Sports History

Basketball jerseys are more than just fabric; they're a canvas for legends. From the iconic number 23 of Michael Jordan to the electrifying number 32 of Magic Johnson, jersey numbers carry the weight of history and ignite passionate debates. But who truly reigns supreme for each digit?

This series embarks on a thrilling journey to crown the ultimate jersey king for every number in NBA history. We'll delve into the archives, analyze statistics, relive iconic moments, and spark friendly arguments (because let's be honest, basketball fans love a good debate!)

Prepare to be surprised! Uncover hidden gems who dominated their era, witness legendary battles between titans of the game for a single number's legacy, and reminisce about the iconic players who made their jersey numbers synonymous with greatness.

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The Pittsburgh Pirates, established in 1882, carry a rich history interwoven with other teams that eventually merged or transitioned to become what we know today. Let's explore these fascinating predecessors:

Allegheny Base Ball Club (1882-1886):

-Founding fathers of Pittsburgh professional baseball, competing in the American Association.

-Short-lived but impactful, their early success paved the way for the Pirates' emergence.

-Notable players: Cap Anson, Hardy Richardson.


Pittsburgh Alleghenys (1886-1890):

-Formed from the Allegheny Base Ball Club and joined the National League.

-Won the 1890 championship, the city's first major professional sports title.

-Notable players: Dan Brouthers, Deacon White.


Pittsburgh Pirates (1891-present):

-Rebranded following financial struggles, adopting the iconic "Jolly Roger" logo.

-Won five World Series titles (1909, 1925, 1960, 1971, 1979) and boast numerous Hall of Famers.

-Embody resilience and a passionate fan base, weathering periods of success and struggle.

Other notable mergers and transitions:

-The Pittsburgh Burghers (1890-1891) briefly existed before merging with the Alleghenys.

-Several minor league teams, like the Pittsburgh Stogies and Pittsburgh Rebels, played key roles in developing players and contributing to the city's baseball culture.

This journey through various names and teams emphasizes the rich tapestry of Pittsburgh baseball. Each era added its own chapter to the story, with successes and challenges shaping the Pirates' identity and building a devoted fan base that continues to bleed black and gold with unwavering passion.

A look at the major League Teams that called the City of Pittsburgh and its surrounding towns home. The Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Alleghenies, Homestead Grays, Pittsburgh Crawfords, and more. MLB Pittsburgh

Baseball jerseys hold a curious power. They're not just fabric, but identifiers, threads woven into the tapestry of the game's history. Number 12, a seemingly ordinary number, has graced the backs of some extraordinary players. This series delves into the careers of these legends, a diverse group united by their talent and the shared legacy of number 12.

We'll explore the exploits of offensive juggernauts who launched towering home runs, defensive wizards who controlled the game from behind the plate, and even the occasional pitching ace who defied expectations. But statistics and accolades are just the beginning. We'll peel back the layers, revealing the personalities that brought these jerseys to life. We'll delve into their clutch moments, the signature plays that etched their names in memory, and the unique stories that shaped their journeys.

From the early days of the game, when number 12 might have belonged to a forgotten outfielder, to the modern era, where it adorns the backs of some of the most recognizable stars, this series will span generations. Prepare to be surprised by the unexpected names you encounter, as well as reacquainted with the established heroes.

So, whether you're a baseball aficionado or simply curious about the game's rich history, join us as we celebrate the unique fraternity of players who wore number 12.

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The St. Louis Cardinals, with their storied history and passionate fanbase, boast a complex and fascinating origin story. While their current name evokes an image of red birds, their journey began with different colors and identities. Let's delve into the roots of this iconic franchise:

Early Beginnings (1875-1881):

-1875: St. Louis' first professional baseball team, the Brown Stockings, entered the National Association (NA).

-1876: Upon NA's dissolution, they joined the newly formed National League, finishing third in their debut season.

-Early Success: Despite financial struggles, the Brown Stockings enjoyed early success, boasting future Hall-of-Famers like George Sisler and Bid McPhee.

-Game-Fixing Scandal: Unfortunately, the team was expelled from the league in 1882 due to a game-fixing scandal, leaving a stain on their early legacy.


