1876: A New League Begins

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

September 4, 1881 - Sunday Base Ball Report

Cleveland Blues 42-26
Boston Red Caps 40-27
Detroit Wolverines 37-31
Troy Trojans 36-31
Buffalo Bisons 30-37
Chicago White Stockings 30-38
Providence Grays 29-39
Worcester Ruby Legs 25-40

A tough week for Cleveland, as they lost three of five, but Boston did even worse, going 1-3. Cleveland visits Detroit for three games this week, and the Wolverines might be able to put themselves back into the pennant race if they can sweep.

Meanwhile, Levi Meyerle of Chicago sits at 981 hits with 16 games to go, so it's going to be a race to 1,000 for him.

The current league leaders:

Batting Average - .370, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
On-Base Percentage - .417, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Slugging Percentage - .498, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
OPS - .915, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Hits - 109, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Doubles - 25, "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings
Triples - 9, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Home Runs - 7, Paul Hines, Chicago White Stockings
Extra Base Hits - 28, Jack Glasscock, Cleveland and "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago
Total Bases - 147, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Runs Batted In - 53, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Runs Scored - 67, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Stolen Bases - 15, Hugh Nicol, Chicago White Stockings
Walks - 25, 4 players tied
Strikeouts - 44, John Morrill, Boston Red Caps
RC/27 - 8.42, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
ISO - .158, Paul Hines, Chicago White Stockings
VORP (Batting) - 32.9, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps

Earned Run Average - 1.80, Foghorn Bradley, Boston Red Caps
Wins - 28, George Bradley, Cleveland and Pud Galvin, Troy
Losses - 25, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Saves - 2, 3 players tied
Innings Pitched - 416 2/3, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Shutouts - 3, Pud Galvin, Troy Trojans
Walks - 95, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Strikeouts - 244, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
H/9IP - 7.69, George Bradley, Cleveland Blues
HR/9IP - 0.00, Jack Lynch, Buffalo Bisons
BB/9IP - 0.84, Foghorn Bradley, Boston Red Caps
K/9IP - 5.27, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
K/BB Ratio - 4.79, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Opp. Avg. - .218, Harry Wheeler, Providence Grays
WHIP - 1.02, Foghorn Bradley, Boston Red Caps
VORP (Pitching) - 59.9, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

September 11, 1881 - Sunday Base Ball Report

Cleveland Blues 44-28
Boston Red Caps 41-30
Troy Trojans 39-33
Detroit Wolverines 38-34
Chicago White Stockings 34-38
Buffalo Bisons 31-40
Providence Grays 31-41
Worcester Ruby Legs 28-42

The race is still competitive between Cleveland and Boston, though neither team has really impressed recently. The Blues have gone 4-5 over their last nine games, while Boston has dropped six of eight. At least the Red Caps have an excuse; their offense has fallen apart with Ross Barnes injured.

One interesting issue that will probably not be decided until the end of the season: who will win this year's Cartwright Award as the league's best pitcher? There are no standout candidates and many contenders. A rundown:

George Bradley, Cleveland (29-15, 2.39) - A great won-loss record for a very good team, but Bradley walks more hitters than he strikes out and many say he merely benefits from the great defense behind him.

Tommy Bond, Detroit (17-13, 1.85) - Leads the league in ERA, but has by far the fewest innings pitched of any major contender. In fact, his own team often does not use him as the #1 pitcher.

Larry Corcoran, Chicago (28-21, 2.80) - Leads the league in both strikeouts and walks, and is keeping the club respectable almost all by himself. However, his numbers have gone down significantly since last season, and his high ERA and slow start won't help.

Curry Foley, Boston (23-20, 2.41) - Has some decent numbers, but the won-loss record hurts. He would be helped immensely if Boston can win the pennant. His backup Foghorn Bradley (14-4, 1.88) may actually be having a better year.

Pud Galvin, Troy (30-18, 2.65) - Leads the league in wins, so he should be a major candidate. A pretty good strikeout pitcher, though his strikeout and walk numbers are inferior to Mitchell of Worcester. A lot of his wins may be because he has a good offense backing him up.

Bobby Mitchell, Worcester (18-26, 2.78) - Has the league's best strikeout-walk ratio, and has kept his club in games where they have no business being competitive. However, he leads the league in losses, so it seems unlikely that he'll win the award.

At the moment, the smart money is on Galvin, but things could change over the next few weeks.

The current league leaders:

Batting Average - .370, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
On-Base Percentage - .417, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Slugging Percentage - .498, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
OPS - .915, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Hits - 116, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Doubles - 25, "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings
Triples - 9, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Home Runs - 7, Paul Hines, Chicago White Stockings
Extra Base Hits - 29, Jack Glasscock, Cleveland and "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago
Total Bases - 154, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Runs Batted In - 59, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Runs Scored - 69, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Stolen Bases - 16, Hugh Nicol, Chicago White Stockings
Walks - 27, Roger Connor, Troy and George Gore, Chicago
Strikeouts - 46, John Morrill, Boston Red Caps
RC/27 - 8.42, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
ISO - .157, Paul Hines, Chicago White Stockings
VORP (Batting) - 33.3, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps

Earned Run Average - 1.85, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines
Wins - 30, Pud Galvin, Troy Trojans
Losses - 26, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Saves - 2, 3 players tied
Innings Pitched - 443 2/3, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Shutouts - 3, Pud Galvin, Troy Trojans
Walks - 100, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Strikeouts - 255, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
H/9IP - 7.66, George Bradley, Cleveland Blues
HR/9IP - 0.00, Jack Lynch, Buffalo Bisons
BB/9IP - 0.86, Foghorn Bradley, Boston Red Caps
K/9IP - 5.17, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
K/BB Ratio - 4.44, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Opp. Avg. - .222, George Bradley, Cleveland Blues
WHIP - 1.05, Foghorn Bradley, Boston Red Caps
VORP (Pitching) - 59.9, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

September 18, 1881 - Sunday Base Ball Report

Cleveland Blues 46-30
Boston Red Caps 44-31
Troy Trojans 41-34
Detroit Wolverines 40-36
Chicago White Stockings 34-42
Providence Grays 34-42
Buffalo Bisons 33-41
Worcester Ruby Legs 29-45

It's going to be a fight to the finish this year. Boston's campaign received a shot in the arm this week when it was announced that Ross Barnes is expected to be back for the Cleveland series to close out the season. If the team can just stay within striking distance, they might just have a shot at their third consecutive title.

