Baseball History: Remembering Dan McGann

Dan McGann was one of the better fielding first basemen in the early days of baseball history. Unfortunately, his personal life was mired in tragedy, eventually resulting in his suicide at 39 years of age.

Born on this day in 1871, it took a bit of time before Dan McGann made an impact upon baseball history. He had a brief trial with the Boston Beaneaters in 1896, posting an impressive .322/.383/474 batting line with seven triples in his 43 games, as he filled in at second base. However, he made 21 errors in that time, leading to his return to the minors before returning to Boston in 1898.

That year, he established himself as the Beaneaters starting first baseman, with another excellent season. He had a .301/.404/.393 batting line, stealing 33 bases and showing solid power. Yet, he began to bounce around the league, playing on six different teams before finding a home with the New York Giants in 1902.

There, he became the close friend and drinking buddy of third baseman/manager John McGraw. He continued to showcase his excellent speed and power for the time, ranking in the top ten in steals twice. On May 27, 1904, McGann stole five bases in a game, establishing a National League record that he held until 1991. McGann was also an excellent defensive player, leading NL first basemen in fielding percentage six times, and routinely ranking in the top five in putouts and assists at first.

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However, McGann had quite a few issues in his personal history. A brother died of an accidental shooting, and two other siblings, a brother and sister, committed suicide. McGann became an alcoholic, and was known for his explosive temper and fighting. During a game on April 27, 1905, he slugged catcher Fred Abbott after an altercation at the plate. McGann was also suspended for fighting during the following year. In 1908, after being traded from the Giants, McGann fought his former friend McGraw due to comments that the Giants manager made about him to the press.

After the 1908 season, McGann was released by the Boston Doves, as the 37 year old was out of shape and unable to perform at his previous levels. He spent two more years in the minors, and was expected to continue playing in Pacific Coast League, or on a team closer to his Kentucky home, for the 1911 season.

Unfortunately, that plan would not come to pass. On December 13, 1910, McGann reportedly committed suicide as well, shooting himself in his hotel room. There were questions as to whether or not his death was a suicide, as his sisters refused to believe that determination. McGann had been reported to be in good spirits and health when seen earlier that day, and an expensive diamond ring that he was wearing had disappeared.

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Dan McGann was a star in the early days of baseball history. Yet, that success could not overcome his demons, leading to his untimely passing.