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HITTERS BY POSITION - CATCHER
(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)
Charlie Bennett, Milwaukee Grays* (1-20-.280-0) - This young rookie was very promising for Milwaukee, and he very well could be the heir apparent to the current stars behind the plate.
John Clapp, Providence Grays* (1-25-.216-0) - He had by far the worst season of his seven-year career this year. As a result, he may have trouble finding a team that will hand him a starting job next season.
Dick Higham, Cincinnati Reds (1-29-.318-0) - In spite of Higham's long and solid career as a professional catcher, he still struggles for recognition. If Cincinnati does well in 1879, look for him to start getting the recognition he deserves.
Cal McVey, Boston Red Caps (0-41-.355-9) - He had a typically spectacular year this season, although the year was ultimately disappointing due to the Team of Stars' failure to knock off the Chicagos. Next year will be his ninth in Boston.
"Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings (0-43-.302-1) - This talented catcher has never been as celebrated as McVey, but they are nearly equals in ability. O'Rourke won his second pennant with Chicago, and the third overall of his career this season.
Deacon White, Indianapolis Blues* (0-21-.319-1) - Despite the fact that White is well-liked and an extremely good player, Indy is the seventh professional team he has played for, and whoever gets him next year will be his eighth. As a result, he's had some trouble making a name for himself.
And the award for best catcher of 1877 goes to... CAL McVEY OF THE BOSTON RED CAPS. Once again, there were many good-hitting catchers, but McVey's batting title-winning performance with Boston stood out.
Catcher
1871 - Deacon White, Cleveland Forest Citys (0-28-.389-1)
1872 - Cal McVey, Boston Red Stockings (3-52-.405-18)
1873 - John Clapp, Baltimore Canaries (0-45-.345-4)
1874 - Jim O'Rourke, New York Mutuals (2-68-.365-3)
1875 - Cal McVey, Boston Red Stockings (1-79-.329-14)
1876 - Jim O'Rourke, New York Mutuals (1-32-.374-3)
1877 - Cal McVey, Boston Red Caps (3-46-.375-9)
1878 - Cal McVey, Boston Red Caps (0-41-.355-9)
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A New League Begins - an exploration of 19th century base ball.
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