1876: A New League Begins

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

September 10, 1882 - Sunday Base Ball Report

National League

Boston Red Caps 49-24
Detroit Wolverines 44-28
Cleveland Blues 38-34
Buffalo Bisons 37-34
Providence Grays 36-37
Troy Trojans 30-42
Chicago White Stockings 27-44
Worcester Ruby Legs 27-45

Boston took two of three in their final series against Detroit, which pretty much destroys any chance the Wolverines had of sneaking off with the National League pennant. However, all of the major individual awards are still very much up for grabs in the NL, with MVH expected to be a battle between three-time winner Ross Barnes and newcomer Dan Brouthers of lowly Troy.

The current league leaders:

Batting Average - .350, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
On-Base Percentage - .399, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Slugging Percentage - .550, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
OPS - .937, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Hits - 112, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Doubles - 20, 3 players tied
Triples - 18, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Home Runs - 6, Fred Dunlap, Cleveland and Pete Hotaling, Detroit
Extra Base Hits - 39, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Total Bases - 175, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Runs Batted In - 63, Ross Barnes, Boston and Pete Hotaling, Detroit
Runs Scored - 80, John Reilly, Detroit Wolverines
Stolen Bases - 29, John Reilly, Detroit Wolverines
Walks - 39, Roger Connor, Troy Trojans
Strikeouts - 49, Sam Wise, Detroit Wolverines
RC/27 - 8.41, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
ISO - .204, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
VORP (Batting) - 37.9, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans

Earned Run Average - 2.01, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps
Wins - 25, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps
Losses - 28, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Saves - 4, Jim McCormick, Cleveland Blues
Innings Pitched - 343 2/3, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Shutouts - 3, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines
Walks - 70, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Strikeouts - 205, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
H/9IP - 7.41, Charlie Buffinton, Boston Red Caps
HR/9IP - 0.00, Pat McManus, Troy Trojans
BB/9IP - 0.77, Pidgey Morgan, Troy Trojans
K/9IP - 6.49, Hugh "One Arm" Daily, Buffalo Bisons
K/BB Ratio - 4.53, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Opp. Avg. - .203, Charlie Buffinton, Boston Red Caps
WHIP - 1.04, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps
VORP (Pitching) - 64.3, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps

American Association

Louisville Eclipse 41-21
St. Louis Brown Stockings 46-28
Baltimore Orioles 36-30
Cincinnati Red Stockings 29-37
Pittsburgh Alleghenys 28-40
Philadelphia Athletics 20-44

Louisville has a long series at Cincinnati this week, which should help determine whether St. Louis has a chance to pull ahead for the inaugural AA pennant. The Brown Stockings' two ace pitchers have certainly done their part, as both Dorr and McGinnis have been the class of the league all season long.

The current league leaders:

Batting Average - .376, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
On-Base Percentage - .436, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Slugging Percentage - .546, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
OPS - .982, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Hits - 106, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Doubles - 17, 4 players tied
Triples - 11, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Home Runs - 3, 8 players tied
Extra Base Hits - 31, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Total Bases - 154, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Runs Batted In - 63, Jimmy Say, Louisville Eclipse
Runs Scored - 85, Charlie Comiskey, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Stolen Bases - 18, Charlie Comiskey, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Walks - 31, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Strikeouts - 38, Jack O'Brien, Philadelphia Athletics
RC/27 - 9.82, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
ISO - .170, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
VORP (Batting) - 40.4, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse

Earned Run Average - 1.64, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Wins - 22, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Losses - 21, Pud Galvin, Philadelphia and John "Lefty" McMullin, Pittsburgh
Saves - 4, Charlie Bohn, Louisville Eclipse
Innings Pitched - 303, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Shutouts - 2, Bert Dorr, St. Louis and Terry Larkin, Baltimore
Walks - 95, Harry Arundel, Cincinnati Red Stockings
Strikeouts - 194, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
H/9IP - 8.03, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
HR/9IP - 0.00, 4 players tied
BB/9IP - 0.67, Foghorn Bradley, Louisville Eclipse
K/9IP - 5.76, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
K/BB Ratio - 6.44, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Opp. Avg. - .205, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
WHIP - 0.97, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
VORP (Pitching) - 59.9, Pud Galvin, Philadelphia Athletics

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

September 17, 1882 - Sunday Base Ball Report

National League

Boston Red Caps 50-27
Detroit Wolverines 47-29
Buffalo Bisons 41-34
Cleveland Blues 41-35
Providence Grays 40-37
Troy Trojans 30-46
Chicago White Stockings 28-47
Worcester Ruby Legs 27-49

Boston continues to lead the NL by what seems to be a decisive margin, but they also had an off-week, losing three of four games and letting Detroit creep back within striking distance. One good week would do it though, and this week Boston is in Buffalo before heading home to welcome the Troy Trojans.

The current league leaders:

Batting Average - .351, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
On-Base Percentage - .390, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Slugging Percentage - .560, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
OPS - .949, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Hits - 118, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Doubles - 21, Roger Connor, Troy and Sadie Houck, Boston
Triples - 20, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Home Runs - 6, 3 players tied
Extra Base Hits - 42, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Total Bases - 188, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Runs Batted In - 63, Ross Barnes, Boston and Pete Hotaling, Detroit
Runs Scored - 84, John Reilly, Detroit Wolverines
Stolen Bases - 30, John Reilly, Detroit Wolverines
Walks - 39, Roger Connor, Troy Trojans
Strikeouts - 52, Sam Wise, Detroit Wolverines
RC/27 - 8.70, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
ISO - .208, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
VORP (Batting) - 41.7, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans

Earned Run Average - 2.13, Pidgey Morgan, Troy Trojans
Wins - 25, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps
Losses - 30, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Saves - 4, Jim McCormick, Cleveland Blues
Innings Pitched - 360 2/3, Larry Corcoran, Chicago and Curry Foley, Boston
Shutouts - 3, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines
Walks - 79, Harry Wheeler, Providence Grays
Strikeouts - 210, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
H/9IP - 7.60, Charlie Buffinton, Boston Red Caps
HR/9IP - 0.00, Pat McManus, Troy Trojans
BB/9IP - 0.79, Pidgey Morgan, Troy Trojans
K/9IP - 6.59, Hugh "One Arm" Daily, Buffalo Bisons
K/BB Ratio - 4.63, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Opp. Avg. - .207, Charlie Buffinton, Boston Red Caps
WHIP - 1.06, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps
VORP (Pitching) - 62.3, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps

American Association

Louisville Eclipse 47-21
St. Louis Brown Stockings 47-28
Baltimore Orioles 36-30
Pittsburgh Alleghenys 30-42
Cincinnati Red Stockings 29-44
Philadelphia Athletics 22-46

The Eclipse had an amazing week, and none of them more so than Pete Browning, their local boy made good. The Gladiator has been unstoppable over his team's last six games, with 19 hits, 6 walks, 15 runs scored, 12 driven in, and a .655 average over that stretch.