Second Act and New League (1882-1899):

-1882: Chris von der Ahe, a local beer baron, formed a new team, the St. Louis Browns, joining the American Association.

-Dominant Dynasty: The Browns dominated the AA, winning four consecutive pennants (1885-1888) and establishing themselves as a powerhouse.

-League Merging: Following the AA's dissolution in 1891, the Browns joined the National League.

-Struggles and Rebranding: Despite early success, the team struggled in the NL, prompting a name change to the Perfectos in 1899.
Birth of the Cardinals (1899-present):

-1899: A sportswriter coined the nickname "Cardinals" after a fan's comment about the team's jersey color. The name stuck, becoming the franchise's official moniker.

-Early 20th Century: While sporadic success continued, the Cardinals faced numerous ownership changes and financial instability.

-Branch Rickey Era (1917-1925): Branch Rickey, known for his innovative management style, ushered in a new era. He drafted Rogers Hornsby, sparking a winning streak and laying the foundation for future success.

World Series Champions and Beyond:

-1926: The Cardinals captured their first World Series title, marking a turning point in their history.

-Continued Success: They went on to win 10 more World Series championships, solidifying their status as one of baseball's most prestigious franchises.

-Enduring Legacy: Today, the Cardinals remain a baseball powerhouse, boasting loyal fans and a rich history intertwined with the city of St. Louis.

Remember, this is just a brief overview. Stay tuned for deeper dives into specific eras, iconic players, and the ongoing evolution of the St. Louis Cardinals

The St. Louis Cardinals also played as St. Louis Perfectos St. Louis Browns and St. Louis Brown Stockings

As a young man his talent at playing baseball inspired the Pittsburgh Pirates to sign him in 1944. Al was traded from the Pirates to the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947 and is most famous for his spectacular catch of a drive off the bat of the New York Yankees' Joe DiMaggio in Game 6 of the 1947 World Series.

It is no secret that the Los Angeles Dodgers resulted from the Brooklyn Dodgers packing up shop and migrating west for greener pastures in 1958. What many may need to learn is that the moniker of Dodgers was the shortened version of a term about their fan's commute to the ballpark. Yes, 1896, according to the MLB's website, spectators had to cross many streetcar tracks to get into the stadium to watch games. The team noticed this and called themselves the Brooklyn Trolley-Dodgers. An outdated term for the late 19th century in reference to the Brooklyn borough's pedestrians who avoided the streetcars in the city that were so prevalent for public transport at that time. Eventually, the name was indeed condensed to simply Dodgers.

Were you aware that this was not the first name of the Brooklyn ballclub? In 1883, according to legend and archives, they were launched as the Brooklyn Atlantics, which they adopted from an earlier ballclub that failed to survive. The franchise pointed to the 1884 season when the nine of the Borough took the field as the Brooklyn Grays because of the color of their uniforms, a gray button-down with the word Brooklyn stitched vertically down the center. It was common practice back in the day to adopt the name of your team colors.

The MLB then states that the name was changed in 1888 again to the Brooklyn Bridegrooms after eight roster members married that season. A post on the LA Dodger Talk website blog says that the Bridegroom's playing shirts were photographed with collars on them and laced up the front ending in what looks like a string tie. 1891, it morphed again into the Ward's Wonders soon after John Montgomery Ward took over as the club's managing partner. With the management change in 1893, the team had folks calling them the Foutz's Fillies, named after Dave Foutz's tenure managing the Brooklyn Nine.

Still then, a few seasons later in the 20th-Century, the team garnered the moniker of the Brooklyn Superbas. This had an interesting connection. Ned Hanlon took over as the team's field manager. A famous vaudeville act was touring named "Superba," and the Hanlon Brothers produced it. Ned Hanlon was not known to be related to the brothers or their stage production other than in name association only. Well, it stuck in the press and with fans everywhere, and the team name was famous as the Superbas for a few years, even though on the books, they were officially still the Dodgers. In 1910, the team sported a solid-colored uni with a vertical button cover flap overlay with the word Brooklyn neatly sewn.

