Baseball from 1871

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The Baseball Times
April 19th, 1890

Larry McKeon Shuts Down Boston in 8-0 Victory



Cincinnati Wildcats pitcher Larry McKeon put on a masterful performance, blanking the Boston Rebels in an 8-0 win. McKeon allowed only 4 hits while striking out 7 batters, completely stifling Boston’s offense.

The hometown crowd at Wildcats Park showed their appreciation, giving McKeon a standing ovation as he left the field. The applause continued until he returned from the dugout to tip his cap.

“Wildcats fans are the best fans, in my opinion,” McKeon said after the game. “It’s a great feeling to throw a shutout under any circumstances, but to do it with the crowd behind you like that is just incredible.”

Kid Nichols Tosses Shutout in 1-0 Barons Win Over Washington



Kid Nichols delivered yet another stellar performance, throwing a complete-game shutout to lead the Baltimore Barons to a tight 1-0 victory over the Washington Americans at Barons Park. Nichols allowed just 6 hits, striking out 4 and walking 4, as his pinpoint control kept Washington’s hitters at bay throughout the game.

The win was hard-fought, with Nichols’ ability to stay composed under pressure making the difference in the low-scoring affair. The 21-year-old continues to be a force on the mound for Baltimore.

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The Baseball Times
April 23rd, 1890

Larry Corcoran Leads Stallions to 2-0 Win Over Washington



Philadelphia Stallions pitcher Larry Corcoran went the distance at Washington Stadium, guiding his team to a 2-0 shutout victory over the Washington Americans. Corcoran was in fine form, allowing just 4 hits while striking out 4 and issuing 2 walks.

His control and stamina on the mound were key to the Stallions’ victory, helping them notch another important win in the early part of the season.

Bob Black Shuts Down Louisville in 3-0 Chicago Victory



Bob Black was nearly untouchable as he pitched the Chicago Cardinals to a 3-0 win over the Louisville Captains at Captains Ballpark. Black gave up just 5 hits, struck out 2, and kept the Captains off the scoreboard for the entire game.

"If there was a stat for 'team shutout,' this would be it," Black said after the game. "My catcher called a great game, guys delivered at the plate, and when I messed something up, the guys behind me were where they needed to be."

The Cardinals’ defense and timely hitting made Black’s strong outing even more effective, securing the win.

Philadelphia Thunder’s Bill Stearns Out 6 Weeks with Hamstring Injury



Philadelphia Thunder pitcher Bill Stearns will be sidelined for the next six weeks after straining his hamstring during today’s game against the St. Louis Roughnecks. Stearns, who has struggled this season with a 1-3 record, suffered the injury while pitching in the loss.

The injury comes as a blow to the Thunder, who will need to adjust their rotation as they push forward without one of their key arms.

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The Baseball Times
April 24th, 1890

Boston Rebels Win, but Lose Fred Lewis to Injury



The Boston Rebels secured a victory over the Cleveland Royals today, but the win came with a significant loss. First baseman Fred Lewis suffered a strained hamstring while running the bases and will be sidelined for the next six weeks.

Lewis has been a key contributor for Boston this season, posting a .310 batting average with 8 runs and 8 RBIs. His absence will undoubtedly be felt as the Rebels look to maintain momentum in his absence.

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The Baseball Times
April 26th, 1890

Kid Gleason’s Complete-Game Shutout Powers Chicago to 7-0 Victory



Chicago Cardinals pitcher Kid Gleason delivered a stellar performance at Cardinals Ballpark, throwing a complete-game shutout in a 7-0 win over the St. Louis Roughnecks. The 24-year-old right-hander was dominant on the mound, allowing just 3 hits and issuing 3 walks while keeping St. Louis off the scoreboard.

Despite the challenges, Gleason maintained a positive attitude. “3 hits?” he said with a laugh after the game. “Listen, I’d be happy with a 30-hitter, as long as it was a shutout.”

Gleason's exceptional outing underscores his strong season, as he now holds a 2-2 record with a 2.03 ERA. His performance today was a key factor in Chicago’s commanding win.

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The Baseball Times
April 27th, 1890

Matt Kilroy Shuts Out New York in 4-0 Victory



Detroit Lakers pitcher Matt Kilroy turned in an impressive performance, leading his team to a 4-0 win over the New York Saints. The 24-year-old right-hander was masterful on the mound, allowing 11 hits but keeping the Saints from scoring.

