
Born in Saccarappa in 1857 (there is discrepancy in his birth year and place, depending on which reference you read). He played for S.D. Warren paper mill team where he was known for his hitting…reportedly blasting a homer 450 feet. He played for New England League and the New Bedford Whalers, batting .324. He was offered $1,200 by the Chicago White Stocking, later the Cubs, but became the first holdout for more money. He asked for $2,500 but settled for $1,900.
In 1880 he lead the National League with a .360 average becoming 1st Mainer to ever win a batting championship. Set a League record by stealing 7 bases in one game. He was traded to New York Giants in 1887 and helped to win them pennants in ’88 & ‘89. He was considered the Babe Ruth of his era.
In 1880 he lead the National League with a .360 average becoming 1st Mainer to ever win a batting championship. Set a League record by stealing 7 bases in one game. He was traded to New York Giants in 1887 and helped to win them pennants in ’88 & ‘89. He was considered the Babe Ruth of his era.
Description courtesy of the Westbrook Historical Society.