The sixteen-year run of Wilbert Robinson as club manager that started in 1915 led to the secondary nickname of the Brooklyn Robins. In years after that, the fans of the Dodgers endeared a series of names like "the Flock," the "Bums," and "Dem Bums." These came about from some cartoon images produced by famed artist William Mullin. Of course, if someone outside of the Brooklyn Fandon circle would call the bums, it was fighting words, but inhouse, it showed the love and support of their followers. In 1916, the uniform shirts of these teams often were solid gray or a grid of pinstripes or plaid design with a large "B" on the left chest area. During WWI, the B was replaced with a patriotic and appropriate American flag supporting the troops overseas. The name "Dodgers" was first sewn on the players' uniforms in 1933, and the famous Brooklyn "B" was moved to the right sleeve. Many times for road games in the coming years, the word "Brooklyn" replaced the "Dodgers" name on the front chest of players.
As for the color of "Dodger Blue," that is an interesting story all its own.

The reference is not to the particular color the team wore, as many may believe. No, the term came to be a few decades ago when former Brooklyn player and LA manager Tommy Lasorda claimed that he bled Dodger blue. In 1989, an azure shade was added to the official color database, and it is this Dodger Blue that is plastered all over Dodger Stadium, incorporated into the team gear and on team memorabilia and fanfare.

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The Los Angeles Dodgers also played as LA Dodgers, Brooklyn Dodgers, Brooklyn Robins, Brooklyn Superbas, Brooklyn Bridegrooms, Brooklyn Grooms, Brooklyn Grays, and Brooklyn Atlantics

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Ted Williams, nicknamed "The Splendid Splinter" for his lanky physique and graceful swing, carved his name in baseball history not just with statistics, but with a singular dedication to hitting excellence. His 19-year career, spent entirely with the Boston Red Sox, was a masterclass in controlled aggression and a testament to his unwavering passion for the game.

A Prolific Hitter and Triple Crown Winner:

Williams' offensive prowess was undeniable. He holds a career batting average of .344, the highest of any qualified player in the post-dead-ball era (after 1920). He led the American League in batting average six times, a feat surpassed only by Ty Cobb, and won the prestigious Triple Crown (leading the league in batting average, home runs, and RBIs) twice, in 1942 and 1947.

His pursuit of hitting perfection was legendary. In 1941, he achieved the unthinkable, batting .406, the last MLB player to hit over .400 in a single season. This accomplishment solidified his place among the game's greatest hitters and cemented his reputation as a hitting savant.

Beyond the Statistics:

Beyond his statistical dominance, Williams' impact went far deeper. He possessed a deep understanding of the art of hitting, meticulously studying pitchers and perfecting his swing. He was a fierce competitor, known for his intense focus and unwavering determination to succeed at the plate.

However, Williams' career was not without its challenges. He lost five prime years to serving in the United States Navy and Marine Corps during World War II, a sacrifice that undoubtedly impacted his career statistics and longevity. Additionally, his relationship with the Red Sox and the Boston media was often strained, with his blunt personality and outspoken nature creating friction at times.

A Complex Legacy and Enduring Impact:

Despite the complexities, Williams' legacy remains unquestioned. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1966, and his influence continues to inspire generations of players and fans alike. His passion for the game, his dedication to hitting perfection, and his place among the game's greatest hitters solidify his position as one of baseball's true legends, forever earning him the title of "The Splendid Splinter."

Ted Williams Becomes Last MLB Player To Hit .400
Born August 30, 1918, in San Diego, CA, was Baseball Hall of Fame outfielder Ted Williams.

Ted Williams wore the number 9 on the Boston Red Sox (1939-42 and after military service 1946-60) for 19 seasons as he batted 0.344 for his career, had a Base percentage of 0.634, with 521 career Home Runs.

William's nicknames included The Kid, Teddy Ballgame, Splendid Splinter or Thumper. Ted was Inducted as Player to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1966. He is one of the top MLB players to have worn the Jersey Number 9. MLB Number 9 Jersey

My favorite baseball team is the Pittsburgh Pirates. As a kid in the 1970s, there was plenty to cheer about with players like Willie Stargell, Roberto Clemente, Dave Parker, and sidewinding pitcher Kent Tekulve. I took it for granted that the team I loved had a cool swashbuckling name, the Pirates. As I get older, one of the questions arises: what is the affiliation with a buccaneer in a town with no coastline but only rivers? I dove into the research on it and found an exciting story that even includes my hometown of Erie, PA.