This week, Boston plays Detroit twice and Buffalo twice - all at home. Meanwhile, Cleveland will travel to Worcester for two games and Providence for two. This schedule would seem to favor Cleveland, but lately the hottest of these four teams has actually been Providence.

In the Levi Meyerle watch, he now sits at 992 hits with eight games to play. One hit per game will put him at 1,000 on the last day of the season.

The current league leaders:

Batting Average - .370, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
On-Base Percentage - .417, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Slugging Percentage - .498, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
OPS - .915, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Hits - 120, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Doubles - 27, "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings
Triples - 9, Cap Anson, Boston and Roger Connor, Troy
Home Runs - 8, Paul Hines, Chicago White Stockings
Extra Base Hits - 31, "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings
Total Bases - 159, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Runs Batted In - 63, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Runs Scored - 73, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Stolen Bases - 16, Hugh Nicol, Chicago White Stockings
Walks - 29, "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings
Strikeouts - 49, John Morrill, Boston Red Caps
RC/27 - 8.42, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
ISO - .162, Harry Stovey, Worcester Ruby Legs
VORP (Batting) - 35.3, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps

Earned Run Average - 1.90, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines
Wins - 32, Pud Galvin, Troy Trojans
Losses - 27, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Saves - 2, 4 players tied
Innings Pitched - 459 2/3, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Shutouts - 3, Pud Galvin, Troy Trojans
Walks - 101, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Strikeouts - 263, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
H/9IP - 7.88, George Bradley, Cleveland Blues
HR/9IP - 0.00, Jack Lynch, Buffalo Bisons
BB/9IP - 0.93, Foghorn Bradley, Boston Red Caps
K/9IP - 5.15, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
K/BB Ratio - 4.58, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Opp. Avg. - .222, Harry Wheeler, Providence Grays
WHIP - 1.06, Foghorn Bradley, Boston Red Caps
VORP (Pitching) - 61.9, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

September 25, 1881 - Sunday Base Ball Report

Cleveland Blues 50-30
Boston Red Caps 46-33
Troy Trojans 44-35
Detroit Wolverines 40-40
Buffalo Bisons 36-43
Chicago White Stockings 35-44
Providence Grays 35-45
Worcester Ruby Legs 31-47

And just like that, the race was practically over. Cleveland tore through Worcester and Providence this week, with four wins overalls and two shutouts pitching performances by ace George Bradley. Meanwhile, Boston kept pace for the first two games by beating the Detroit Wolverines, but then lost two games to Buffalo.

This pretty much takes care of the race. Boston needs to beat Buffalo on Tuesday, sweep Cleveland in a three-game series after that, AND hope Cleveland loses on Tuesday to Providence. Even the return of Ross Barnes probably won't be enough to make that happen.

Meanwhile, in Chicago Levi Meyerle needs six hits in the team's final five games to become the fourth member of the 1,000 hit club.

The current league leaders:

Batting Average - .370, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
On-Base Percentage - .417, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Slugging Percentage - .498, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
OPS - .915, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Hits - 122, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Doubles - 29, "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings
Triples - 10, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Home Runs - 8, Paul Hines, Chicago White Stockings
Extra Base Hits - 33, "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings
Total Bases - 163, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Runs Batted In - 64, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Runs Scored - 77, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Stolen Bases - 16, Hugh Nicol, Chicago White Stockings
Walks - 30, 3 players tied
Strikeouts - 52, Charlie Bennett, Cleveland Blues
RC/27 - 8.42, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
ISO - .159, Paul Hines, Chicago White Stockings
VORP (Batting) - 34.5, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps

Earned Run Average - 1.91, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines
Wins - 35, Pud Galvin, Troy Trojans
Losses - 28, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Saves - 2, 4 players tied
Innings Pitched - 476 2/3, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Shutouts - 4, George Bradley, Cleveland Blues
Walks - 105, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Strikeouts - 275, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
H/9IP - 7.60, George Bradley, Cleveland Blues
HR/9IP - 0.03, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines
BB/9IP - 0.94, Foghorn Bradley, Boston Red Caps
K/9IP - 5.19, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
K/BB Ratio - 4.26, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Opp. Avg. - .221, George Bradley, Cleveland Blues
WHIP - 1.04, George Bradley, Cleveland Blues
VORP (Pitching) - 68.9, Pud Galvin, Troy Trojans

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

Tuesday, September 27, 1881

Providence 7, Cleveland 6 - Four hits by Providence's John Glenn helped the Grays survive a furious comeback attempt by the Blues, who were hoping to clinch the pennant with this game. Cleveland ultimately was able to get the tying run to third base and the winning run to second with two out in the ninth inning and star hitter Abner Dalrymple at the plate, but Dalrymple simply popped out to third baseman Jerry Denny.

Boston 6, Buffalo 4 - The Red Caps, trying to keep their slim pennant hopes alive, got three hits from outfielder Frank Heifer and a home run from shortstop Sadie Houck to defeat the Bisons.

With these results, the final series between Cleveland and Boston is rendered meaningful. If Boston can sweep the three games, they will win the 1881 pennant. If Cleveland wins any of them, they will have their first championship.