That alone has pushed Louisville significantly ahead of their rivals in St. Louis. If Browning can just keep hitting for anothe week or two, Louisville will take home the inaugural AA pennant.

The current league leaders:

Batting Average - .402, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
On-Base Percentage - .463, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Slugging Percentage - .582, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
OPS - 1.045, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Hits - 125, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Doubles - 19, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Triples - 11, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Home Runs - 5, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Extra Base Hits - 35, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Total Bases - 181, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Runs Batted In - 72, Jimmy Say, Louisville Eclipse
Runs Scored - 85, Charlie Comiskey, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Stolen Bases - 99, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Walks - 37, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Strikeouts - 40, Jack O'Brien, Philadelphia and Lip Pike, Cincinnati
RC/27 - 11.69, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
ISO - .180, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
VORP (Batting) - 52.6, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse

Earned Run Average - 1.66, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Wins - 23, Foghorn Bradley, Louisville Eclipse
Losses - 21, Pud Galvin, Philadelphia and John "Lefty" McMullin, Pittsburgh
Saves - 4, Charlie Bohn, Louisville Eclipse
Innings Pitched - 303, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Shutouts - 2, Bert Dorr, St. Louis and Terry Larkin, Baltimore
Walks - 100, Harry Arundel, Cincinnati Red Stockings
Strikeouts - 194, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
H/9IP - 7.94, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
HR/9IP - 0.00, 4 players tied
BB/9IP - 0.61, Foghorn Bradley, Louisville Eclipse
K/9IP - 5.76, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
K/BB Ratio - 6.75, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Opp. Avg. - .203, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
WHIP - 0.96, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
VORP (Pitching) - 62.2, Pud Galvin, Philadelphia Athletics

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

September 24, 1882 - Sunday Base Ball Report

National League

Boston Red Caps 51-29
Detroit Wolverines 51-29
Buffalo Bisons 43-36
Cleveland Blues 43-36
Providence Grays 41-39
Chicago White Stockings 31-48
Troy Trojans 30-48
Worcester Ruby Legs 27-52

Another mediocre week by Boston and a stellar one by Detroit has brought the National League's two contenders into a tie for first place with a week to go in the season. The remaining games for each of the teams:

Boston - vs. Troy (2), vs. Providence, at Providence
Detroit - at Buffalo, at Cleveland (2)

With one additional game to play, Boston still controls its own destiny, but is on the verge of narrowly losing the pennant for the second year in a row.

The current league leaders:

Batting Average - .349, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
On-Base Percentage - .392, Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps
Slugging Percentage - .552, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
OPS - .942, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Hits - 120, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Doubles - 23, Sadie Houck, Boston Red Caps
Triples - 20, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Home Runs - 6, 3 players tied
Extra Base Hits - 42, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Total Bases - 190, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Runs Batted In - 64, Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps
Runs Scored - 87, John Reilly, Detroit Wolverines
Stolen Bases - 30, John Reilly, Detroit Wolverines
Walks - 41, Roger Connor, Troy Trojans
Strikeouts - 54, Sam Wise, Detroit Wolverines
RC/27 - 8.59, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
ISO - .203, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
VORP (Batting) - 42.0, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans

Earned Run Average - 1.90, Charlie Sweeney, Providence Grays
Wins - 26, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps
Losses - 32, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Saves - 5, Jim McCormick, Cleveland Blues
Innings Pitched - 381 2/3, Larry Corcoran, Chicago and Curry Foley, Boston
Shutouts - 3, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines
Walks - 86, Harry Wheeler, Providence Grays
Strikeouts - 222, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
H/9IP - 7.14, Charlie Sweeney, Providence Grays
HR/9IP - 0.00, Pat McManus, Troy Trojans
BB/9IP - 0.89, Pidgey Morgan, Troy Trojans
K/9IP - 6.67, Hugh "One Arm" Daily, Buffalo Bisons
K/BB Ratio - 4.41, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Opp. Avg. - .200, Charlie Sweeney, Providence Grays
WHIP - 1.05, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps
VORP (Pitching) - 65.7, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps

American Association

Louisville Eclipse 51-23
St. Louis Brown Stockings 50-28
Baltimore Orioles 40-30
Pittsburgh Alleghenys 32-46
Cincinnati Red Stockings 29-47
Philadelphia Athletics 22-50

Louisville looks comfortably in front with a week to go. It is still mathematically possible for them to lose, but in reality it looks like young Browning has carried his team to the first AA pennant.

The current league leaders:

Batting Average - .402, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
On-Base Percentage - .466, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Slugging Percentage - .580, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
OPS - 1.046, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Hits - 135, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Doubles - 21, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Triples - 12, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Home Runs - 5, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Extra Base Hits - 38, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Total Bases - 195, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Runs Batted In - 75, Jimmy Say, Louisville Eclipse
Runs Scored - 107, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Stolen Bases - 18, Charlie Comiskey, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Walks - 42, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Strikeouts - 42, Jack O'Brien, Philadelphia and Lip Pike, Cincinnati
RC/27 - 11.85, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
ISO - .179, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
VORP (Batting) - 57.1, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse

Earned Run Average - 1.59, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Wins - 25, Foghorn Bradley, Louisville Eclipse
Losses - 23, Pud Galvin, Philadelphia Athletics
Saves - 4, Charlie Bohn, Louisville Eclipse
Innings Pitched - 321, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Shutouts - 2, Bert Dorr, St. Louis and Terry Larkin, Baltimore
Walks - 104, Harry Arundel, Cincinnati Red Stockings
Strikeouts - 203, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
H/9IP - 7.69, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
HR/9IP - 0.00, 4 players tied
BB/9IP - 0.60, Foghorn Bradley, Louisville Eclipse
K/9IP - 5.69, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
K/BB Ratio - 7.06, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Opp. Avg. - .199, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
WHIP - 0.93, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
VORP (Pitching) - 63.3, Pud Galvin, Philadelphia Athletics

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

September 25, 1882

Boston outhit Troy 9-6 in a game that included a home run by star second baseman Ross Barnes, while Detroit's George Derby pitched a three-hitter for a 7-2 victory over Buffalo. The teams remain tied. Detroit now has two games left to play, and Boston has three.

