Buffalo - his second season in professional ball, certain to build on the solid foundation he laid last season. James Thomas, LF, Boston - Winner of last season's Most Distinguished Freshman Medal, and Series Silver Ball winner as Boston won their first Championship. Clarence Werrick, CF, New York Empire - If Empire are to challenge for the pennant, much will depend on Werrick's hitting and his sure defence. Eastern League Top Pitchers Thomas Sutherland, New York Empire - Another man the hopes of the Empire faithful will rest upon. Sutherland led the league in strikeouts in 1896, now entering his 30s he should be reaching his peak years, much is expected. Leroy Chumley, Boston - Last season's Most Distinguished Hurler Medal winner, rumour is Chumley has become the highest paid pitcher in the Association. If Boston are to challenge again, a lot will depend on Chumley maintain his great form into a new year. Thomas Adams, Philadelphia Olympics - The 25-year old hurler has already started 193 games since his debut season in 1897, is ability on the mound could make the difference with Olympics recording a losing season or a winning season. Western League Top Hitters John Richards, 2B, St. Louis Canaries - Richards is without question one of, if not the best contact hitter in the Western League. Since his debut in 1899, Richards has led batting average for two consecutive seasons. The hopes of Canaries rooters rest on Richards, they pray that he has the strength to lead this team away from the bottom end of the Western League standings. William Thompson, LF, Milwaukee - Thompson led the league in RBIs in 1898, and in doubles last season. His ability to drive in runs will mean the difference between success and failure for the Creams. Clinton Bayman, CF, Kansas City - Kansas City baseball is a family business, Bayman is managed by his uncle, James, and his father recently retired as the Cowboys hitting coach. The 27 year old has been the engine of Kansas City's recent success, picking up 3 consecutive Most Distinguished Player Medals on the way. If the Cowboys are to continue to challenge for Pennants, Clinton Bayman will play a large part in it. Western League Top Pitchers Robert McKay, Kansas City - McKay is a new addition to the Kansas City roster, and all eyes will be on him. Pitching is the weak link in the Cowboys roster, McKay will have to adapt to professional life fast if the season is going to be a success. Art Philpot, Saint Louis Beavers - Philpot won the triple crown in 1897 at only 20 years-old, 3 of his 5 seasons have seen him lead the Western League in strikeouts. As Philpot moves into his mid-twenties, expectation is for the hurler to dominate the pitching charts for years to come as he enters prime ballplaying years. John Darrisaw, Cleveland Colts - Darrisaw showed great promise in his debut season last year, leading the league in innings pitched. There is expectation that Darrisaw will play a large part in finally bringing Pennant to Cleveland.

10-21-2025, 05:38 PM	#46
Haystacks Minors (Double A) Join Date: Jan 2022 Location: Manchester, UK Posts: 170	Historically Bad Start in Detroit Historically Bad Start Tuesday, May 14, 1901 After yesterday’s 0–2 loss at the Chicago Cardinals, the Detroit Wolverines find themselves rooted to the bottom of the Western League, with an abysmal one win in their first twenty-five games. That lone victory came back on April 30th — against the current league leaders, the St. Louis Canaries. This is a team with winning experience. Thirteen of the players on the 20-man roster were with the organization when it captured the 1897 Championship. Experienced outfielder James Logan, a new arrival from Kansas City, brings pedigree as part of the Cowboys’ two title-winning teams. Yet with all this experience, the Wolverines look utterly adrift — lost in the field, lifeless on the mound, and hopeless in the batter’s box. As a team, Detroit ranks bottom in the Western League for batting average, hits, and bases on balls, and stand only 8th in runs scored. Opposing hitters must relish their turn against the Wolverines’ pitching staff — opponents are batting a staggering .309 against them. The rotation ranks ninth in ERA, runs allowed, and hits allowed. Manager Ripley Simons has a quality record in Detroit, his only losing season coming in 1892, his first year with the club. Despite the pressure mounting with every new defeat, Ripley has remained cool-headed. This situation will be the last thing Detroit's new owner, Seth Hazen will have expected when he took control of the organization is past off-season. As calls for change at the helm grow, Mister Hazen has yet to make his intentions known, whilst he will no doubt respect Mister Simons record, a new owner will always want to make their mark on their organization. “They look beaten before the first pitch is even thrown.” – Detroit Gazette EASTERN LEAGUE STANDINGS Code: Team W L PCT GB ---------------------------------------------- New York Empire 18 7 .720 - Washington Senators 15 10 .600 3.0 Philadelphia Olympics 14 11 .560 4.0 Boston Whalers 13 12 .520 5.0 Philadelphia Quakers 12 12 .500 5.5 New York Union 13 14 .481 6.0 Baltimore Blue Sox 12 13 .480 6.0 Brooklyn Atlantics 11 14 .440 7.0 Buffalo Bisons 10 15 .400 8.0 Pittsburgh Allies 6 16 .273 10.5 WESTERN LEAGUE STANDINGS Code: Team W L PCT GB ---------------------------------------------- St. Louis Canaries 17 7 .708 - Cincinnati Originals 18 9 .667 0.5 Kansas City Cowboys 15 10 .600 2.5 Cleveland Colts 15 10 .600 2.5 St. Louis Beavers 14 11 .560 3.5 Chicago Packers 13 13 .500 5.0 Milwaukee Creams 13 13 .500 5.0 Chicago Cardinals 10 14 .417 7.0 Twin Cities North Stars 10 15 .400 7.5 Detroit Wolverines 1 24 .040 16.5 Last edited by Haystacks; 10-21-2025 at 05:40 PM.