MLB Forgotten Greats: Remembering Pete Browning
One of the best hitters in the 1880s, Pete Browning was the original Louisville Slugger. Born on this day in 1861, Browning is also of the forgotten greats in MLB history.
During the early days of baseball, it had quite the reputation issue. The game was considered a refuge of ruffians and scallywags, not the place for a civilized or well standing gentleman. Nonetheless, despite his background as having come from a wealthy family, all Pete Browning wanted to do was to be a baseball player.
After spending four years as a semi-pro player in the Louisville area, he got his first chance in MLB in the 1882 season. Originally an infielder with the Louisville Eclipse, who later became the Colonels, Browning proved to be a weapon immediately. His .378/.430/.510 batting line led the American Association in all three categories. Browning also had five homers and 17 doubles, finishing second in both categories.
He continued his dominant play with Louisville over the first six seasons. He won two batting titles, and in 1887, had a .402 batting average, 220 hits, 118 RBI and 103 steals, although he did not lead the league in any of those categories. Browning moved to the Player’s League in 1890, and led the league with 40 doubles and a .373 batting average.
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Browning spent his final four seasons in the National League, but was not the same player he once was. He had become deaf due to mastoiditis, causing Browning to become an alcoholic. He was also considered an eccentric, and even feeble minded, being. Yet, there was no denying his skill on the diamond. He finished his career with a .341/.403/.467 batting line, hitting 295 doubles and stealing 466 bases. Browning’s 163 OPS+ ranks 13th all time.
Eventually, after his playing days, Browning was committed to an insane asylum, where he passed away at age 44. In addition to his mastoiditis, Browning was also suffering from cancer, cirrhosis of the liver, brain damage, and insanity brought on by syphilis.
One of the top hitters of his era, Browning has yet to receive the ultimate honor of being inducted into the Hall of Fame. His career ended over 40 years before the Hall was dedicated, and there has been a bit of a bias against his statistics, as they were accomplished primarily in the American Association. Yet, no one can argue that he was still amongst the best hitters of his time.
Next: Pete Rose denied entry to Hall of Fame ballot
One of the forgotten stars from MLB’s early days, Pete Browning was one of the great hitters of his time. Unfortunately, his career has yet to receive the attention it deserves.