The first professional team, the Cincinnati Red Stockings, took the field May 4. By playing as professionals, the Cincinnatians gave baseball a new stature and respectability. Doing so also allowed Harry Wright, the club's organizer (who had received $1,200 annually for his organizational and playing talents since 1865) to recruit the best players. With a roster of 12 and a payroll of $9,300, Wright turned the Reds of 1869 into the best baseball team in the country.

The team's star was Harry's brother, George Wright, who also commanded the top salary, $1,400. Pitcher Asa Brainard, formerly an insurance salesman, earned $1,100 and third baseman Fred Waterman received $1,000. Most of the other players got salaries of $800.

This lineup of the nation's best baseball talent rolled through its 1869 touring schedule with ease. Playing against all amateur comers, the Reds won between 56 and 64 times that season -- depending on which source you believe -- and did not lose a single game.

ELSEWHERE IN BASEBALL

With the Aug. 27 game tied after five innings, Troy players walk off the field in an effort to avoid defeat. Cincinnati claims a forfeit victory, its closest brush with a loss.

IN THE WORLD

The Golden Spike is driven May 10, completing construction of the Transcontinental Railroad.