George Wright
From BR Bullpen
Note: This page links to George Wright, the Hall of Fame infielder and manager. For the outfielder who played from 1982 to 1986, see click here.
George Wright
- Bats Right, Throws Right
- Weight 150 lb.
- Debut May 5, 1871
- Final Game October 2, 1882
- Born January 28, 1847 in New York, NY USA
- Died August 21, 1937 in Boston, MA USA
Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1937
[edit] Biographical Information
"(He covers) more ground than any other player in the country." - a New York newspaper, about George Wright
George Wright was an early baseball star who played cricket and then moved to baseball in 1863. He later recalled that he had seen his first baseball game in 1857 at the Elysian Fields in New Jersey. Already a big star by 1869, he became part of the legendary 1869 Cincinnati Red Stockings team.
He then played in the new National Association and in the new National League. He managed one year (1879) and won the pennant.
He was an excellent player during the years of the National Association, playing for the Boston Red Stockings, which usually won the pennant.
Elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame on December 7, 1937 by the Centennial Commission.
Brother of Harry Wright and Sam Wright, he was twelve years younger than Harry, but was a teammate at times of each.
After his baseball days, he ran a sporting goods house.
He was also instrumental in establishing golf in the U.S., and was called "the father of American golf" when he died. Two sons became golf champions.
He is believed to be only player to play both major league baseball and first-class cricket.[1]. [2]
[edit] Notable Achievements
- 4-time League At Bats Leader (1873/NA, 1875/NA, 1876/NL & 1877/NL)
- NA Triples Leader (1874)
- 100 Runs Scored Seasons: 1 (1875)
- NL Pennants: 1 (1879)
- Baseball Hall of Fame: Class of 1937
