Professional baseball in the 19th century was defined by remarkable players whose skills and statistics laid the foundation for America’s pastime. Players in this era competed under challenging conditions, with less advanced equipment and rudimentary training methods, yet many still posted impressive numbers that would be notable even in later eras. Here are some of the best professional baseball players of the 19th century, along with their statistics and the teams they played on.
1. Cap Anson (Chicago White Stockings/Colts)
Adrian “Cap” Anson is often regarded as the first true superstar of professional baseball. Playing from 1871 to 1897, primarily with the Chicago White Stockings (now the Chicago Cubs), Anson was known for his incredible consistency as a hitter. He became the first player to achieve 3,000 hits, a milestone that wasn’t surpassed until decades later. Anson’s career batting average was an impressive .334, and he amassed 2,075 RBIs, a record at the time. He also hit 97 home runs, which was notable in the dead-ball era when homers were rare. As a manager and player, Anson led the White Stockings to five National League championships.
2. King Kelly (Chicago White Stockings, Boston Beaneaters)
Mike “King” Kelly was a charismatic and versatile player known for his hitting, base running, and innovation in strategy. Kelly’s baseball career began in 1878, and he played for teams such as the Chicago White Stockings and the Boston Beaneaters. He had a career batting average of .308 and was especially famous for his ability to steal bases, even pioneering strategies like the delayed steal. In 1886, Kelly led the National League in both batting average (.388) and runs scored (155), showcasing his prowess as a leadoff hitter. He was also known for his antics, which included distracting opposing players and calling his own plays, making him a fan favorite and a trailblazer for showmanship in the game.
3. Cy Young (Cleveland Spiders, St. Louis Perfectos)
Cy Young’s career spanned both the 19th and 20th centuries, but his impact in the 19th century was substantial. He began his career with the Cleveland Spiders in 1890 and later played for the St. Louis Perfectos (Cardinals) and the Boston Red Sox. Known for his powerful fastball and impeccable control, Young accumulated 511 career wins, still the all-time record in baseball. In the 1892 season alone, he posted a 1.93 ERA and had a 36-12 win-loss record. His dominance led to the eventual naming of the Cy Young Award, given annually to the best pitchers in the Major Leagues.
4. Hoss Radbourn (Providence Grays, Boston Beaneaters)
Charles “Old Hoss” Radbourn was a legendary pitcher known for his durability and iron will on the mound. In 1884, while playing for the Providence Grays, Radbourn had what is arguably the greatest pitching season in history. He won 59 games, a record that still stands, and completed 73 of his 75 starts with an ERA of 1.38. Over his career, he amassed 309 wins and 1,830 strikeouts. Radbourn’s 1884 season secured his place as one of the most dominant pitchers of the 19th century, and his achievements remain iconic.
5. Buck Ewing (New York Giants, Cincinnati Reds)
Buck Ewing is widely considered one of the best all-around players and one of the greatest catchers of the 19th century. Playing from 1880 to 1897, primarily with the New York Giants and later with the Cincinnati Reds, Ewing was known for his defensive skills behind the plate and his strong throwing arm. He also excelled as a hitter, posting a .303 career batting average with 883 RBIs. In 1883, Ewing hit .303 with 10 triples, which was rare power for a catcher in that era. His versatility allowed him to play other positions, and his influence on the field was unmatched, making him a cornerstone of early professional baseball.
6. Ed Delahanty (Philadelphia Quakers/Phillies, Cleveland Infants)
Ed Delahanty was one of the best hitters of his era, playing primarily for the Philadelphia Quakers (Phillies) and briefly with the Cleveland Infants. Over his career, Delahanty posted a .346 batting average, ranking him among the top hitters in baseball history. Known for his power, he led the league in batting multiple times and hit over .400 in three separate seasons. In 1899, he batted .410 with 55 doubles and 137 RBIs. Delahanty’s power hitting, including a five-home run game in 1896, made him one of the most feared batters in the 19th century.
7. Roger Connor (Troy Trojans, New York Giants**
Roger Connor, who played from 1880 to 1897, was the all-time home run leader before Babe Ruth, with 138 career homers—a staggering total in the dead-ball era. Connor, a left-handed slugger, played for teams including the Troy Trojans and the New York Giants, and he was known for his consistent hitting and power. He had a .316 career batting average, with 1,322 RBIs, and was a strong fielder at first base. His presence as a leader and his ability to hit for both average and power earned him a place as one of the top hitters of his generation.
These players were pioneers who set records, elevated the sport’s standards, and influenced how baseball is played and celebrated today. Their legacy remains evident, as many of their accomplishments continue to be celebrated and compared to modern players’ achievements.