Kilroy's strong outing adds to his stellar season. With a record of 5 wins and 2 losses and a remarkable 1.12 ERA, he has struck out 44 batters in 64 innings over 7 games. His performance today solidifies his reputation as one of the league's top pitchers.

Louisville’s O'Brien Out 3-4 Weeks with Fractured Rib



The Louisville Captains suffered a setback in their loss to the Philadelphia Thunder as left fielder O'Brien was injured during a routine defensive play. The diagnosis is a fractured rib, which will sideline him for 3 to 4 weeks.

O'Brien has been a standout performer this season, batting .400 over 6 games, including 4 starts. His absence will be felt as the Captains adjust their lineup in his time away from the field.

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The Baseball Times
April 28th, 1890

Charlie Sweeney Dominates as Brooklyn Blanks Pittsburgh 9-0



Brooklyn Hitmen pitcher Charlie Sweeney delivered a commanding performance at Hitmen Ballpark, shutting out the Pittsburgh Predators in a decisive 9-0 victory. Sweeney struck out 3 batters and issued 4 walks while allowing just 3 hits in the game.

"Pittsburgh had a few opportunities to make something happen and didn’t capitalize," said Pittsburgh manager Justin Serafine. "Not to take anything away from Brooklyn, but this is on us."

Sweeney’s performance today is a strong showing in his season so far, with a 2-2 record and a 3.71 ERA over 43.2 innings pitched. Despite a few challenges, his ability to keep Pittsburgh off the scoreboard was key to Brooklyn’s success.

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The Baseball Times
April 30th, 1890

Detroit’s Amos Rusie Injured, Out 4 Weeks with Elbow Strain



Detroit Lakers' promising young pitcher Amos Rusie faced an unfortunate setback today as he was diagnosed with an elbow strain during his team's victory over the Pittsburgh Predators. Rusie, who is in his first year as a starter, will be sidelined for approximately 4 weeks.

Despite the injury, Rusie has had a commendable start to the season, posting a 2-2 record with a 3.97 ERA. His absence will be a blow to the Lakers, who will need to rely on their other pitchers while Rusie recovers.

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The Baseball Times
May 1st, 1890

Early Season Shake-Up in Professional Baseball Association Standings



The early start to the Professional Baseball Association season has led to a noticeable shake-up in the standings for both Conferences. In the American Conference, the Columbus Bandits have retained their lead from last year, sitting atop the standings by just one game over the Philadelphia Stallions and the surprising Baltimore Barons.

In the National Conference, the Detroit Lakers are currently leading by 2 games over the St. Louis Roughnecks. The major shocker is the New York Saints, last year’s conference champions, who find themselves languishing at the bottom of the table.

The revised standings reflect an exciting start to the season and suggest that both Conferences are set for a competitive year ahead.

Bob Caruthers Named American Conference Batter of the Month



Bob Caruthers of the Columbus Bandits has been awarded the Batter of the Month for April, thanks to his outstanding performance against American Conference pitchers. The 27-year-old Caruthers hit an impressive .369 over 19 games, with 1 home run, 19 RBIs, and 13 runs scored.

"I've been around the Professional Baseball Association long enough to know you really have to work hard day in and day out to put up this kind of consistency," Caruthers said. "I put in a lot of work, even on the days I might not take the field, and it's always nice when everything comes together like it did this last month."

Caruthers’ efforts have been instrumental in the Bandits' strong start to the season.

King Kelly Earns National Conference Batter of the Month Honors



King Kelly of the St. Louis Roughnecks has been recognized as the National Conference Batter of the Month for April. The veteran catcher had a stellar month, hitting .464 with 11 RBIs and 17 runs scored. Although he did not record a home run, Kelly's consistent performance at the plate was crucial for the Roughnecks.

Kelly’s impressive batting average and contributions have played a significant role in St. Louis’ strong showing so far this season, and his recognition as Batter of the Month highlights his continued excellence in the league.

