Today In Brewer History: Happy Birthday, Hugh Duffy

On this day in 1866, Hugh Duffy was born in Cranston, Rhode Island. Duffy played his first major league game in 1888 as a member of the Chicago White Stockings (the team that would later become the Cubs), and had played in games for four teams in three leagues when he signed on as player-manager of the American League's 1901 Milwaukee Brewers.

Duffy only appeared in 79 of the Brewers' 137 games but made his appearances count: He hit .302/.341/.439 in 314 plate appearances. The Brewers went 48-89 and finished last in the eight team AL.

Following the season the Brewers moved to St. Louis to become the Browns but Duffy remained in Milwaukee: He managed the Western League's Milwaukee Creams for two seasons and won a league title in 1903. He returned to the majors in 1904 as a player-manager for the Phillies and was there for three years.

Away from Milwaukee, Duffy is perhaps best down for his incredible 1894 season. As a member of the Boston Beaneaters (Braves) he posted a .440/.502/.694 batting line, leading the NL in hits (237), doubles (51) and home runs (18). Duffy was inducted into the Hall of Fame by the Old Timers Committee in 1945.

Hugh Duffy would have turned 145 today.