Providence a major league city? At one time, Providence was a major league power. Although the Grays, as they were called, lasted only eight seasons (1878 to 1885), they won two pennants and produced some of the game's finest stars.
The 1879 club was especially memorable, for its roster included three future Hall of Famers: right fielder "Orator Jim" O'Rourke batted .348, pitcher John M. Ward won 47 games, losing only 17, and shortstop George Wright, who doubled as manager, led his club to a 59-25 record. In capturing that first pennant in 1879, Wright's Providence club beat out Boston's defending champions...managed by his equally famous brother, Harry.
ELSEWHERE IN BASEBALL
Cincinnati's Will White pitches 75 complete games and 680 innings, both still major league records.
Thomas Edison perfects the incandescent light bulb Oct. 21.