Standings

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Southern Association


New England Baseball League

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The Baseball Times
May 1st, 1890

King Kelly Injured in St. Louis Roughnecks' Win Over Louisville Captains



St. Louis Roughnecks catcher King Kelly, who was just named Batter of the Month for April, suffered a setback in the team's recent victory over the Louisville Captains. Kelly was hit by a pitch during the game, causing concern among fans and teammates about the extent of his injury.

After the game, it was announced that Kelly had sustained a fractured foot, which will keep him out for 2-3 weeks. While the injury is unfortunate, the Roughnecks are relieved it isn't more serious.

Kelly has been a standout performer this season, holding a .451 batting average with 17 runs and 12 RBIs. His absence will be felt, but the team remains hopeful for his quick return as they continue their season.

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The Baseball Times
May 2nd, 1890

John Ward Dominates in Shutout Victory Over Boston Rebels



Philadelphia Stallions' John Ward delivered a masterful performance on the mound, two-hitting the Boston Rebels in a 1-0 shutout. Ward was in complete control throughout the game, recording five strikeouts and allowing no walks.

"I had my good stuff and it went where I wanted it to go," Ward told BNN reporters following his stellar outing.

The win marked a high point for Ward in the 1890 season, where his efforts on the mound outshined his current hitting performance. So far this year, Ward is batting .225 with no home runs, 11 RBIs, 18 runs scored, and a .311 on-base percentage (OBP).

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The Baseball Times
May 4th, 1890

Ben Stephens Shuts Down Washington Americans in 4-0 Victory



St. Louis pitcher Ben Stephens delivered a standout performance, leading the Roughnecks to a 4-0 shutout against the Washington Americans. Stephens kept the Washington batters off balance all game, mixing fastballs and changeups to allow just six hits, while striking out three and walking three.

"I think every time we were looking for a fastball, he threw a changeup and every time we were looking for a changeup, he threw a fastball," said Washington manager Andrew Collins after the game.

Stephens' impressive outing brings his record for the season to 2-4 with a solid 2.74 ERA.

Daisy Davis Dominates as Cleveland Shuts Out Cincinnati 9-0



Cleveland hurler Daisy Davis was in top form today, blanking the Cincinnati Wildcats 9-0 in a commanding five-hit shutout. Davis struck out seven and issued three walks in a performance that left Cincinnati hitters guessing all day.

"He just worked us over," said Wildcats manager Tyler Horan. "He probably didn't even need a shower after the game — he barely worked up a sweat."

With the win, Davis improves to 2-2 on the season. He has recorded 14 strikeouts and 27 walks over 32.2 innings, carrying a 6.06 ERA thus far.

Elmer Roussey’s 5-Hit Day Powers Stallions Past Bandits



Philadelphia Stallions' Elmer Roussey had a perfect day at the plate, going 5-for-5 to help propel his team to a 9-5 victory over the Bandits at Bandits Ballpark. Roussey’s parade of hits included a solo home run, a double, and three singles, driving in three runs.

"Roussey was really good and we were really bad," said Bandits manager Henry Austin. "Next time he's that hot, we'll just walk him."

Roussey’s season stats now include a .260 batting average, 1 home run, 9 RBIs, and 10 runs scored in 14 games.

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The Baseball Times
May 6th, 1890

Bobby Mitchell Leads New York Saints to 1-0 Shutout Over Philadelphia Thunder



Bobby Mitchell’s dominant performance on the mound carried the New York Saints to a narrow 1-0 victory over the Philadelphia Thunder at Saints Park. Mitchell tossed a complete-game shutout, holding the Thunder to just seven hits while recording four strikeouts and issuing three walks.

The strong-armed hurler’s control and endurance helped the Saints edge out a hard-fought win, with Mitchell keeping Philadelphia scoreless despite multiple threats throughout the game.

In six starts this season, Mitchell has notched three wins and three losses, with 51 innings pitched. He has allowed 45 hits, struck out 21 batters, and boasts an impressive 2.29 ERA.

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The Baseball Times
May 9th, 1890

Will White Shuts Down New York Saints in 4-0 Victory



St. Louis Roughnecks pitcher Will White delivered an impressive performance, blanking the New York Saints 4-0 at Roughnecks Field. White kept the Saints' lineup at bay with a seven-hit shutout, adding three strikeouts and only one walk in a dominant showing.