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

Wednesday, September 28, 1881

Boston 4, Cleveland 2 - A key double by Ross Barnes sparked a three-run first inning for the Red Caps, who then held on to their narrow lead for the rest of the game. Foghorn Bradley had an excellent pitching performance, surrendering only four hits to the Blues. There are now two games left that Boston needs to win.

In addition, Levi Meyerle got one hit for Chicago today, leaving him at 997 with two games left in the season.

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

Thursday, September 29, 1881

Cleveland 11, Boston 8 (10 innings) - It took a battle, but Cleveland finally clinched their first-ever National League pennant today, breaking Boston's two-year stranglehold on the championship. A pinch-hit triple by reserve infielder Bill Phillips was the decisive play in a game that saw Boston rally from a five-run deficit to tie the game in the seventh inning.

Friday, September 30, 1881

With two hits on the final day of the season, Chicago's Levi Meyerle hit the 1,000 hit mark exactly, to become the fourth player ever to reach this lofty milestone.

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

FINAL 1881 STANDINGS AND LEADERS

Cleveland Blues 51-33
Boston Red Caps 49-34
Troy Trojans 47-37
Detroit Wolverines 41-43
Chicago White Stockings 39-45
Providence Grays 38-46
Buffalo Bisons 37-46
Worcester Ruby Legs 32-50

In a year which saw a great deal of parity in the National League, the Cleveland Blues used defense and timely hitting to overcome the powerful attack of the Boston Red Caps and the outstanding pitching of Troy's Pud Galvin. Next season should see a similar battle, as each of these three teams will be mostly intact.

The big news for 1882 is that a new league, the American Association, will begin play with teams in six cities - Baltimore, MD; Cincinnati, OH; Louisville, KY; Philadelphia, PA; Pittsburgh, PA; and St. Louis, MO. The league will have a distinctly western flavor, and has been referred to disparagingly by the National League as the "Beer and Whiskey League," because they will sell alcohol at the park and even play games on Sundays where permitted by law. It will be interesting to see how Hulbert's National League will deal with this new competition.

The final league leaders:

Batting Average - .368, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
On-Base Percentage - .415, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Slugging Percentage - .492, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
OPS - .907, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Hits - 128, Cap Anson, Boston and Cal McVey, Boston
Doubles - 32, "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings (new record)
Triples - 10, Cap Anson, Boston and Harry Stovey, Worcester
Home Runs - 8, Paul Hines, Chicago White Stockings (new record)
Extra Base Hits - 36, "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings
Total Bases - 170, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Runs Batted In - 64, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Runs Scored - 80, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Stolen Bases - 17, Hugh Nicol, Chicago White Stockings
Walks - 33, Roger Connor, Troy and "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago
Strikeouts - 55, John Morrill, Boston Red Caps
RC/27 - 8.10, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
ISO - .161, Harry Stovey, Worcester Ruby Legs
VORP (Batting) - 35.7, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps

Earned Run Average - 1.91, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines
Wins - 37, Pud Galvin, Troy Trojans
Losses - 29, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Saves - 2, 4 players tied
Innings Pitched - 502 2/3, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Shutouts - 4, George Bradley, Cleveland Blues
Walks - 109, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings (new record)
Strikeouts - 285, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
H/9IP - 7.77, George Bradley, Cleveland Blues
HR/9IP - 0.03, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines
BB/9IP - 0.99, Foghorn Bradley, Boston Red Caps
K/9IP - 5.09, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
K/BB Ratio - 4.25, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Opp. Avg. - .223, Harry Wheeler, Providence Grays
WHIP - 1.05, Foghorn Bradley, Boston Red Caps
VORP (Pitching) - 72.7, Pud Galvin, Troy Trojans

League Champions, History

National Association

1871 - Boston Red Stockings
1872 - Boston Red Stockings
1873 - Philadelphia Athletics
1874 - New York Mutuals
1875 - Philadelphia Athletics

National League

1876 - Chicago White Stockings
1877 - Chicago White Stockings
1878 - Chicago White Stockings
1879 - Boston Red Caps
1880 - Boston Red Caps
1881 - Cleveland Blues

Individual Awards coming soon....

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - CATCHER

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

Charlie Bennett, Cleveland Blues (0-28-.220-0) - After being injured for most of 1880, Bennett returned but didn't really do much. Frankly, his backup Doc Kennedy probably could have manned the position just as effectively.

John Clapp, Troy Trojans* (0-37-.241-3) - Clapp improved over his dreadful 1880 season, but he still has proven to be somewhat of a disappointment in his two years in Troy. This season, he'll see what he can do on the free agent market; early rumors suggest he might jump to the new Beer and Whiskey League.

Barney Gilligan, Detroit Wolverines (0-22-.200-0) - He wasn't as terrible as last year, when he almost single-handedly ruined Cincinnati's offense, but he certainly wasn't good. One has to wonder how long team are going to continue to give him a starting job.

Emil Gross, Providence Grays (0-29-.238-0) - He's been playing for Providence for three years, and has gotten progressively less effective with each season. He's gone from being a highly touted young player to a guy who they hope doesn't do any damage.

Dick Higham, Worcester Ruby Legs (0-31-.281-1) - Higham is one of the few solid hitters in Worcester, and he will be expected to continue as one of the bright spots for this downtrodden franchise.

Cal McVey, Boston Red Caps (1-41-.334-13) - He came back from an off-season to have an outstanding year for the near-miss Red Caps. He's currently the all-time leader in hits, and should command a tidy sum when he renegotiates his contract at the end of next season.

"Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings (2-54-.310-1) - This veteran hitter had an excellent 1881, setting the all-time record for most doubles in a season with 32. Look for him to continue as one of base ball's prime players.

Frank Selman, Buffalo Bisons (1-36-.243-2) - Selman, a long-time veteran who is amazingly still only 28 years old, has settled in as a steady but not great catcher for Buffalo.

