MLB History: The 2000 RBI Club
By David Hill
Cap Anson
While Cap Anson had over 2000 RBI in his career, his inclusion on this list is still somewhat debated.
Anson’s first five seasons in the majors came in the National Association, the precursor to the National League. There were problems with that league however, as weaker teams would drop out in the middle of the season, and the NA was dominated by the Boston franchise. Yet, it was financially successful, proving that professional baseball could exist.
One of the biggest stars in the NA, Anson continued his dominance in the National League. He became the player/manager of the Cubs, or White Stockings as they were called then. Anson led the league in RBI eight times, and drove in 100 runs when he was 42 years old. Overall, in his 27 year career, he notched 2075 RBI, currently the fourth most in MLB history.
The biggest problem with that total is how the NA is regarded. Major League Baseball does not consider it a major league, leaving Anson with only his 1880 RBI accumulated during his time in the NL. Those 1880 RBI would leave Anson 12th all time, sandwiched between Willie Mays and Mel Ott.
Cap Anson did collect over 2000 RBI in his professional career. Nonetheless, his inclusion on this list is still a matter of controversy.