In other news, Cleveland's Jim Foran today became the fifth member of the 1,000-hit club, as he got a double in Cleveland's 6-3 loss to Chicago. The present top five hitters of all time:

Cal McVey - 1,250 hits
Cap Anson - 1,209 hits
Ross Barnes - 1,203 hits
Levi Meyerle - 1,086 hits
Jim Foran - 1,000 hits

Just behind Foran are several other players who are candidates to get to 1,000 next season:

Jim O'Rourke - 967 hits
Lip Pike - 965 hits
Andy Leonard - 917 hits
Clipper Flynn - 916 hits
Deacon White - 870 hits
Fred Waterman - 866 hits

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

September 26, 1882

Boston dismantled Troy 14-3 while Detroit was idle. Boston is now ahead by one-half game. Each team has two games left to play.

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

September 28, 1882

Cleveland 4, Detroit 1 - Detroit's chances of winning the National League got a lot worse with this loss to the Cleveland club. The 3-4-5 hitters for Detroit went 0 for 11 in the game, and Cleveland played an errorless game in the field. Now, with only one game to play, Detroit must win and hope Boston loses both its last two games.

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

September 29, 1882

Cleveland 7, Detroit 2 - Cleveland continued its role as the spoiler this season, easily defeating Detroit and clinching the National League pennant for idle Boston. Detroit managed only two hits in the entire game, as again Cleveland's defense proved to be the difference.

This means that Boston will win its third National League pennant, tying Chicago for the most pennants won.

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

FINAL 1882 STANDINGS AND LEADERS

National League

Boston Red Caps 54-30
Detroit Wolverines 52-31
Buffalo Bisons 46-38
Cleveland Blues 45-37
Providence Grays 44-40
Chicago White Stockings 33-51
Troy Trojans 32-51
Worcester Ruby Legs 28-56

Although Boston played relatively poorly down the stretch, they still had enough left to narrowly win their third National League pennant. Once again, Ross Barnes and Cap Anson were the individual stars, with pitcher Curry Foley having a standout year as well.

Meanwhile, with the announcement that new teams were to be added in Philadelphia and New York City, there was a need to either allow for ten teams or get rid of two existing ones. As it turned out, the two smallest markets were also the two worst teams in 1882, so the choice was relatively easy. Troy and Worcester were kicked out of the National League, and their players were to become free agents, able to sign with any team. This meant that such top-notch players as Dan Brouthers, Harry Stovey, Roger Connor, and Bobby Mitchell were to hit the market in the offseason.

The final NL leaders:

Batting Average - .358, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
On-Base Percentage - .397, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Slugging Percentage - .556, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
OPS - .953, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Hits - 132, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Doubles - 23, Charlie Eden, Chicago and Sadie Houck, Boston
Triples - 20, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Home Runs - 7, Charley Jones, Providence Grays
Extra Base Hits - 45, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Total Bases - 205, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
Runs Batted In - 69, Ross Barnes, Boston and Roger Connor, Troy
Runs Scored - 88, John Reilly, Detroit Wolverines
Stolen Bases - 32, Arlie Latham, Buffalo Bisons
Walks - 44, Roger Connor, Troy Trojans
Strikeouts - 56, Emil Gross, Providence Grays
RC/27 - 8.85, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans
ISO - .204, Harry Stovey, Worcester Ruby Legs
VORP (Batting) - 47.2, Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans

Earned Run Average - 1.71, Charlie Sweeney, Providence Grays
Wins - 27, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps
Losses - 32, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Saves - 5, Jim McCormick, Cleveland Blues
Innings Pitched - 399 2/3, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
Shutouts - 3, Tommy Bond, Detroit Wolverines
Walks - 90, Harry Wheeler, Providence Grays
Strikeouts - 228, Larry Corcoran, Chicago White Stockings
H/9IP - 6.72, Charlie Sweeney, Providence Grays
HR/9IP - 0.00, Pat McManus, Troy Trojans
BB/9IP - 0.92, Pidgey Morgan, Troy Trojans
K/9IP - 6.72, Hugh "One Arm" Daily, Buffalo Bisons
K/BB Ratio - 4.41, Bobby Mitchell, Worcester Ruby Legs
Opp. Avg. - .191, Charlie Sweeney, Providence Grays
WHIP - 1.06, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps
VORP (Pitching) - 67.2, Curry Foley, Boston Red Caps

American Association

Louisville Eclipse 55-25
St. Louis Brown Stockings 51-29
Baltimore Orioles 42-31
Pittsburgh Alleghenys 32-46
Cincinnati Red Stockings 30-50
Philadelphia Athletics 23-52

In the end, Louisville and its star Pete Browning were just too much for the rest of the Association. While Louisville cranks insist that Browning is the best hitter the game has ever seen, National League rooters counter by pointing out the Browning had his great year against inferior competition. It will be interesting to see whether the Association can raise its quality of play in the coming years. Because attendance at the Beer and Whiskey League was so strong, it is thought that the AA will quickly catch up to the NL in quality.

Meanwhile, the AA will also be adding two new teams this offseason - one in New York City to counter the NL team there, and one in Columbus, Ohio.

The final AA leaders:

Batting Average - .403, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
On-Base Percentage - .468, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Slugging Percentage - .582, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
OPS - 1.050, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Hits - 137, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Doubles - 22, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Triples - 12, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Home Runs - 5, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Extra Base Hits - 39, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Total Bases - 198, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Runs Batted In - 77, Jimmy Say, Louisville Eclipse
Runs Scored - 109, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Stolen Bases - 18, Charlie Comiskey, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Walks - 43, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
Strikeouts - 42, Jack O'Brien, Philadelphia and Lip Pike, Cincinnati
RC/27 - 11.97, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
ISO - .179, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse
VORP (Batting) - 59.6, Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse

Earned Run Average - 1.59, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Wins - 28, Foghorn Bradley, Louisville Eclipse
Losses - 24, Harry Arundel, Cincinnati and Pud Galvin, Philadelphia
Saves - 5, Charlie Bohn, Louisville Eclipse
Innings Pitched - 327 2/3, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Shutouts - 2, Bert Dorr, St. Louis and Terry Larkin, Baltimore
Walks - 111, Harry Arundel, Cincinnati Red Stockings
Strikeouts - 205, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
H/9IP - 7.69, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
HR/9IP - 0.00, 4 players tied
BB/9IP - 0.58, Foghorn Bradley, Louisville Eclipse
K/9IP - 5.63, Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings
K/BB Ratio - 7.06, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
Opp. Avg. - .199, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
WHIP - 0.93, Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings
VORP (Pitching) - 63.1, Pud Galvin, Philadelphia Athletics

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
1882 - Boston Red Caps

American Association

1882 - Louisville Eclipse

Individual Awards coming soon....