And the award for best catcher of 1880 goes to... CAL McVEY OF THE BOSTON RED CAPS. After a year out of the top spot, McVey returned to form, winning this award for the sixth time.

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)
1879 - Cal McVey, Boston Red Caps (0-62-.333-11)
1880 - Jim O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings (1-51-.298-5)
1881 - Cal McVey, Boston Red Caps (1-41-.334-13)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - FIRST BASE

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans (1-35-.326-12) - Brouthers continues to be one of the league's best young players. Is expected to win his third award at the position - in fact, he's won it every year he's been in the league so far.

Tom Burns, Chicago White Stockings (2-36-.257-1) - This versatile infielder gives the Chicago club some jack-of-all-trades potential, even though he'll probably never be a star.

Ed Cogswell, Providence Grays (0-15-.250-2) - A solid, steady player, even though this club continues to try different combinations, some of which leave him on the bench.

Clipper Flynn, Worcester Ruby Legs (0-41-.258-0) - He's certainly no star, but he is a steady, reliable veteran. Since Worcester really needs to build from the ground up, he might be better as a role player on a contending team.

Jim Foran, Cleveland Blues (0-37-.263-5) - Foran is not the hitter he once was, but he's still a solid starter, especially for a team like Cleveland that doesn't give up many runs.

John Morrill, Boston Red Caps (2-25-.219-3) - After two consecutive terrible years, he's gone from "promising young player" to "most likely to be demoted." If Boston can replace him this offseason, they will.

Martin Powell, Detroit Wolverines (2-43-.273-0) - This rookie looks like he's got the potential to be a very solid hitter. Look for him to register in this year's Rookie of the Year voting.

Ecky Stearns, Buffalo Bisons (1-23-.219-4) - The 19-year-old Stearns made some progress this year, but ended up losing his starting job anyway to Ed Swartwood (.311), another talented young player. Swartwood's future is probably in the outfield, so we could be seeing Stearns back in a starting role next season.

And the best-hitting first baseman for 1881 is... DAN BROUTHERS OF THE TROY TROJANS. In his third season as a professional, Brouthers wins this award for the third time. Impressive.

First Base

1871 - Clipper Flynn, Troy Haymakers (0-20-.361-1)
1872 - Joe Start, New York Mutuals (1-51-.330-3)
1873 - Jim Foran, Philadelphia Whites (0-35-.400-7)
1874 - Cap Anson, Brooklyn Atlantics (0-44-.400-9)
1875 - Cap Anson, Brooklyn Atlantics (3-41-.417-14)
1876 - Cap Anson, Hartford Dark Blues (5-48-.383-6)
1877 - Cap Anson, Hartford Dark Blues (0-26-.375-8)
1878 - Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps (1-35-.343-8)
1879 - Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans (2-49-.320-13)
1880 - Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans (0-47-.309-13)
1881 - Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans (1-35-.326-12)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - SECOND BASE

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

Bob "Magnet" Addy, Detroit Wolverines (0-18-.228-3) - This good-field, no-hit infielder will be 37 at the start of next season, so Detroit is probably going to start looking for a replacement for him.

Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps (1-49-.368-9) - He was on pace to easily win the MVH Award before going down for a month with an injury. He's still expected to contend for the award, and since Boston narrowly missed its third straight pennant, it seems highly likely they'd have gotten it if he had been healthy.

Fred "Sure Shot" Dunlap, Cleveland Blues (2-36-.294-0) - This slick fielder really came into his own in his second season, and was a big part of Cleveland's pennant drive.

Paul Hines, Chicago White Stockings* (8-46-.253-1) - The new home run champion is a ten-year veteran despite the fact that he's only 26 years old. Teams looking to rebuild will probably try to sign him this offseason.

Andy Leonard, Providence Grays (0-41-.240-6) - He had an adequate but not very good season for Providence, which is basically par for the course for the entire franchise.

Lip Pike, Buffalo Bisons* (2-43-.315-3) - At 36 years old, this veteran seems to still have something left. As a result, he should be a highly coveted free agent this year.

Art Whitney, Worcester Ruby Legs (0-29-.239-0) - This young rookie is an adequate fielder, but seems to have a long way to go before he's ready to be an effective hitter.

Jimmy Wood, Troy Trojans (0-14-.215-4) - This over-the-hill player got replaced by Buck Ewing (.286) partway through the year, and one would assume this arrangement will end up being permanent.

And the best second baseman of 1881 is... ROSS BARNES OF THE BOSTON RED CAPS. And Barnes gets his tenth award - the first player to achieve that honor.

Second Base

1871 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Stockings (1-31-.336-12)
1872 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Stockings (1-52-.429-12)
1873 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Stockings (1-49-.360-8)
1874 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Stockings (0-45-.331-11)
1875 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Stockings (1-71-.347-13)
1876 - Lip Pike, New York Mutuals (2-38-.314-6)
1877 - Lip Pike, Hartford Dark Blues (0-39-.323-10)
1878 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps (1-46-.338-7)
1879 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps (1-73-.354-3)
1880 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps (2-64-.342-9)
1881 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps (1-49-.368-9)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - SHORTSTOP

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

Tom Barlow, Troy Trojans (1-16-.261-1) - He did an adequate job for Troy, but as they had trouble deciding where to play Buck Ewing (.286), Barlow got only about half the playing time at short. Look for Barlow to be at short full-time next year, and Ewing to start at second base or the outfield.

John Bass, Chicago White Stockings (3-25-.230-0) - He had a huge slump this year, and is one of the highest-paid players in the league. Increasingly, he is unpopular in Chicago due to his lack of production. Has one more year remaining on his contract.