With this victory, White improves his record to 2-2 on the season. Across seven starts, he has posted a 3.55 ERA, further solidifying his role in the Roughnecks' rotation.

Washington’s Sam Barkley Out 7 Weeks After Hand Injury



Washington Americans reserve first baseman Sam Barkley suffered a significant injury in today’s 7-4 loss to the Columbus Bandits. Barkley, who was pinch-hitting, was struck by a pitch, resulting in a fractured hand. Team officials confirmed he will be sidelined for seven weeks.

Barkley has appeared in 20 games this season, though he has yet to start. In limited action, he is hitting .188 with 3 runs and 1 RBI in 16 at-bats. Washington will have to manage without him as they move forward through the season.

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The Baseball Times
May 11th, 1890

Charlie Bennett Announces Retirement, Bids Farewell to Baseball



Veteran catcher Charlie Bennett, a cornerstone of the Philadelphia Stallions, announced today that he is hanging up his cleats and calling an end to his storied career. In an emotional meeting with reporters, a tired and reflective Bennett spoke candidly about the toll that years of professional baseball have taken on his body.

"I can't play this game the way I could before," Bennett admitted. "I can tell when it's going to rain—my big toe always hurts the day before. I spend hours after each game icing down my knees. My joints ache, and I'm about sick to death of stinking like ointment at all hours trying to bounce back for the next game. Road trips seem twice as long nowadays. I want to spend each night in my own bed."

Bennett's usually cheerful demeanor gave way to a more somber tone as he detailed the physical wear and tear that led to his decision. Known for his leadership and positive presence in the clubhouse, Bennett surprised many with his raw and honest words.

Philadelphia Stallions' manager shared his thoughts on Bennett's retirement: "This boys' game will make a man real old real quick. The daily grind, the marathon each season—it wears on your soul. Looks like Father Time caught up with Charlie. I have nothing but respect for the guy."

Bennett's career began with the Chicago Cardinals in 1878 before he was traded to the Philadelphia Stallions in 1885. Over his 1194-game career, he compiled a .233 batting average with 1060 hits, 222 doubles, 56 triples, and 48 home runs. He also scored 613 runs and drove in 492.

As the baseball world bids farewell to one of its seasoned veterans, Bennett’s legacy will live on as a player who gave his all to the game.

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The Baseball Times
May 12th, 1890

Joe Blong Dominates Cleveland Royals in 7-0 Shutout



St. Louis Sox pitcher Joe Blong delivered a stellar performance at St. Louis Grounds, completely shutting down the Cleveland Royals in a 7-0 victory. Blong held Cleveland to just four hits in a complete-game shutout, striking out four and walking only one batter.

"He stayed aggressive and his ball was really moving," Cleveland manager Jordan Jackson said after the game, acknowledging Blong's command on the mound.

Blong, who has had a challenging season so far, was in total control from start to finish. Reflecting on his performance, Blong said, "If I make good pitches, I'm going to get some outs. I was making good pitches the entire game."

With this win, Blong improves his season record to 2-5, carrying a 4.41 ERA across eight starts. The Sox hope this commanding outing marks a turning point for their hurler as they continue through the season.

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The Baseball Times
May 13th, 1890

John Ward’s 5-Hit Effort Not Enough as Stallions Fall to Barons 5-4



Philadelphia Stallions first baseman John Ward had a perfect day at the plate, going 5-for-5 against the Baltimore Barons at Barons Park. Despite Ward's impressive performance, the Stallions fell short, losing 5-4 in a tightly contested game.

"The loss takes some of the joy out of it, but I'll take it," Ward said after the game. "5-for-5 ain't bad in any league."

Ward's hitting spree included a two-run single in the 2nd inning, but Philadelphia's offense couldn't muster enough to overcome the Barons. Stallions manager Matt Huffman, while acknowledging Ward's big day, held the entire team accountable for the loss.

"John told me, 'Coach, I had 5 hits,' and I said, 'Well that's great, but it looks like we needed one more from you,'" Huffman remarked.

Ward’s hits came in the 1st, 2nd, 5th, 7th, and 9th innings, all singles, but it wasn’t enough to pull off the win. So far this season, Ward is batting .259 with no home runs.

