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Rhode Island played a significant role in the early days of professional baseball, particularly in the late 19th century. The state’s involvement in the sport was marked by innovation, excellence, and a passion for the game.
Early Professional Teams
In 1877, the Providence Rhode Islanders were part of the New England Association, one of the earliest professional baseball leagues in the country. This marked the beginning of Rhode Island’s rich baseball heritage, which would go on to include some remarkable achievements.
The Providence Grays
From 1878 to 1885, the Providence Grays were a Major League Baseball team and a member of the National League. They played their home games at the Messer Street Grounds in the Olneyville neighborhood of Providence. During their time in the National League, the Grays achieved great success, winning the league title twice, in 1879 and 1884.
National League Success
The Providence Grays’ success in the National League was not limited to their two league titles. They also won the first World Series in 1884, defeating the New York Metropolitans of the American Association. This achievement cemented their place in baseball history and demonstrated their commitment to excellence.
Innovation
The Providence Grays were also known for their innovative approach to the game. In 1879, they became the first team in baseball history to install a screen behind home plate to protect fans from foul balls. They also broke tradition by adopting gray flannel instead of white for their home uniforms, which led to their “Grays” nickname.
Notable Players and Events
The Providence Grays’ short history included some remarkable achievements, such as John Montgomery Ward’s second perfect game in MLB history (1880), a no-hitter by Charles Radbourne (1883), and Charlie Sweeney striking out 19 batters in a nine-inning game (1884). They also hold the record for the largest score in a shutout victory, 28-0 against the Philadelphia Phillies in 1883.
Minor League Presence
After the National League team folded in 1885, the name “Providence Grays” continued with several minor league teams in the Eastern League and the New England League between 1886 and 1949. Notably, Babe Ruth played for the 1914 version of the Grays, and the 1926 Providence Grays were Eastern League champions. Yogi Berra also played for the Providence Grays while in the Navy (1948-1949).
Other Early Professional Teams
Besides the Grays, other early professional teams in Rhode Island included the Pawtucket Maroons (NE League in 1894), Pawtucket Phenoms (NE League from 1895-97), Newport Colts (NE League in 1897-98), Pawtucket Tigers (NE League in 1898), Woonsocket Speeders (Colonial League in 1914), and Pawtucket Tigers again (Colonial League in 1914-15).
Early Semi-Professional Baseball
Even before the formation of the National League franchise, Rhode Island was considered a “hotbed of baseball in the 1870s” with many notable amateur clubs and Brown University’s strong team. The semi-pro “Rhode Islanders” were formed in 1875, and their success led to the National League awarding Providence a franchise.
Legacy
Rhode Island’s rich baseball heritage is a testament to the state’s passion for the sport. From the Providence Grays’ innovative approach to the game to the notable achievements of players like Babe Ruth and Yogi Berra, the state’s contribution to baseball history is undeniable. Today, Rhode Island remains a hub for baseball enthusiasts, with a thriving minor league scene and a continued love for the game.