Tom Carey, Providence Grays (0-30-.257-1) - He improved significantly over last year's .227 debacle. While he's no disaster and has started for winning teams in the past, he doesn't appear to be a long-term answer in Providence.

Jack Glasscock, Cleveland Blues (0-51-.300-0) - This young star was one of the keys to Cleveland's first pennant. He is excellent both as a hitter and a fielder, and at 24 there's still room for him to improve.

Sadie Houck, Boston Red Caps (2-27-.267-1) - He's developed into a steady player at short. Although he'll probably never be a star, he's a good fielder and thus a perfectly respectable starter.

Arthur Irwin, Worcester Ruby Legs (0-32-.250-0) - An adequate hitter and a very good fielder. He is reportedly very unhappy with the continued losing in Worcester.

Mike Moynahan, Buffalo Bisons (1-40-.281-0) - This second-year player is still learning the position at shortstop, although he made some solid strides this year. A good hitter, so as long as his fielding remains adequate he's a solid player.

Pop Smith, Detroit Wolverines (0-30-.266-0) - This rookie actually did significantly better than expected, which allowed Detroit to move King Kelly to the outfield in midseason. A far better defensive infielder than Kelly.

And the award for best shortstop of 1881 goes to... JACK GLASSCOCK OF THE CLEVELAND BLUES. Glasscock is a promising young player with an excellent team who could be highly celebrated for years to come.

Shortstop

1871 - Dickie Flowers, Troy Haymakers (4-38-.374-10)
1872 - Dickie Flowers, Troy Haymakers (0-29-.407-4)
1873 - Tom Barlow, Brooklyn Atlantics (1-40-.341-3)
1874 - Tom Barlow, Brooklyn Atlantics (2-59-.316-3)
1875 - John Peters, Chicago White Stockings (1-27-.274-2)
1876 - Tom Barlow, Chicago White Stockings (1-30-.381-5)
1877 - Ross Barnes, Louisville Grays (1-37-.390-8)
1878 - Tom Barlow, Chicago White Stockings (0-24-.311-1)
1879 - Tom Barlow, Troy Trojans (1-47-.294-11)
1880 - King Kelly, Cincinnati Reds (1-36-.324-9)
1881 - Jack Glasscock, Cleveland Blues (0-51-.300-0)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - THIRD BASE

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps (2-64-.356-11) - He is without question one of the best players in base ball today. He had another MVH-quality season in 1881, and is signed with Boston for two more seasons.

Steve Bellan, Detroit Wolverines (0-29-.250-3) - He continues to be a solid but unspectacular hitter, and a very good fielder. He'll never be a star, but is an acceptable starter.

Hick Carpenter, Worcester Ruby Legs (1-17-.211-0) - They've tried him as a starter for nearly two seasons now, but he just doesn't seem to have the skills for it.

Roger Connor, Troy Trojans (1-45-.269-0) - Connor had a pretty significant sophomore slump in 1881, and Troy is hoping he'll find his hitting stroke again in the offseason.

Jerry Denny, Providence Grays (2-31-.248-0) - This 22-year-old rookie showed some decent potential in Providence, and could be a solid third baseman of the future for the team.

Jack Gleason, Cleveland Blues (1-16-.170-0) - When Cleveland's veteran third baseman Fred Waterman went down with a season-ending injury, they had to go with the best guy available, who was Gleason. Don't expect to see him as a starter again.

Arlie Latham, Buffalo Bisons (0-19-.247-8) - In his second year of full-time play, this 21-year-old finally seems like he could a pretty good player. Spent much of the latter part of the season on the disabled list, so they are hoping he rallies for 1882.

Levi Meyerle, Chicago White Stockings (0-43-.302-1) - Base ball's newest 1,000-hit man still seems to have some skills remaining at the advanced age of 36.

And the award for best-hitting third baseman of 1881 goes to... CAP ANSON OF THE BOSTON RED CAPS. This is Anson's ninth overall award (including five as a first baseman), and his third consecutive as the best third baseman.

Third Base

1871 - Levi Meyerle, Philadelphia Athletics (0-25-.400-3)
1872 - Cap Anson, Brooklyn Atlantics (0-37-.434-11)
1873 - Fred Waterman, Brooklyn Atlantics (2-50-.323-10)
1874 - Fred Waterman, Brooklyn Atlantics (0-47-.366-7)
1875 - Fred Waterman, Brooklyn Atlantics (3-44-.330-7)
1876 - Levi Meyerle, Chicago White Stockings (2-53-.394-7)
1877 - Fred Waterman, Hartford Dark Blues (0-28-.325-11)
1878 - Levi Meyerle, Chicago White Stockings (1-31-.323-5)
1879 - Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps (3-52-.389-14)
1880 - Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps (1-45-.348-9)
1881 - Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps (2-64-.356-11)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - LEFT FIELD

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

Abner Dalrymple, Cleveland Blues (4-47-.296-0) - After having MVH-type numbers in 1880, he hit a bit of a slump this year. Still one of the best young hitters in base ball, and was one of the key figures in Cleveland's surprising pennant win.

Charlie Eden, Chicago White Stockings (0-33-.247-0) - He's not terrible as a starter, although "barely adequate" is probably accurate.

Dude Esterbrook, Buffalo Bisons (1-36-.234-2) - Buffalo isn't exactly sure what position he'll ultimately play, as he's a bad fielder no matter where you put him. However, he seems to be a somewhat promising young hitter.

Frank Heifer, Boston Red Caps (0-29-.222-0) - After several seasons as a backup for Boston, this 27-year-old got his first chance at a starting role in 1881, but didn't do much with it. Look for him to return to the understudy job soon.

Charley Jones, Providence Grays (2-41-.251-1) - He's one of the few Providence players who isn't laughably bad, so that's something. Still, he's never really lived up to the potential he seemed to have coming out of Keokuk, Iowa in 1875.

