Base Ball Dispersal Draft Preview
December 30, 1860
On January 2nd- January 5th of the New Year base ball’s first professional league’s clubs will select players in a dispersal draft at the Cooper Institute. Over 500 players will populate the 8 clubs. The league has held multiple camps to determine who the best of the best are, and who is ready to be a professional player. Let’s have a look at 10 players expected to highlight the event.
Jim Creighton, P: At 19, he most talented pitcher available in the draft. Fully expected to be the first pitcher selected if not the first player selected. He comes off of a suspension for his part in the “pay to play” controversy. Could be rusty come time for the first games. However the risk is worth the reward.
George Flanly, OF: Only 16, the other half of the “pay to play” fiasco, this young man is a star in waiting. He is by far the best non-pitcher available, but like Creighton may suffer from rust by the time they hit the field. His bat and glove are equally dangerous
Michael Waddell, OF: This 27 year old veteran of amateur play is easily one of the top strikers in the draft pool. He brings a strong arm and good range at the corner out field positions.
Howard Wright, IF: Another veteran of amateur play, the 30 year old brings a strong bat to any club. Defensively, he gives a club options with the ability to play any in field position, though overall he is known for his defense.
Michael Vincent, OF: This 31 year old out fielder is not known for his glove. However, his ability with a bat rivals George Flanly. This could be a team leader and a player to build around
Kelly Pearce, 1B: Another veteran checking in at 32 years old. He is very limited defensively, but brings a bat with few equals.
Joe Leggett, C: The third former Excelsior to grace our list. He can hit the ball from a position where defense is prized. Defensively he was masterful at handling Creighton’s unique pitching style, and is a force. At 25 years old there’s still a lot of mileage in this player
George Hunt, SS: This is the most experienced player at the shortstop position. He checks in at 33 years old, but excels defensively. He can strike the ball well, and brings a strong work ethic to any club.
Luke Phillips, 2B: Not known for his glove, but can play any in field spot. He brings a special bat and checks in at only 23 years old.
Matty O’Brien, SP: With such a special player in Jim Creighton headlining the position of pitcher, it’s easy to chalk up O’Brien as the best of the rest. However, this 28 year old veteran can hold is own, and should be the second pitcher selected.
The order of the draft was selected randomly, and will take on a serpentine structure throughout. The order is as follows:
- Hoboken Knickerbockers
- Lowell Industrials
- New York United
- Washington Nationals
- Newark Leathernecks
- Philadelphia Athletics
- Brooklyn Allied
- Hartford Intrepids