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - CATCHER

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

National League

Tom Barlow, Troy Trojans* (0-37-.253-8) - Although he is still only 30 years old, he still seems to have declined in his hitting ability over the past few years. Nevertheless, he was a capable catcher for Troy, and some team is almost certain to put him in a starting role next season.

Charlie Bennett, Cleveland Blues (0-23-.166-0) - Although he is a first-rate fielder at catcher, he has simply never developed as a hitter. Cleveland may need to replace him if they are to return to their pennant-winning form.

Emil Gross, Providence Grays (1-46-.259-0) - Although he still hasn't recaptured the magic of his .300-hitting rookie season, he did much better this season than in the previous two. Capable if unspectacular behind the plate.

Dick Higham, Worcester Ruby Legs* (0-28-.251-1) - Higham has done a solid job for every team he has played for, but he reportedly was happiest in New York in the early 1870s. Some observers believe this will give the two new clubs in Gotham the best chance to sign him this offseason.

Cal McVey, Boston Red Caps* (0-45-.277-15) - He had an off-year this season at exactly the wrong time, as he is unhappy with the contract offers Boston made to him and so will test the market. At age 33, he is the career leader in hits and probably still has a few strong years left.

"Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings* (4-58-.268-0) - He has been one of the better hitters in the league for years, although he had the lowest batting average of his career this year by nearly 20 points. Still, he should get a good contract this offseason.

Martin Powell, Detroit Wolverines (0-20-.272-1) - Detroit split the catching duties between Powell, who can hit but can't field at catcher, and Tom Foley, who is an adequate fielder but poor hitter. At least they're better off than last year, when they had Gilligan behind the plate.

Frank Selman, Buffalo Bisons (1-42-.231-6) - Selman is a steady, solid player, but probably not worth the huge 4-year contract extension Buffalo gave him during the season.

American Association

Tug Arundel, Philadelphia Athletics (1-19-.152-6) - One of many reasons why Philadelphia simply could not compete with the more skilled teams this season.

Eddie Fusselback, St. Louis Brown Stockings (1-43-.257-0) - He did a solid job as a 26-year-old rookie, and looks like he could be a solid player behind the plate for years to come.

Dan Sullivan, Louisville Eclipse (1-54-.248-0) - This rookie was solid enough to keep this spot from being a liability for the pennant-winners, and given their star outfield that was all that was necessary.

Tug Thompson, Cincinnati Red Stockings (1-26-.234-0) - It took Cincinnati a while to settle on an everyday catcher, and once they decided on Thompson he did an adequate job. A poor fielder behind the plate.

Deacon White, Pittsburgh Alleghenys (2-47-.311-0) - One of the few established base ball stars to jump to the new league, he did well, as expected.

Ed Whiting, Baltimore Orioles (0-48-.326-0) - He was expected to be a good defensive player, but no one thought this rookie was much of a hitter. He spent the 1882 season proving the critics wrong with a phenomenal rookie campaign.

And the awards for best catcher of 1882 go to... JIM O'ROURKE OF CHICAGO in the National League, and ED WHITING OF BALTIMORE in the American Association. For O'Rourke, it is his fourth time winning the award for best catcher. For Whiting, his award is a major upset, as nearly all observers expected the veteran White to get the hardware.

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)
1882 - NL - Jim O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings (4-58-.268-0) / AA - Ed Whiting, Baltimore Orioles (0-48-.326-0)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - FIRST BASE

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

National League

Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans* (4-55-.358-18) - What a prize he's going to be this offseason. Brouthers led the NL in nearly every offensive category this year, and he is only 24 years old. He is the heir apparent to Barnes and Anson as the NL's offensive star, and he'll be on the open market this offseason.

Lew Brown, Boston Red Caps (1-25-.319-0) - He's really more of a catcher than an infielder, but with Cal McVey behind the plate, they decided midway through the year to give him a shot at first base. He did an outstanding job in his trial and some observers suggest this contributed to the team being willing to let McVey go. He'll probably catch next year, which means the team will have a vacancy at this spot.

Ed Cogswell, Providence Grays (1-45-.267-0) - He was made into a true everyday player this year for the first time in his career, and did a solid job for Providence. Meanwhile, Fred Corey, the pitcher for whom he was traded, continues to do nothing in Boston.

Clipper Flynn, Worcester Ruby Legs* (0-32-.254-0) - This 33-year-old has been a reasonably good hitter for years now. He's a perfect stopgap, but is a long way from being a star. Still, expect him to draw some interest from teams who need a first baseman but can't afford Brouthers.

Jim Foran, Cleveland Blues* (2-42-.281-2) - This veteran became the fifth player to reach the 1,000-hit milestone this season, yet Cleveland has announced they simply haven't got the money to resign him. He'll be a good veteran pickup for some team.

Hugh Nicol, Chicago White Stockings (1-30-.212-20) - This young speedster simply isn't a good enough hitter to justify his constant inclusion in the team's lineup. Look for them to replace him if they can.

John Reilly, Detroit Wolverines (2-37-.283-30) - This 23-year-old's emergence as one of the NL's better first baseman was integral to Detroit's rise to a near-pennant this year. If he can sustain this level of production, he could be one of the bright stars of the 1880s.

Ecky Stearns, Buffalo Bisons (1-25-.137-7) - He was probably the worst position player in the entire league last year. Yeah, he's only 20 and still developing, but how long does this team want to give him? This is his third season as a black hole for Buffalo at first base.

American Association

Charlie Comiskey, St. Louis Brown Stockings (2-47-.287-18) - This talented 23-year-old not only was one of the best rookies in the AA, but also showed some real on-field leadership. He seems to have a very bright future in base ball.

John Glenn, Louisville Eclipse* (0-68-.284-1) - After four weak years with Providence, it looked like Glenn was just headed to Louisville to wind down his career. Instead, he had a record hitting streak and was one of the integral parts of a pennant-winning team. Surprisingly, he hasn't resigned with Louisville, so he'll see what kind of interest he draws this offseason.

Ralph Ham, Cincinnati Reds (0-36-.233-7) - Longtime journeyman Ham took his solid but unspectacular play to Cincinnati this season, the ninth professional team of his career.