Steve King, Detroit Wolverines (0-21-.224-0) - This 39-year-old looked ready for retirement, but Detroit needed an outfielder and asked him to fill the role. He didn't hurt himself or the team too much, but he really looks done. Supposedly he will return to play next year at age 40.

Al Thake, Troy Trojans* (0-31-.220-1) - After two disastrously bad seasons for Troy, Thake will hit the free agent market this year. The new league may offer him the best hope for rejuvenating his career.

George Wood, Worcester Ruby Legs (0-34-.251-0) - In his second season, this 22-year-old improved enough to give the club hope that he will be a first-rate player in the future.

And the award for best left fielder of 1881 goes to... ABNER DALRYMPLE OF THE CLEVELAND BLUES. Dalrymple has played in the big leagues for four years, and won this award every time. There just aren't any other left fielders even close to his level at this point.

Left Field

1871 - George Bechtel, Philadelphia Athletics (1-22-.333-6)
1872 - George Bechtel, Philadelphia Athletics (1-33-.333-9)
1873 - Al Thake, Brooklyn Atlantics (1-49-.344-5)
1874 - Steve King, New York Mutuals (1-71-.359-2)
1875 - Andy Leonard, Philadelphia Athletics (0-56-.309-13)
1876 - Count Gedney, Hartford Dark Blues (2-45-.342-4)
1877 - George Bechtel, Cincinnati Reds (0-34-.298-6)
1878 - Abner Dalrymple, Milwaukee Grays (0-23-.303-1)
1879 - Abner Dalrymple, Cleveland Blues (1-31-.332-0)
1880 - Abner Dalrymple, Cleveland Blues (1-51-.353-0)
1881 - Abner Dalrymple, Cleveland Blues (4-47-.296-0)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - CENTER FIELD

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

Buttercup Dickerson, Worcester Ruby Legs (4-46-.262-0) - He's never recaptured the magic that got him a .365 average as an 18-year-old rookie in 1878, but he is still a solid hitter. Would be a much better fielder as a corner outfielder.

"Hartford Jack" Farrell, Troy Trojans (2-45-.263-0) - Hartford Jack continues to be a solid hitter for the Trojans.

George Gore, Chicago White Stockings (0-33-.282-0) - For the second consecutive year, his numbers dropped slightly. He is still only 24 years old, so there is hope he'll turn out to be a superstar, though. An outstanding fielder.

Ned Hanlon, Cleveland Blues (0-41-.279-0) - Young Hanlon had a good season and was one of the more dependable hitters in Cleveland's pennant-winning attack.

Pete Hotaling, Detroit Wolverines (1-36-.226-1) - Hotaling had an absolutely terrible season with Detroit this year, and seems not to have adjusted well to his move from Cincinnati. At age 24, there's still plenty of time for him to improve and show that this season was an anomaly.

Frank McCarton, Providence Grays (1-32-.292-0) - Everyone expected this talented 26-year-old to leave Providence this offseason, but after being given the center field job for most of the season and seeing the team's fortunes rise slightly, he unexpectedly signed a three-year extension.

John O'Rourke, Boston Red Caps (0-35-.221-0) - After two outstanding seasons, he suddenly was terrible for Boston. They need to hope this is a one-year fluke, because he has become an integral part of the offense.

Hardy Richardson, Buffalo Bisons (0-39-.295-0) - He finally proved himself worthy of the patience Buffalo has shown with him, and had an outstanding season for the Bisons.

And the award for best center fielder of 1881 goes to... HARDY RICHARDSON OF THE BUFFALO BISONS. There were several viable candidates for this award, but Richardson's game is the most balanced. (George Gore might have won had he not missed about 25 games due to injury.)

Center Field

1871 - Tom York, Troy Haymakers (1-19-.369-0)
1872 - Dave Eggler, New York Mutuals (1-66-.372-20)
1873 - Count Sensenderfer, Philadelphia Athletics-Brooklyn Atlantics (3-38-.354-2)
1874 - George Hall, Philadelphia Athletics (2-49-.336-4)
1875 - Frank McCarton, New York Mutuals (1-48-.354-0)
1876 - Frank McCarton, New York Mutuals (1-38-.335-0)
1877 - Frank McCarton, St. Louis Brown Stockings (0-36-.371-0)
1878 - Paul Hines, Chicago White Stockings (0-40-.250-2)
1879 - John O'Rourke, Boston Red Caps (5-69-.298-1)
1880 - John O'Rourke, Boston Red Caps (3-52-.313-0)
1881 - Hardy Richardson, Buffalo Bisons (0-39-.295-0)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - RIGHT FIELD

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

George Bechtel, Cleveland Blues (1-26-.248-2) - He's still a solid outfielder, though he's no longer one of the better ones in the league.

Mike Dorgan, Boston Red Caps (1-50-.267-1) - His first season as Boston's full-time right fielder was a solid one.

John Glenn, Providence Grays* (1-26-.227-1) - Since Providence wasn't going to resign Glenn, he was gradually replaced by 22-year-old rookie Joe Sommer (.236).

Tom Mansell, Troy Trojans (0-23-.249-0) - He's an adequate stopgap in right field, but that's about it.

Hugh Nicol, Chicago White Stockings (0-28-.227-17) - This rookie is a speedster and a very good fielder in right. If he can get a little more consistent at the plate he could be very good.

Orator Shaffer, Detroit Wolverines (0-21-.216-0) - Several years on the bench in Boston appear to have done his game no good.

Harry Stovey, Worcester Ruby Legs (4-39-.281-10) - He moved over from center field, and looks like a budding star for the Ruby Legs.

Deacon White, Buffalo Bisons* (3-49-.306-0) - He picked the right time to have a career resurgence, as he will be a free agent in this offseason. Despite the fact that he will be 34 on opening day, he is expected to spark a minor bidding war.

