KING KELLY

Michael Joseph Kelly was one of the premier - and most flamboyant - players of the 19th century. Shortly after he began his career with the Cincinnati Reds, fans gave him the moniker “King of Baseball,” and he quickly became a national idol. A daring baserunner, Kelly, who stole at least 50 bases for four consecutive seasons, also prompted fans to coin the battle cry, “Slide, Kelly, Slide.” Chicago manager Cap Anson credited him with originating the hit-and-run play. Kelly was a handsome man who wore the finest tailored suits and supplemented his income with off-season stage appearances. In 1880, Kelly joined Cap Anson’s Chicago White Sox as a catcher-outfielder and sparked the team to five pennants. After capturing the batting crown in 1886, the colorful Kelly was sold to the Boston Beaneaters for a then-record $10,000.

G1456 AB5896 R1357 H1813 2B359 3B102 HR69 RBI950 AVE.308

Images courtesy of Dick Perez