Charlie Householder, Baltimore Orioles (2-61-.246-0) - This 28-year-old rookie did a solid job for the Baltimore club, and is expected to retain his starting job next season.

Chappy Lane, Pittsburgh Alleghenys (1-38-.201-0) - He wasn't the first baseman they would've liked, but he's all they had. Look for them to try to upgrade at this position in the offseason.

Jack O'Brien, Philadelphia Athletics (3-53-.282-0) - This young player was one of the few bright spots for last-place Philadelphia in 1882.

And the best-hitting first basemen for 1882 are... DAN BROUTHERS OF THE TROY TROJANS in the National League, and CHARLIE COMISKEY OF THE ST. LOUIS BROWN STOCKINGS in the American Association. This is Brouthers' fourth win in a row, while Comiskey, a rookie, gets his first award.

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)
1882 - NL - Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans (4-55-.358-18) / AA - Charlie Comiskey, St. Louis Brown Stockings (2-47-.287-18)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - SECOND BASE

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

National League

Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps (5-69-.340-7) - This perennial superstar again helped lead Boston to the pennant. He's been a star since the beginning of professional base ball, and is still only 32 years old.

George Creamer, Buffalo Bisons (0-15-.253-0) - He came over in a trade from Cleveland in midseason and did a solid job. Generally considered more of a fielder than a hitter.

Fred "Sure Shot" Dunlap, Cleveland Blues (6-45-.309-0) - Dunlap is establishing himself as one of the best young players in base ball, although at second base he's still overshadowed by Boston's Barnes.

Buck Ewing, Troy Trojans* (1-45-.275-0) - This versatile 22-year-old has played his way into a starting job at second base, although it remains to be seen how his new team will use him, as he is also a catcher and outfielder who can play all four infield spots.

Andy Leonard, Providence Grays* (0-44-.243-7) - Although he's going to turn 37 next season, Leonard is still an adequate hitter and a very good fielder. No doubt he'll find a team to latch on with.

Bill McClellan, Chicago White Stockings (2-36-.255-1) - He's always been a solid utility man for Chicago, and this year with Paul Hines' departure he got a chance to start and did an adequate job.

Pop Smith, Detroit Wolverines (0-15-.185-0) - The thinking was that he would make a good replacement for the aging Bob "Magnet" Addy. While Smith is as slick a fielder as Addy, he just doesn't seem to have the hitting ability. They'll probably continue looking for an answer at this position.

Art Whitney, Worcester Ruby Legs* (1-28-.218-0) - He just doesn't seem to have the hitting ability to be a truly effective second baseman. Remains to be seen whether he'll find a starting job in 1883.

American Association

Tom Evers, Baltimore Orioles (0-16-.201-0) - This scrappy second baseman is rather short on ability, but plays hard enough to merit a spot as a utility man.

George Fair, St. Louis Brown Stockings (0-17-.185-0) - He bombed in his first chance at a starting role, and is not expected to get a second one.

Jack Manning, Pittsburgh Alleghenys* (1-46-.182-1) - He was a poor player in Boston, but Pittsburgh thought the change in scenery would do him good. They have announced they will make no attempt to resign him, so it's back to the drawing board.

Bid McPhee, Cincinnati Red Stockings (3-44-.294-5) - This budding star had his season cut short early by a back injury that will probably keep him out of action for part of 1883 as well. If he can come back from this injury, he looks like a very good player.

John Strick, Louisville Eclipse (0-28-.205-0) - A pretty useless player who's probably better in the outfield than at second base.

Cub Stricker, Philadelphia Athletics (0-29-.221-1) - This 22-year-old showed some potential this season, but needs to get better with the bat in order to retain his starting job.

And the best second basemen of 1882 are... ROSS BARNES OF THE BOSTON RED CAPS and BID McPHEE OF THE CINCINNATI RED STOCKINGS. It is Barnes' eleventh award and McPhee's first.

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)
1882 - NL - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps (5-69-.340-7) / AA - Bid McPhee, Cincinnati Red Stockings (3-44-.294-5)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - SHORTSTOP

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

National League

John Bass, Chicago White Stockings (3-30-.229-1) - Late in his career, he's turned into a good-field, no-hit infielder. Has been way overpaid for years, but signed a three-year contract extension with Chicago that will bring his pay down to a more reasonable level.

Ed Caskin, Troy Trojans* (0-16-.243-0) - Struggling Troy was playing musical chairs all season with the shortstop position, and it was career backup Caskin who got the most games in at the spot. His future is probably as a utility infielder.

Jack Glasscock, Cleveland Blues (2-44-.303-0) - Even though Cleveland didn't do as well as in 1882, he had another outstanding season for them. One of the best fielders in the league.

Sadie Houck, Boston Red Caps (1-46-.271-0) - He's a steady shortstop who has three pennants in his four professional seasons. He'll never be a star, but he is a consistently good player.

Arthur Irwin, Worcester Ruby Legs* (0-25-.221-0) - In late July, young Irwin suffered what is feared to be a career-ending shoulder injury. In an odd turn of events, he was replaced in Worcester by his own brother, who hit .243 although he doesn't have nearly the same instincts at shortstop.

Mike Moynahan, Buffalo Bisons (3-30-.231-2) - He's become a mainstay of the club at shortstop, though he had an off-year at the plate in 1882.

Sam Wise, Detroit Wolverines (1-41-.271-11) - This young player won a starting job early in the season and had an excellent rookie year. Look for him to be their new shortstop for years to come.

George Wright, Providence Grays* (1-28-.233-11) - He's been considered washed up for years, but got a fresh start in New England, where he starred for Boston in the early 1870s. The results weren't spectacular, but he showed that he may deserve continued big league employment.

American Association

Francis Abercrombie, Cincinnati Reds* (0-41-.193-0) - He's been hanging around the fringes of professional base ball since the early 1870s. Not a good player, but he's an adequate backup. A career .214 hitter.

Bill Gleason, St. Louis Brown Stockings (0-56-.289-1) - The only one of the AA's young shortstops with any real talent. His strong rookie year helped catapult the Browns into contention.

Wally Goldsmith, Pittsburgh Alleghenys (0-40-.238-0) - As an infielder who could both hit well enough to not hurt his team, and field his position respectably, he's what passed for a star in this inaugural AA season. The Alleghenys are the eighth team he's played for.

Bill Greenwood, Philadelphia Athletics (0-21-.187-15) - Another lousy-hitting young infielder. Don't look for him to be a starter for much longer.

Nick Scharf, Baltimore Orioles (0-18-.190-0) - Not a great hitter or a particularly good fielder. He'll be gone as soon as Baltimore can add a better shortstop.