And the award for best right fielder of 1881 goes to... DEACON WHITE OF THE BUFFALO BISONS. This was a toss-up between White and Harry Stovey of Worcester. Look for the award to enhance White's marketability this offseason.

Right Field

1871 - Lip Pike, Troy Haymakers (0-22-.317-6)
1872 - George Heubel, Philadelphia Athletics (0-50-.333-4)
1873 - Lip Pike, New York Mutuals (1-48-.341-7)
1874 - Gat Stires, New York Mutuals (1-35-.312-7)
1875 - Orator Shaffer, Hartford Dark Blues (0-42-.257-4)
1876 - Orator Shaffer, Hartford Dark Blues (0-68-.339-0)
1877 - John Glenn, Hartford Dark Blues (0-24-.291-0)
1878 - Buttercup Dickerson, Cincinnati Reds (0-30-.365-0)
1879 - Levi Meyerle, Chicago White Stockings (1-41-.310-4)
1880 - George Bechtel, Cleveland Blues (1-39-.248-3)
1881 - Deacon White, Buffalo Bisons (3-49-.306-0)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

The 1881 Silver Slugger Awards by position:

C - Cal McVey, Boston Red Caps (sixth overall win)
1B - Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans (third consecutive win)
2B - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps (sixth consecutive win; tenth overall)
SS - Jack Glasscock, Cleveland Blues (first win)
3B - Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps (eighth consecutive win; ninth overall)
LF - Abner Dalrymple, Cleveland Blues (fourth consecutive win)
CF - Hardy Richardson, Buffalo Bisons (first win)
RF - Deacon White, Buffalo Bisons (second win; first in right field)

And the Gold Glove Awards by position:

P - Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines (second win)
C - Barney Gilligan, Detroit Wolverines (first win)
1B - Clipper Flynn, Worcester Ruby Legs (fourth win)
2B - Bob Addy, Detroit Wolverines (third win)
SS - John Bass, Chicago White Stockings (second win)
3B - Steve Bellan, Detroit Wolverines (third win)
LF - Abner Dalrymple, Cleveland Blues (third win)
CF - Hardy Richardson, Buffalo Bisons (second win)
RF - George Bechtel, Cleveland Blues (fifth win)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

YEAR-BY-YEAR WINNERS, GOLD GLOVE AWARDS

Pitcher

1871 - Asa Brainard, Washington Olympics
1872 - John "Lefty" McMullin, Troy Haymakers
1873 - John "Lefty" McMullin, Baltimore Canaries
1874 - Frank Fleet, Philadelphia Whites
1875 - Frank Fleet, Philadelphia Whites
1876 - Tommy Bond, Louisville Grays
1877 - Harry Arundel, Louisville Grays
1878 - Pud Galvin, Indianapolis Blues
1879 - John Montgomery Ward, Providence Grays
1880 - John Montgomery Ward, Providence Grays
1881 - Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines

Catcher

1871 - Mike McGeary, Troy Haymakers
1872 - Mike McGeary, Troy Haymakers
1873 - Pop Snyder, Washington Blue Legs
1874 - Pop Snyder, Chicago White Stockings
1875 - Doug Allison, Philadelphia Whites
1876 - Tim McGinley, Louisville Grays
1877 - Dick Higham, Cincinnati Reds
1878 - John Clapp, Providence Grays
1879 - Dick Higham, Cincinnati Reds
1880 - John Clapp, Troy Trojans
1881 - Barney Gilligan, Detroit Wolverines

First Base

1871 - Denny Mack, Rockford Forest Citys
1872 - Charlie Gould, Boston Red Stockings
1873 - Cap Anson, Brooklyn Atlantics
1874 - Cap Anson, Brooklyn Atlantics
1875 - Denny Mack, Chicago White Stockings
1876 - Jim Devlin, Chicago White Stockings
1877 - Clipper Flynn, St. Louis Brown Stockings
1878 - Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
1879 - Clipper Flynn, Cincinnati Reds
1880 - Clipper Flynn, Cincinnati Reds
1881 - Clipper Flynn, Worcester Ruby Legs

Second Base

1871 - Tom Carey, Fort Wayne Kekiongas
1872 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Stockings
1873 - Andy Leonard, Baltimore Canaries
1874 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Stockings
1875 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Stockings
1876 - Tom Carey, Chicago White Stockings
1877 - Tom Carey, Chicago White Stockings
1878 - Bob Addy, Cincinnati Reds
1879 - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Stockings
1880 - Bob Addy, Cincinnati Reds
1881 - Bob Addy, Detroit Wolverines

Shortstop

1871 - Dickie Flowers, Troy Haymakers
1872 - Ed Duffy, Brooklyn Eckfords
1873 - Jimmy Hallinan, Baltimore Canaries
1874 - Jimmy Hallinan, Baltimore Canaries
1875 - Tom Barlow, Brooklyn Atlantics
1876 - George Wright, Boston Red Caps
1877 - John Bass, Chicago White Stockings
1878 - George Wright, Milwaukee Grays
1879 - Jack Glasscock, Cleveland Blues
1880 - Arthur Irwin, Worcester Ruby Legs
1881 - John Bass, Chicago White Stockings

Third Base

1871 - Steve Bellan, Troy Haymakers
1872 - Cap Anson, Brooklyn Atlantics
1873 - Davy Force, Philadelphia Whites
1874 - Fred Waterman, Brooklyn Atlantics
1875 - Ezra Sutton, Chicago White Stockings
1876 - Fred Waterman, Hartford Dark Blues
1877 - Ezra Sutton, St. Louis Brown Stockings
1878 - Ezra Sutton, Indianapolis Blues
1879 - Steve Bellan, Cincinnati Reds
1880 - Arlie Latham, Buffalo Bisons
1881 - Steve Bellan, Detroit Wolverines

