Sam Thompson
Inducted:
1974
Player Details
6-2, 207lb (188cm, 93kg)
Born:
March 5, 1860
Danville, Indiana, U.S.
Died:
November 7, 1922
Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
Position:
Right fielder
College:
NA
Sam Thompson was a prolific outfielder in the late 19th century, known for his remarkable power and run production. Over a 15-year MLB career, he compiled a .331 batting average, amassing 1,988 hits, 126 home runs, and 1,305 RBIs. Thompson set the single-season RBI record in 1887 with 166 RBIs in just 127 games, a record that stood until 1921.
In 1894, he set the record for most RBIs in a single month with 61 in August. He also led the league in home runs in 1889 and 1895. Thompson was a key figure in the Philadelphia Phillies' lineup, contributing significantly to their offensive success during his tenure.
His exceptional performance earned him a place in the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the game.
Thompson's Awards and Records:
- NL batting champion (1887)
- 2× NL home run leader (1889, 1895)
- 3× NL RBI leader (1887, 1894, 1895)
- Single-Season RBI Record: 166 RBIs in 1887 (127 games)
- Single-Month RBI Record: 61 RBIs in August 1894
MLB Records:
- First Player to Hit 20 Home Runs and Steal 20 Bases in a Season: 1889
- Set the single-season RBI record in 1887 with 166 RBIs in just 127 games
- Known for his exceptional power and run production during the late 19th century
MLB Teams:
Detroit Wolverines (1885–1888)
Philadelphia Quakers / Phillies (1889–1898)
Detroit Tigers (1906)
MLB Stats:
Seasons Played:
15 (1885–1906)
Games Played:
1,410
Batting Average:
.331
Hits:
1,988
Home Runs:
126
RBIs:
1,308
Runs Scored:
1,256
Stolen Bases:
229