Bill Schenck, Louisville Eclipse (0-43-.233-0) - He's not a good fielder, but is adequate enough at short to not hurt his team.

And the awards for best shortstop of 1882 go to... JACK GLASSCOCK OF THE CLEVELAND BLUES in the National League, and BILL GLEASON OF THE ST. LOUIS BROWN STOCKINGS in the American Association. This is Glasscock's second award and Gleason's first; both appear to have very bright futures ahead of them.

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)
1882 - NL - Jack Glasscock, Cleveland Blues (2-44-.303-0) / AA - Bill Gleason, St. Louis Brown Stockings (0-56-.289-1)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - THIRD BASE

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

National League

Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps (3-61-.330-17) - Not the greatest year he's ever had, but that only shows how ridiculously high his standards are. Has one more year on his contract with Boston.

Steve Bellan, Detroit Wolverines* (2-39-.223-3) - A very good fielder and relatively poor hitter. He wasn't offered a contract extension by Detroit, so look for him with one of the new teams in 1883.

Roger Connor, Troy Trojans* (3-69-.296-1) - This 25-year-old has a ton of potential, and seems to be on the brink of superstardom. Could be a steal for whichever team picks him up.

Jerry Denny, Providence Grays (1-42-.243-0) - This young man has yet to achieve his potential with Providence, but still has shown himself to be a solid third baseman for them.

Frank Hankinson, Chicago White Stockings (0-23-.213-1) - For a career .202 hitter, he's certainly gotten a lot of big league at-bats. At least he's a good fielder at third base.

Arlie Latham, Buffalo Bisons (3-37-.271-32) - He has developed into one of the best young players on the Buffalo squad. A very good fielder as well, and he's still only 22 years old.

Fred Mann, Worcester Ruby Legs* (4-28-.224-1) - A relatively promising young man who'd probably be more at home in the outfield, he'll probably find a starting job with some team next season.

Fred Waterman, Cleveland Blues (1-39-.223-5) - He returned from a serious leg injury, but did not do well. Some suggest that at nearly 37 years old he might be washed up.

American Association

Ed Brown, St. Louis Brown Stockings (0-15-.173-0) - A complete disaster, he is very unlikely to see playing time in 1883.

Hick Carpenter, Pittsburgh Alleghenys (1-48-.308-0) - Came over in a midseason trade with Worcester, and was one of Pittsburgh's best hitters (.347) after the deal. They expect him to be one of their anchors for years to come.

Charlie Hodes, Cincinnati Red Stockings* (3-42-.219-1) - He hadn't played regularly in five years when Cincinnati rescued him from oblivion. Although he plans to test the open market, it seems unlikely that he'll find another team willing to give him the same chance.

Jim Holdsworth, Philadelphia Athletics* (0-37-.253-5) - He did a serviceable job with the last-place Athletics in 1882, but reportedly wants to play for a contending team.

Jimmy Say, Louisville Eclipse (3-77-.250-1) - This 19-year-old turned out to be somewhat better than expected, both at the plate and in the field. Has become a higher-profile player than his older brother Lou, who is a backup with Troy.

John Shetzline, Baltimore Orioles (0-39-.239-0) - This slick-fielding 29-year-old played rather well for a player with no previous experience.

And the awards for best third basemen of 1882 go to... CAP ANSON OF THE BOSTON RED CAPS in the National League, and HICK CARPENTER OF THE PITTSBURGH ALLEGHENYS in the American Association. This is Anson's tenth overall award (including five as a first baseman), and his fourth consecutive as the best third baseman. It is Carpenter's first award.

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)
1882 - NL - Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps (3-62-.330-17) / AA - Hick Carpenter, Worcester-Pittsburgh (1-48-.308-0)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - LEFT FIELD

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

National League

Abner Dalrymple, Cleveland Blues (2-34-.264-0) - Two years after being a viable MVH candidate, he put up extremely mediocre numbers. Should be in the prime of his career at age 25. Cleveland really needs him to find his hitting stroke in 1883.

Mike Dorgan, Boston Red Caps (1-29-.219-5) - He's just never really lived up to his potential. Boston has given him several years to try to find his hitting stroke, but it might be time to find another option in the outfield.

Charlie Eden, Chicago White Stockings* (1-41-.265-0) - He did a solid job for Chicago in his contract year, but evidently the team has decided it's in rebuilding mode and doesn't need to resign him.

Pete Gillespie, Troy Trojans* (0-25-.237-0) - A utility outfielder who got the first starting role of his career out of necessity. Look for him to latch on somewhere as a fourth outfielder.

Charley Jones, Providence Grays (7-47-.280-2) - He had a career year in his contract season, and was rewarded with a big four-year extension from Providence. He'll be worth it if he can maintain this level of production.

Steve King, Detroit Wolverines* (1-21-.183-0) - At age 40, he was asked to be a starter, and clearly wasn't up to the challenge. Look for him to retire in the offseason.

Ed Swartwood, Buffalo Bisons (0-33-.296-0) - He went down with a shoulder injury in August, but until then was one of Buffalo's best hitters. Looks like he has a promising future.

George Wood, Worcester Ruby Legs* (1-38-.216-0) - He simply hasn't lived up to his billing. It will be interesting to see how long whatever new team he lands with will wait for him to develop.

American Association

Jud Birchall, Philadelphia Athletics (0-46-.275-0) - A decent hitter and outfielder, he was one of the few worthwhile position players for Philadelphia.

Tom Brown, Baltimore Orioles (2-50-.323-0) - This 22-year-old rookie was a pleasant surprise, and might have been a big story in the American Association if not for Browning overshadowing the rest of the league.

Mike Hooper, Pittsburgh Alleghenys* (3-39-.238-0) - Career backup who did an adequate job as a stopgap starter for Pittsburgh. Still, the team plans to go in another direction next season.

Leech Maskrey, Louisville Eclipse (0-31-.278-1) - He actually split time with Browning in left, as Louisville shuttled their star back and forth between left and center. He wasn't a bad rookie in his own right.

Redleg Snyder, Cincinnati Red Stockings (0-9-.189-0) - A decent outfielder, but an absolute zero at the plate. Don't look for him to remain a starter for long.

Al Thake, St. Louis Brown Stockings* (1-54-.268-13) - This veteran recharged his career with a decent year out west in St. Louis. Reportedly, he's looking to turn that into a new contract with a contending National League club. Detroit, perhaps?

