Sports History

Born September 1, 1850, in East Bridgeport, Connecticut, was Baseball Hall of Fame Left Fielder, Jim O'Rourke. This legend, known by many as "Orator Jim" was the National League Home Run leader in 1880 with the Boston Red Caps and he also played with the New York Giants. Jim later served as the manager of the Buffalo Bisons 1881-84, and Washington Senators 1893. Though he left the MLB in 1893 he kept on playing until he was 50 years old in the minor league system.

Born December 11, 1854, in Rochester, New York, was Baseball Hall of Fame Pitcher and Right Fielder Charles "Old Hoss" Radbourn.

Charles Radbourn was a larger-than-life figure in the early days of baseball. He was a dominant pitcher, a prolific winner, and a source of endless fascination with his unorthodox routines and flamboyant personality.

Born to Pitch:

Born in Rochester, New York, in 1854, Radbourn displayed a natural talent for throwing from a young age. He honed his skills by repeatedly throwing a ball against a barn, strengthening his arm for the future challenges of professional baseball.

Early Success:

Radbourn made his major league debut in 1880 and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. He was known for his fastball, curveball, and exceptional control, which he attributed to his unconventional habit of chewing tobacco and rubbing it on the ball.

Record-Breaking Season:

Radbourn's most remarkable season came in 1884, when he won an astounding 59 games for the Providence Grays. This record stood for over 100 years and remains one of the most untouchable achievements in baseball history. He accomplished this feat by pitching a staggering 678 innings, a testament to his exceptional stamina and durability.

Unconventional Methods:

Radbourn was known for his quirky training methods and unorthodox approach to the game. He preferred to sleep in until noon, often arriving at the ballpark just moments before his scheduled start. He also had a reputation for enjoying a good drink, which some attributed to his occasional wildness on the mound.

Beyond Baseball:

Radbourn's life off the field was as colorful as his on-field exploits. He was a skilled hunter and fisherman, and he loved to gamble and tell stories. He also had a passionate side, volunteering his time to help the less fortunate.

Legacy:

Despite his eccentricities, Radbourn was a true pioneer of baseball. He helped shape the game with his innovative pitching style and his record-breaking achievements. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939, receiving recognition for his remarkable career.

Beyond Numbers:

Old Hoss Radbourn was more than just a baseball player. He was a symbol of an era, a larger-than-life personality who captured the imagination of fans and solidified his place as a true legend of the game. His story continues to inspire athletes and fans alike, reminding us that baseball is more than just statistics; it's about passion, dedication, and the thrill of the unexpected.
For more on Radbourn check out this Wikipedia bio:

James Francis Galvin, known to the world as "Pud," wasn't just a baseball player; he was a force of nature who redefined pitching greatness in the late 19th century. Nicknamed for his seemingly effortless ability to make hitters "look like pudding," Pud carved his legend with a fiery spirit, an innovative fastball, and a record-setting career that still resonates today.
Born in St. Louis in 1856, Galvin discovered his baseball calling early. Despite his diminutive stature (5'9"), he possessed a powerful arm and a knack for deception, weaving mesmerizing curves and spins that baffled even the best hitters of the era. His rise was meteoric, debuting at 18 and landing with the Buffalo Bisons in 1875.

Pud's talent was broader than pure power. He pioneered "scientific pitching," understanding the importance of location and deception over brute force. His trademark "fadeaway" delivery, where he shifted off the rubber while throwing, created an optical illusion that baffled hitters and made his fastball seem even faster.

Success followed Pud wherever he went. He racked up wins at an astonishing rate, leading the National League in multiple wins (1885, 1887, 1888, 1892). In 1888, he became the first player to reach 300 career wins, a feat that wouldn't be matched for over 20 years. But wins alone didn't define Pud's greatness. He was a fierce competitor known for his fiery temper and unwavering determination. He once said, "I would rather have one victory over Chicago than ten over any other club."

Galvin's impact on the game transcended statistics. He popularized the concept of the "control pitcher," proving that pinpoint accuracy could be just as effective as raw power. His influence on future generations of hurlers, including Cy Young and Christy Mathewson, is undeniable.

Pud's career wasn't without its shadows. He battled injuries, faced off-field controversies, and saw his win total eventually surpassed. Yet, his legacy remains. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1965, a testament to his immense talent and pioneering spirit.

Born December 2, 1847, in Caton, New York, was Baseball Hall of Fame Third Baseman Deacon White. This legend's claim to fame was that he was one of the first to throw right-handed but bat left-handed, which helped his Detroit Wolverines team win the 1887 World Series title. White also played stints with the Cleveland Forest Citys, Boston Red Stockings, Chicago White Stockings, Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati, Buffalo Bisons, and the Pittsburgh Pirates. During his two-decade career, White batted .312 and had more RBI (988) than any player except Cap Anson. Deacon was near the top of baseball's all-time leaders in career games when he retired from playing at-bats, hits, and total bases.

Born August 1, 1865, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, was Baseball Hall of Fame Second Baseman, Frank Grant. This legend played in the International League and was a pioneer during the early Negro leagues. Many consider Grant as the greatest African-American player of 19th century. Frank could do it all, and if playing today we would call him a power hitter. There were many instances of Grant leading his team and league in slugging and extra-base hits. He could also run like the wind, stealing numerous bases and covering more ground in the infield than perhaps anyone of his era, white or black. Grant played for the Meriden Silvermen team of the Eastern League, the Buffalo Bisons in the International League, and in the Negro Leagues his name was found in the line-ups of the Cuban Giants, New York Gorhams, Page Fence Giants, Cuban X-Giants, Philadelphia Giants, and the Brooklyn Royal Giants.

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The ThisDayinBaseball.com website provides dozens of June 17 events, including this beauty:
1880 - John Montgomery Ward throws a perfect game