How Did the Pittsburgh Pirates Get Their Name?
Immediately, I realized that the Pirates did not start as the Pirates and technically did not even play in the City of Pittsburgh at their onset. By today's standards, they did play in Steeltown, but the area of the Burgh where their home games were was called something different. April 15, 1876, according to the MLB's official website, was the start of the ball club, known only as the Pittsburgh Alleghenys. Back then, the Burgh was two different municipalities: Pittsburgh south of the Rivers and, on what is now the North Side, the town of Allegheny City, Pennsylvania. The North Side is where Three Rivers Stadium was, and now PNC Park and Heinz Field stand today. It is also where pro football was first played when Pudge Heffelfinger was paid to play on the gridiron. Anyway, the Alleghenys also played ball on the rivers' northern side at Union Park. Since their home field was in the "metropolis" of Allegheny City, it was an easy naming choice for the team. Playing at first as an independent, they eventually joined a minor league for a year in 1877 called the International Association. It must not have worked so well because they disbanded after that season. A few years passed, and in 1882, the club reformed as the Alleghenys once again and joined the American Association of Baseball. They soon changed home venues to Recreation Park, where Pudge played, and jumped to a rival conference of teams known as the National League in 1887. Now, that association sounds familiar. Pittsburgh of the National League! The club's first game in the NL was on April 30, 1887, when they defeated the Chicago White Stockings, 6-2.



The 1882 Pittsburgh Alleghenys baseball club courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

That may have been the National League's highlight game for the first few years. The Allegheny was a dreadful product, finishing at least fifth place in the 8-team league. Now, that sounds familiar to us modern-day Pittsburgh baseball fans. It got so bad that in 1890, even the good players in the club decided to bail and go to other, more competitive squads. Many jumped to a new team, the Pittsburgh Burghers Club, and played in a start-up Player's League. The 1890 record of the Alleghenys was a dreadful 23-113, ugh! It didn't seem like it at the time, but things were about to change with the team's fortunes, and who would've thought it would get much better? First, the Players League folded after just one season, and the players who had left other leagues to join those clubs were expected to return to their previous teams in 1891.

The Alleghenys did see some returning players but also watched for other opportunities to improve. They had their eye keenly on second baseman Lou Bierbauer, who in 1889 played for the Philadelphia Athletics in the American Association before spending a year with the Brooklyn Ward's Wonders in the Players League in 1890. Bierbauer was a free agent, and being a student-athlete, almost everybody and their brother wanted his services on their team. One thing the Alleghenys had on their side was the prominent bonus realtors always claim, "Location, location, location!" Bierbauer lived in the offseason 100 miles due North in Erie, Pennsylvania. Yes, it is also the locale of your Sports Jersey and Pigskin Dispatch websites and podcasts.

So Allegheny's manager Ned Hanlon makes a beeline to Erie to start talking to Lou B. According to Sporting News founder Alfred Spink, in his 1910 book The National Game, Hanlon traveled to the Northwest corner of PA in the dead of winter. Take it from me; that is not a trip for the weary-hearted! Spinks says Hanlon had to cross a frozen harbor, which I will assume is Presque Isle Bay, and that Bierbauer may have lived on what is now Presque Isle State Park, an island at the time but has since been connected by a land bridge. The story says that Hanlon traveled to Bierbauer's shack during a bitter storm; the sought-after second baseman probably felt obliged to let the now-freezing NL manager into his how-to-warm by the fire. Hanlon was persistent with the opportunity and inked Bierbauer to his club before leaving.

The Philadelphia Athletics and the other members of the American Association were livid when they found out that they could not resign the star and accused Hanlon and the Alleghenys of utter "piracy" of their player. Probably to stick it to the A's a bit more, the Pittsburgh club adopted the moniker of the Pirates for the 1891 season and beyond. Quite a story indeed to get a nickname, and it had a lot to do with something I am pretty familiar with a winter storm in Erie, PA.

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Sports History | The origin story of the Reds, the first professional team in baseball history.