Albert Spalding

Albert Spalding was a foundational figure in the early days of baseball, both on and off the field. As a pitcher, he dominated the National Association and National League during the 1870s, leading the league in wins every season from 1871 to 1876.

Known for his pinpoint control and remarkable stamina, Spalding posted a career record of 252–65 with a staggering .795 winning percentage, one of the highest in MLB history.

After retiring at just 27, he played an even bigger role in shaping the sport. He co-founded the A.G. Spalding sporting goods company, which became a key supplier of baseball equipment. He also helped globalize baseball, organizing the 1888–89 world tour that introduced the game to audiences abroad.

He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939 as a pioneer of the game.

Spalding's Awards and Records

• Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame (1939)
• Led league in wins for six consecutive seasons (1871–1876)
• Helped found the National League in 1876
• Organized the 1888–89 global baseball tour
• Co-founder of Spalding Sporting Goods, official MLB supplier
• Advocate for standardizing baseball rules and equipment

MLB Records

• 4× NA pennant (1872–1875)
• NL pennant (1876)
• 6× Wins leader (1871–1876)
• Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame
• Career pitching record: 252 wins, 65 losses
• First pitcher to win 40+ games in four straight seasons

MLB Teams:
As Player

Boston Red Stockings (1871–1875)
Chicago White Stockings (1876–1878)

As Manager

Chicago White Stockings (1876–1877)

MLB Stats

Games Pitched
347
Games Started
325
Wins
252
Losses
65
Shutouts
6
Saves
13
Earned Run Average (ERA)
2.13
Strikeouts
248
At Bats
1,237
Hits
388
Batting Average
.313
Runs Scored
220
Runs Batted In (RBI)
338
On-Base Percentage (OBP)
.313