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The Baseball Times
May 14th, 1890

Cal McVey Announces Retirement, Will Leave Baseball After This Season



Chicago Cardinals right fielder Cal McVey announced today that he will retire at the end of this season, marking the conclusion of a remarkable 19-year career. At a press conference, McVey revealed his decision to step away from the game, saying, "I've made up my mind to leave baseball. It's time to move into the second phase of my life."

McVey has been a key figure in Chicago's lineup since debuting with the Cardinals in 1871. His career numbers reflect his consistent excellence: 2,216 hits, a .327 batting average, and a .346 on-base percentage. He has also accumulated 444 doubles, 182 triples, 59 home runs, 1,024 runs scored, and 982 RBIs.

McVey's legacy includes winning the National Conference MVP award in 1884, and his long tenure with the Cardinals has made him a beloved figure in Chicago. As he prepares to say goodbye to baseball, fans and teammates will have one final season to celebrate his extraordinary contributions to the game.

Pud Galvin Shuts Out Washington, Leading Cincinnati to 3-0 Victory



Pud Galvin of the Cincinnati Wildcats delivered a masterful performance, blanking the Washington Americans 3-0. Galvin's mix of crisp curves, changeups, and well-placed fastballs kept Washington's lineup off balance throughout the game, allowing only one hit in a complete-game shutout.

"He had the changeup working," Washington manager Andrew Collins said. "You knew it was coming, and you still grounded out—and then he threw it even slower."

Galvin finished the game with two strikeouts and one walk, showing once again why keeping the ball down is critical for success in the league. "If you don't do that, they'll make you pay," Galvin remarked after the game.

Despite his strong outing, Galvin’s season record stands at 2-5, with a solid 3.32 ERA in eight starts.

Will White Dominates as St. Louis Roughnecks Shut Out Detroit, 2-0



Will White of the St. Louis Roughnecks pitched a gem against the Detroit Lakers, leading his team to a 2-0 victory at Lakers Field. White tossed a complete-game shutout, giving up just five hits while striking out four and walking three.

This win improves White’s season record to 3-2. He has struck out 18 batters over 54.2 innings and holds an impressive 2.96 ERA. White’s steady pitching has been a bright spot for the Roughnecks as they continue their strong run in the 1890 season.

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The Baseball Times
May 16th, 1890

Bill Wise Leads Louisville Captains to 1-0 Victory Over New York Saints



Bill Wise delivered a standout performance at Captains Ballpark, pitching the Louisville Captains to a narrow 1-0 shutout win over the New York Saints. Wise's control and precision were key in the victory, as he allowed just six hits and recorded two strikeouts along with two walks.

"He threw strikes and was always around the plate," said New York manager Wayne Slagle. "The ball was doing everything he wanted it to do. We hit some balls hard, but they were all right at the fielders."

Wise's strong outing adds to his season totals, which now include a 4-4 record and a 4.06 ERA in nine starts. The right-hander’s ability to keep the Saints off the scoreboard was a testament to his effectiveness on the mound.

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The Baseball Times
May 17th, 1890

Charlie Ferguson Shines in Cleveland’s 6-0 Win Over Columbus



Charlie Ferguson turned in a masterful performance for the Cleveland Royals today, leading his team to a 6-0 shutout against the Columbus Bandits. The 28-year-old right-hander allowed just seven hits, issued one walk, and recorded one strikeout in his complete-game effort.

"I hope we miss him next time," said Columbus manager Henry Austin. "Ferguson certainly pitched a strong game against us today. He was in a groove, throwing everything for strikes, throwing hard, and changing speeds."

In addition to his pitching prowess, Ferguson is also contributing at the plate this season, batting .274 with 17 RBIs and 19 runs scored over 113 at-bats. His strong showing today underscores his value to the Royals on both sides of the game.

Jersey Bakely Dominates in Louisville’s 10-0 Rout of New York



Jersey Bakely delivered a stellar performance on the mound as the Louisville Captains cruised to a 10-0 victory over the New York Saints. Bakely blanked the Saints, allowing just four hits while striking out four and walking one.

"That was a fun one," Bakely remarked after the game, clearly pleased with his dominant outing.
With this win, Bakely improves his season record to 3-5 and holds a solid 3.12 ERA. His commanding performance today highlights his ability to control the game and contribute significantly to the Captains' success.