And the awards for best left fielder of 1882 go to... CHARLEY JONES OF THE PROVIDENCE GRAYS in the National League, and TOM BROWN OF THE BALTIMORE ORIOLES in the American Association. For both players, this is their first award, and it is also the first season in which Dalrymple has failed to win it.

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)
1882 - NL - Charley Jones, Providence Grays (7-47-.280-2) / AA - Tom Brown, Baltimore Orioles (2-50-.323-0)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - CENTER FIELD

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

National League

Buttercup Dickerson, Worcester Ruby Legs* (2-42-.281-0) - Not a strong fielder, but he is a very good hitter who shouldn't have any trouble finding a new home in the offseason.

"Hartford Jack" Farrell, Troy Trojans* (0-36-.266-0) - Farrell is no star, but he's a consistently good performer and will probably find several teams after his services this offseason.

George Gore, Chicago White Stockings (1-33-.290-0) - This 25-year-old is one of the players Chicago hopes to use as the centerpiece of a rebuilding project.

Ned Hanlon, Cleveland Blues (0-39-.219-0) - Hanlon went from being one of the league's promising young hitters to being a scapegoat in Cleveland's fall from grace. They need him to break out of this season-long slump.

Pete Hotaling, Detroit Wolverines (6-64-.318-1) - After a terrible 1881, Hotaling rebounded in a huge way and was one of the big reasons Detroit was a pennant contender in 1882.

Frank McCarton, Providence Grays (1-23-.246-2) - The veteran outfielder had by far the worst season of his career. He doesn't need to be the perennial .300 hitter he was in the mid-1870s, but he's going to have to improve somewhat to remain a force in the National League.

John O'Rourke, Boston Red Caps (2-40-.289-0) - The good news: this 33-year-old rediscovered his hitting stroke in 1882. The bad news: he went down with a season-ending injury in mid-August.

Hardy Richardson, Buffalo Bisons (1-43-.277-0) - Dropped off a little from his outstanding 1881 campaign, but was still one of the better players on the Buffalo squad.

American Association

Art Allison, Pittsburgh Alleghenys* (0-46-.218-1) - Troy contended this veteran outfielder was washed up last season and allowed him to sign with the new league. Looks like Troy was right.

Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse (5-62-.403-11) - Well, he's not a very good fielder in center. That's about the only bad thing to say about Browning, who dominated the American Association and led the Eclipse to the first AA pennant.

Paul Hines, St. Louis Brown Stockings (3-47-.288-10) - This power hitter did a solid job in the first year of his huge contract with St. Louis, and looks like he could become someone they'll build around.

Henry Luff, Cincinnati Red Stockings* (2-38-.245-3) - He's been kicking around the fringes of the big leagues for years now, and finally got a starting opportunity. While he wasn't a complete zero with the bat, he's a very poor fielder who wasn't resigned by Cincinnati for 1883.

John Mansell, Philadelphia Athletics (1-39-.283-0) - He's the third member of the Mansell family to make the big leagues as an outfielder, and he's had the best success of the three as well. Both his brothers are free agents this offseason - could we see an all-Mansell outfield in Philly next year?

Count Sensenderfer, Baltimore Orioles (2-34-.237-2) - This longtime veteran is no star, but he's been a steady performer for several different teams over the years. The new league will likely extend his career by a few more seasons.

And the awards for best center fielder of 1882 go to... PETE HOTALING OF THE DETROIT WOLVERINES in the National League, and PETE BROWNING OF THE LOUISVILLE ECLIPSE in the American Association. Both were relatively obvious choices, and both win the award for the first time.

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)
1882 - NL - Pete Hotaling, Detroit Wolverines (6-64-.318-1) / AA - Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse (5-62-.403-11)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

HITTERS BY POSITION - RIGHT FIELD

(asterisked players will be free agents this offseason)

National League

George Bechtel, Cleveland Blues (0-29-.218-4) - A dismal year for this 33-year-old. He holds a contract option for 1883, which he will presumably exercise - he won't get a big contract on the open market after a year like this.

King Kelly, Detroit Wolverines (2-36-.252-8) - A couple years ago he looked to be on the verge of stardom. Now he's heading into what should be the prime of his career, but no longer looks like a superstar.

Fred Lewis, Boston Red Caps (2-48-.243-4) - This 23-year-old isn't a favorite of the scouts, but he had an adequate season in right for the pennant-winning Red Caps.

Tom Mansell, Troy Trojans* (0-21-.239-0) - He's the oldest and most experienced of the three Mansell brothers, though he's not really a great starter for a good team. Look for him to be a fourth outfielder somewhere next year.

Levi Meyerle, Chicago White Stockings* (1-35-.260-1) - This 37-year-old veteran was moved from third base to right field as his range started to decline. However, he was a .300 hitter two years ago, so he should have some teams willing to sign him as a free agent.

Tom Poorman, Buffalo Bisons (1-37-.158-26) - He's fast and he fields his position well, but none of that is going to matter if he doesn't learn to hit a little better. A complete disaster at the plate in 1882.

Joe Sommer, Providence Grays (3-43-.256-10) - This young player was surprisingly good for Providence. Not a household name, but had a better year than several outfielders who are.

Harry Stovey, Worcester Ruby Legs* (5-41-.282-4) - He struggled with injuries in 1882, but is still one of the best young outfielders in the game. He'll be highly sought-after this offseason.

American Association

John Clapp, Baltimore Orioles* (1-37-.238-3) - This veteran was not rewarded with a new contract with Baltimore, although he did an adequate job for them in the team's first season.

Jerry Dorgan, Philadelphia Athletics (0-24-.301-0) - He came over in mid-season in a controversial player swap with the National League's Worcester Ruby Legs, and ended up being one of Philadelphia's best players. He will probably be someone they build around.

Harry McCaffery, St. Louis Brown Stockings (0-47-.265-0) - Young McCaffery did a solid job in his first professional season, and looks like he's earned a starting spot in the Gateway City for years to come.

Bill Morgan, Pittsburgh Alleghenys (0-29-.209-1) - He had a full-time job in 1882 only because there were six new teams. Don't expect this to continue.

Lip Pike, Cincinnati Red Stockings (2-37-.253-10) - At age 37, he is no longer a star, but he was popular in Cincinnati nevertheless and wasn't a bad right fielder.

Chicken Wolf, Louisville Eclipse (0-37-.314-0) - This 20-year-old missed time with a muscle tear, but still had an outstanding rookie season for the pennant-winners in Louisville.

And the awards for best right fielder of 1882 go to... HARRY STOVEY OF THE WORCESTER RUBY LEGS in the National League, and CHICKEN WOLF OF THE LOUISVILLE ECLIPSE in the American Association. Neither of these young players have ever won this award before.

