MLB History: Top 100 Players In Baseball History (100-91)
By David Hill
100. Old Hoss Radbourn
Brief note about myself – I grew up in Rhode Island, and became obsessed with the Providence Grays when I learned of their existence. After all, with Rhode Island being the smallest state in the Union, and one that people forget exists, the idea that major league baseball was played in Providence was enough to fuel my current fascination with 1880’s baseball.
During that era, there may have been no finer pitcher than Old Hoss Radbourn. While his career numbers are certainly solid, as he had a 309-196 record, 2.68 ERA and a 1.149 WHiP, striking out 1830 batters during a time when high contact rates were the norm.
Radbourn’s greatest season, and perhaps the best season ever in MLB history came during 1884. That year, he had a 59-12 record, completing all 73 of his starts, while recording saves in his other two appearances. He struck out 441 batters against 98 walks in 678.2 innings, while recording a 1.38 ERA and a 0.922 WHiP. That season culminated with the Grays winning the 1884 version of the World Series in three games, as Radbourn was 3-0 with a 0.00 ERA and a 0.500 WHiP, striking out 17 batters without a walk in 22 innings.
Radbourn was also an interesting character, as were quite a few players during that era. He lost an eye due to a gun accident after his career, and was known for his temper and womanizing ways. Radbourn may also be the first person ever photographed flipping off the camera, as can be seen here in the 1886 Boston Beaneaters team photograph.
These days, Radbourn may be best known for the Twitter account bearing his name, or his enjoyment of alcohol, women and violence. However, he was also an excellent pitcher, and the best of his time.
Next: The forgotten Dodgers ace