Left Field

1871 - Fred Treacey, Chicago White Stockings
1872 - Charlie Pabor, Cleveland Forest Citys
1873 - Fred Treacey, Philadelphia Athletics
1874 - Steve King, New York Mutuals
1875 - Fred Treacey, Philadelphia Athletics
1876 - Al Thake, Chicago White Stockings
1877 - Count Gedney, Hartford Dark Blues
1878 - Abner Dalrymple, Milwaukee Grays
1879 - Charley Jones, Providence Grays
1880 - Abner Dalrymple, Cleveland Blues
1881 - Abner Dalrymple, Cleveland Blues

Center Field

1871 - Tom Foley, Chicago White Stockings
1872 - Count Sensenderfer, Philadelphia Athletics
1873 - George Hall, Philadelphia Athletics
1874 - Paul Hines, Philadelphia Whites
1875 - Frank McCarton, New York Mutuals
1876 - Tom Foley, Hartford Dark Blues
1877 - Count Sensenderfer, Boston Red Caps
1878 - Count Sensenderfer, Boston Red Caps
1879 - George Gore, Chicago White Stockings
1880 - Hardy Richardson, Buffalo Bisons
1881 - Hardy Richardson, Buffalo Bisons

Right Field

1871 - Lip Pike, Troy Haymakers
1872 - Elmer White, Cleveland Forest Citys
1873 - George Bechtel, Philadelphia Athletics
1874 - George Heubel, Philadelphia Athletics
1875 - George Bechtel, Philadelphia Athletics
1876 - Orator Shaffer, Hartford Dark Blues
1877 - John Glenn, Hartford Dark Blues
1878 - Orator Shaffer, Boston Red Caps
1879 - George Bechtel, Cleveland Blues
1880 - George Bechtel, Cleveland Blues
1881 - George Bechtel, Cleveland Blues

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

Rookie of the Year Award - Nominees

George Derby, Detroit Wolverines - RHP (12-12, 2.29) - He wasn't a full-time starter for Detroit, but did a good job when they used him and seems to have strong potential for the future.

Buck Ewing, Troy Trojans - SS-2B (2-33-.286-0) - He played a few games in 1880, but is still considered a rookie. They aren't quite sure where to play him yet, as he's a little green at both infield positions, but he seems to be a very promising hitter.

Martin Powell, Detroit Wolverines - 1B (2-43-.273-0) - This 25-year-old gave the new club some stability in the infield.

Pop Smith, Detroit Wolverines - IF (0-30-.266-0) - They used him at shortstop, but Smith can play all of the infield positions quite skillfully, and turned out to be a solid hitter as well.

Ed Swartwood, Buffalo Bisons - 1B-OF (0-25-.311-0) - He didn't win his starting job until midway through the year, but did a fantastic job once he got the position. Look for him to be a mainstay for years to come.

And the 1881 Rookie of the Year is.... ED SWARTWOOD, in a very close vote, with George Derby as the runner-up and Buck Ewing in third. None of these players looked like superstars, but Swartwood's performance, even in 2/3 of a season, really stood out.

Rookie of the Year

1871 - Dickie Flowers, Troy
1872 - Frank McCarton, Middletown
1873 - Jack Manning, Boston
1874 - Steve Brady, Hartford
1875 - Sam Weaver, Philadelphia (W)
1876 - Foghorn Bradley, Boston
1877 - Bobby Mitchell, Cincinnati
1878 - Buttercup Dickerson, Cincinnati
1879 - Dan Brouthers, Troy
1880 - Larry Corcoran, Chicago
1881 - Ed Swartwood, Buffalo

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

Cartwright Award - Nominees

Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines - RHP (17-16, 1.91, 296.2 IP, 301 H, 40 BB, 68 K, 1 HR) - He was rescued from the scrap heap by Detroit, after having been sitting around on Providence's bench for several years. Although he ended up sharing time with rookie George Derby, he still had an excellent year for the Wolverines.

George Bradley, Cleveland Blues* - RHP (33-18, 2.36, 461.0 IP, 398 H, 89 BB, 69 K, 6 HR) - He chose to resign with Cleveland on a one-year deal before the 1881 season, and it paid off as he was the top pitcher on a pennant-winning team. However, he doesn't strike anyone out, so he's usually not regarded as one of the league's premier pitchers.

Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings - RHP (32-24, 2.63, 503.2 IP, 507 H, 109 BB, 285 K, 6 HR) - In his second season, Corcoran had to overcome a lackluster 3-7 start. However, he bounced back with a very solid year, though it did not match his amazing rookie campaign.

Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps - LHP (27-21, 2.36, 446.2 IP, 440 H, 63 BB, 170 K, 6 HR) - Although his team failed to win the pennant for the first time in his career, he still had a solid season for the Red Caps.

Pud Galvin, Troy Trojans* - RHP (37-20, 2.48, 496.2 IP, 547 H, 55 BB, 207 K, 10 HR) - He seems to be at the top of his game now at age 24. Although he gave up a rather startlingly high number of home runs, he is one of the league's best strikeout pitchers, and led the league in victories by four. He is sure to fetch a king's ransom in free agency this offseason.

And the 1881 Cartwright Award winner is... PUD GALVIN. This is Galvin's first award, and he edged out runner-up Corcoran and third-place winner Bond in very, very close voting. All five of the nominees attracted some first-place votes for the first time ever.

Cartwright Award

1871 - Dick McBride, Philadelphia
1872 - Dick McBride, Philadelphia
1873 - Dick McBride, Philadelphia (A)
1874 - Dick McBride, Philadelphia (A)
1875 - Sam Weaver, Philadelphia (W)
1876 - J. O'Neill, Chicago
1877 - Harry Arundel, Louisville
1878 - J. O'Neill, Chicago
1879 - Bobby Mitchell, Cincinnati
1880 - Larry Corcoran, Chicago
1881 - Pud Galvin, Troy