 Induction
Information
Elected to Hall of Fame by Veterans Committee in 1961, Player
Born: February 16, 1866, in Newark, New Jersey
Died: December 16, 1940, in Worcester, Massachusetts
ML Debut: 7/31/1888
Primary Position: Center Fielder
Bats: L Throws: R
Played For: Kansas City Cowboys (1888-1889), Philadelphia
Phillies (1890-1895), Boston Beaneaters (1896-1901)
Bio
Although best remembered as a base thief, "Sliding" Billy Hamilton
also excelled at bat and in the outfield. His 937 career stolen
bases and single-season total of 115 in 1891 stood as National
League records for almost 80 years. Hamilton remains one of only
three players whose runs scored (1,691) exceeded his games played
(1,578). He hit better than .300 in 12 successive seasons en route
to a career mark of .344.
Quote
"I never saw a runner get a lead off first base like Billy."
— Jack Carney, 1889
Did You Know... that Billy Hamilton set the major league
record for most stolen bases in one game (seven) on August 31, 1894?
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