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)
1882 - NL - Harry Stovey, Worcester Ruby Legs (5-41-.282-4) / AA - Chicken Wolf, Louisville Eclipse (0-37-.314-0)

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

The 1882 Silver Slugger Awards by position:

National League

C - "Orator Jim" O'Rourke, Chicago White Stockings (fourth overall win)
1B - Dan Brouthers, Troy Trojans (fourth consecutive win)
2B - Ross Barnes, Boston Red Caps (seventh consecutive win; eleventh overall)
SS - Jack Glasscock, Cleveland Blues (second consecutive win)
3B - Cap Anson, Boston Red Caps (ninth consecutive win; tenth overall)
LF - Charley Jones, Providence Grays (first win)
CF - Pete Hotaling, Detroit Wolverines (first win)
RF - Harry Stovey, Worcester Ruby Legs (first win)

American Association

C - Ed Whiting, Baltimore Orioles (first win)
1B - Charlie Comiskey, St. Louis Brown Stockings (first win)
2B - Bid McPhee, Cincinnati Red Stockings (first win)
SS - Bill Gleason, St. Louis Brown Stockings (first win)
3B - Hick Carpenter, Worcester-Pittsburgh (first win)
LF - Tom Brown, Baltimore Orioles (first win)
CF - Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse (first win)
RF - Chicken Wolf, Louisville Eclipse (first win)

And the Gold Glove Awards by position:

National League

P - Charlie Sweeney, Providence Grays (first win)
C - Tom Barlow, Troy Trojans (second win; first at catcher)
1B - John Reilly, Detroit Wolverines (first win)
2B - Andy Leonard, Providence Grays (second win)
SS - John Bass, Chicago White Stockings (third win)
3B - Arlie Latham, Buffalo Bisons (second win)
LF - Charley Jones, Providence Grays (second win)
CF - Hardy Richardson, Buffalo Bisons (third win)
RF - George Bechtel, Cleveland Blues (sixth win)

American Association

P - John "Lefty" McMullin, Pittsburgh Alleghenys (third win)
C - Eddie Fusselback, St. Louis Brown Stockings (first win)
1B - Charlie Comiskey, St. Louis Brown Stockings (first win)
2B - Bid McPhee, Cincinnati Red Stockings (first win)
SS - Wally Goldsmith, Pittsburgh Alleghenys (first win)
3B - Jimmy Say, Louisville Eclipse (first win)
LF - Al Thake, St. Louis Brown Stockings (second win)
CF - Art Allison, Pittsburgh Alleghenys (first win)
RF - John Clapp, Baltimore Orioles (second win; first in right field)

[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
1882 - NL - Charlie Sweeney, Providence Grays / AA - John "Lefty" McMullin, Pittsburgh Alleghenys

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
1882 - NL - Tom Barlow, Troy Trojans / AA - Eddie Fusselback, St. Louis Brown Stockings

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
1882 - NL - John Reilly, Detroit Wolverines / AA - Charlie Comiskey, St. Louis Brown Stockings

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
1882 - NL - Andy Leonard, Providence Grays / AA - Bid McPhee, Cincinnati Red Stockings

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
1882 - NL - John Bass, Chicago White Stockings / AA - Wally Goldsmith, Pittsburgh Alleghenys

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
1882 - NL - Arlie Latham, Buffalo Bisons / AA - Jimmy Say, Louisville Eclipse

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
1882 - NL - Charley Jones, Providence Grays / AA - Al Thake, St. Louis Brown Stockings

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
1882 - NL - Hardy Richardson, Buffalo Bisons / AA - Art Allison, Pittsburgh Alleghenys

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
1882 - NL - George Bechtel, Cleveland Blues / AA - John Clapp, Baltimore Orioles

[Eckstein 4 Prez]

Rookie of the Year Award - Nominees

National League

Hugh "One Arm" Daily, Buffalo Bisons - RHP (15-10, 2.47) - This rather disagreeable young man looks like he could become a star pitcher for the Buffalo club.

John Irwin, Worcester Ruby Legs - SS-3B (1-21-.243-4) - Unfortunately, this 21-year-old was forced to replace his own brother in the lineup, as older brother Arthur succumbed to a career-threatening injury midway through the year. Nevertheless, he stepped in and did a solid job.

Mike Muldoon, Cleveland Blues - OF-IF (2-29-.221-0) - This versatile utility man did a solid job for Cleveland in 1882, and made a compelling case for more playing time in 1883.

John Schappert, Cleveland Blues - RHP (12-10, 2.49) - At age 28, he's not a typical rookie, but he had a solid season for the Blues nevertheless.

Sam Wise, Detroit Wolverines - SS-2B (1-41-.271-11) - This 25-year-old middle infielder was a solid hitter and a very good fielder this year, and helped the Wolverines come very close to their first pennant ever.

American Association

Tom Brown, Baltimore Orioles - OF (2-50-.323-0) - In most years, his rookie season would be all the talk of base ball, but this year he was overshadowed by an even better outfielder.

Pete Browning, Louisville Eclipse - OF (5-62-.403-11) - A season for the ages for this young man. He could be base ball's big star for years to come.

Bert Dorr, St. Louis Brown Stockings - RHP (24-13, 2.22) - One of St. Louis' two great rookie pitchers who kept them near the top of the standings all season.

Jumbo McGinnis, St. Louis Brown Stockings - RHP (18-10, 1.59) - The other half of the amazing pitching duo in St. Louis.

Ed Whiting, Baltimore Orioles - C (0-48-.326-0) - A great season, and a very unexpected one. If he can maintain anything close to this level of play he'll be a star for years to come.

And the 1882 Rookies of the Year are.... HUGH DAILY in the National League, and PETE BROWNING in the American Association. Browning was a unanimous choice, while Sam Wise finished a close second in the NL. Both Daily and Browning seem to have superstar potential; indeed, Browning already looks like a superstar.

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
1882 - NL - Hugh Daily, Buffalo / AA - Pete Browning, Louisville

[CONN CHRIS]

I still enjoy this Eck!

To join our interests for a moment:

John L Sullivan in 1914 on Baseball in this era.

"In many respects I do not think baseball of to-day is any better than it was thirty years ago. It has improved in finesse, of course, but I do not think it can boast of any more skillful individual stars. I still think Charley Radbbourne the greatest of pitchers, and I would like to see a better catcher than Buck Ewing, Charley Bennett, or the famous King Kelly."

http://query.nytimes.com/mem/archive...649C946596D6CF