The Red Stockings are often regarded as the pioneers of professional baseball in the United States. Known for their trailblazing role in the history of baseball, the Red Stockings made a significant impact on the sport by becoming the first openly professional team. Their story is rich with fascinating tales of athleticism, innovation, and the beginning of a new era in sports.
This article will explore the origins, history, and legacy of the Red Stockings, answering the most common questions people have about this remarkable team.
Origins of the Red Stockings
The Red Stockings were established in 1869 in Cincinnati, Ohio, making them the first professional baseball team in history. The team was organized by Harry Wright, a former cricketer and an early baseball player, who saw the potential for baseball to become a professional sport. Wright became both the manager and a player for the team, which was initially sponsored by the Cincinnati Base Ball Club.
The decision to go professional meant that the team members were paid for their performances, a groundbreaking move at the time. Prior to this, baseball was primarily played by amateur teams, and players were not compensated. The Red Stockings set out to change this by forming a team of talented players from across the country who were offered salaries to play exclusively for Cincinnati.
The 1869 Season: A Undefeated Streak
The Red Stocking’s’ debut season in 1869 was nothing short of spectacular. The team played 57 games and won all of them, finishing the season with a perfect record of 57-0. This incredible feat marked the beginning of the professional era of baseball and solidified the Red Stockings’ place in history. Their winning streak was not only a testament to the players’ skills and teamwork but also to Harry Wright’s innovative managerial style.
Wright was known for his strategic approach to the game, including positioning fielders based on the opposing team’s tendencies, developing pitching techniques, and emphasizing physical fitness among his players. These methods were revolutionary at the time and contributed to the Red Stockings’ dominance on the field.
Notable Players of the Red Stockings
Several players from the original Red Stocking’s team went on to have illustrious careers in baseball. Here are a few of the most notable members:
Harry Wright – As the manager and a player, Wright was the driving force behind the formation of the Red Stocking’s. He was known for his innovative strategies and leadership, which helped shape modern baseball.
George Wright – Harry’s younger brother, George Wright, was considered one of the best shortstops of his era. He was a key player for the Red Stocking’s and later became a successful businessman.
Asa Brainard – The team’s star pitcher, Brainard, was known for his powerful arm and accuracy. He was instrumental in maintaining the Red Stockings’ winning streak during their undefeated season.
Charlie Gould – A first baseman with exceptional fielding skills, Gould was one of the most popular players on the team and played a significant role in their success.
Doug Allison – The team’s catcher, Allison, was known for his tough and durable playing style. He was one of the first catchers to use a glove, which was uncommon in the early days of baseball.
The End of the Undefeated Streak
Despite their impressive performance in 1869, the Red Stockings’ undefeated streak came to an end in 1870. On June 14th, 1870, the Red Stockings lost to the Brooklyn Atlantics in an 11-inning game with a final score of 8-7. The loss was a significant event in baseball history, as it marked the first defeat for the team that had become synonymous with winning.
However, the team’s dominance continued throughout the season, and they maintained a strong record overall. Despite the end of the streak, the Red Stockings remained a formidable force in the baseball world, proving that professional teams could compete at a high level.
The Demise and Legacy of the Original Red Stockings
The original Red Stocking’s team disbanded in 1870 due to financial difficulties. Despite their success on the field, the team struggled to maintain financial stability. The lack of a formal league structure and inconsistent revenue from ticket sales contributed to the team’s demise.
However, the legacy of the Red Stocking’s lived on. Many of the original players went on to join other teams, and Harry Wright continued to influence the sport as a manager for several other professional teams. The Cincinnati Red Stocking is often credited with laying the foundation for the National League, which was established in 1876 and remains one of the two major professional baseball leagues in the United States today.
Rebirth as the Boston Red Stockings
After the Cincinnati team folded, many of the Red Stocking’s players, including Harry Wright, George Wright, and other key figures, moved to Boston, where they established a new team called the Boston Red Stockings in 1871. This team eventually became the Atlanta Braves, one of the oldest continuously operating professional sports franchises in the United States.
The move to Boston marked a new chapter for the Red Stockings, and they continued to build on their earlier success, winning multiple championships in the nascent National Association of Professional Base Ball Players (NA).
The Cincinnati Reds: Continuing the Tradition
The original Cincinnati Red Stockings laid the groundwork for the establishment of the Cincinnati Reds, a professional team that became part of the National League in 1890. The modern Cincinnati Reds honor the legacy of the original Red Stockings and continue to be a beloved team with a rich history in Major League Baseball.
FAQs
Why were the Red Stockings called the “first professional baseball team”?
The Red Stockings are considered the first professional baseball team because they were the first team to pay all of their players a salary to play baseball exclusively for the team. This move marked the beginning of professional baseball, differentiating them from other teams that were comprised of amateur players.
Who were some of the notable players on the original Red Stockings team?
Notable players on the original Red Stockings team included Harry Wright (manager and center fielder), George Wright (shortstop), Asa Brainard (pitcher), Charlie Gould (first baseman), and Doug Allison (catcher).
What was the Red Stockings’ record in their first season?
The Red Stocking’s finished their first season in 1869 with a perfect record of 57-0, becoming the first team in baseball history to complete an entire season undefeated.
Why did the original Red Stockings team disband?
The original Red Stockings team disbanded in 1870 due to financial difficulties. Despite their success on the field, the team struggled to maintain financial stability because of inconsistent revenue from ticket sales and the lack of a formal league structure.
What is the connection between the original Red Stocking’s and the modern Cincinnati Reds?
The modern Cincinnati Reds, established in 1890, are considered the spiritual successors of the original Cincinnati Red Stocking. They honour the legacy of the original team and continue to play professional baseball in the National League.
Did the Red Stockings set any important precedents in baseball?
Yes, the Red Stocking set several important precedents in baseball, including the concept of paying players a salary to play professionally, which helped establish the professional status of the sport. They also contributed to the development of baseball strategies, such as positioning fielders and focusing on physical fitness.
How did the Red Stockings’ undefeated streak end?
The Red Stocking’s undefeated streak ended on June 14th, 1870, when they lost to the Brooklyn Atlantics in an 11-inning game with a final score of 8-7. This was their first defeat after an impressive winning streak of 81 games over two seasons.
Conclusion
The Red Stocking holds a special place in the annals of baseball history as the pioneers of professional baseball in America. Their decision to pay players for their services marked a significant shift in the way the game was played and viewed, paving the way for the modern professional leagues we know today. Their undefeated season in 1869, innovative management style, and the eventual transition of many players to the Boston Red Stockings (now the Atlanta Braves) are all key elements that define their enduring legacy.
From their beginnings in Cincinnati to their influence on future baseball teams, the Red Stockings are remembered not only for their athletic achievements but also for their role in shaping the future of America’s favourite pastime.
To read more, Click here
Leave a Reply